Cook Salary in Charleston, SC
Cooks in Charleston, SC, in 2025, earn approximately $17.10 per hour, which translates to about $684.00 per week, $2,964.00 per month, and $35,568.00 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Charleston is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating promising job opportunities and increasing need in the local culinary industry.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Charleston, SC?
The salary for a Cook in Charleston varies depending on experience and skill set, but here is an overview based on typical levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.22 | $448.80 | $1,940.80 | $23,898.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.10 | $684.00 | $2,949.60 | $35,568.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $26.06 | $1,042.40 | $4,509.07 | $54,204.80 |
Do Cooks in Charleston Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is primarily behind the scenes preparing food. Their income mainly comes from their salary or hourly wage, rather than gratuities.
Cook Salary in Charleston vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of about $16.10 per hour, or roughly $33,488 annually.
In Charleston, Cooks earn slightly more than the national average, at $17.10 per hour and $35,568 annually, reflecting the local market and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Charleston for Cooks
Looking at nearby areas, Cook salaries include:
- Mount Pleasant: $17.42 per hour
- Myrtle Beach: $15.03 per hour
Mount Pleasant offers the highest pay among nearby cities, while Myrtle Beach’s rates are somewhat lower.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Charleston?
Several factors affect how much a Cook can earn in Charleston, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Cooks with refined culinary techniques typically earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale or fine dining restaurants usually offers better pay than casual or fast food venues.
- Specialized Skills: Knowledge of cuisines, knife skills, and kitchen efficiency can influence salary.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Night or weekend shifts might offer premium pay or shift differentials.
- Local Economy and Demand: Charleston’s growing food scene supports competitive wages.
How To Become a Cook in Charleston
To start a career as a Cook in Charleston, consider the following steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Education Programs: Institutions like the Culinary Institute of Charleston and Trident Technical College offer comprehensive programs that build foundational skills and culinary knowledge.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe are essential for food handling safety and often required by employers.
- Pursue Professional Certifications: The Certified Culinarian (CC) credential from the American Culinary Federation can enhance your qualifications.
- Gain Hands-On Experience: Apprenticeships and entry-level kitchen jobs provide practical skills and exposure.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Charleston
Some notable employers seeking skilled Cooks in Charleston include:
- Halls Chophouse
- Husk Restaurant
- The Ordinary
Establishments That Cooks in Charleston Work At
Cooks in Charleston typically find employment in various establishment types, each impacting salary levels:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Offers steady work with modest pay scales appropriate for entry to mid-level Cooks.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Provide opportunities for higher wages and prestige, often requiring specialized culinary skills.
- Fast Casual Chains: Tend to pay moderate wages but offer fast-paced environments.
- Hotels and Catering Services: May offer competitive salaries and benefits due to scale and volume.
The variety in establishments allows Cooks to choose working conditions that fit their career goals and desired compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Charleston for Cooks
If you are interested in roles similar to Cook, consider related jobs that might suit your skills and career aspirations:
These include Head Chef, Commis Chef, and Line Cook positions, each involving culinary skills with varying responsibilities and pay scales.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Charleston
Cooks should familiarize themselves with labor laws and tax requirements to ensure compliance and protect their rights:
- Information on federal labor laws can be found on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- State-specific regulations and licensing requirements are available at the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation site.