Cook Salary in Oklahoma City, OK
Cooks in Oklahoma City, OK, in 2025, earn approximately $13.20 per hour, which translates to about $528.00 per week, $2,288.00 per month, and $27,456.00 per year.
The job market for Cooks in Oklahoma City is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating increasing demand for culinary professionals in the region’s food service industry.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Oklahoma City, OK?
The salary of a Cook in Oklahoma City can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general overview of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,436.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,933.33 | $35,360.00 |
Do Cooks in Oklahoma City Earn Tips?
Cooks typically do not earn tips as their work is mostly behind the scenes in kitchen preparation and cooking. Their income primarily comes from their wages or salary without additional tip earnings.
Cook Salary in Oklahoma City vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $16.10 per hour, which translates to roughly $33,488.00 annually.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Oklahoma City earn less, with an average hourly wage of $13.20 and an annual salary of about $27,456.00.
This difference may be attributed to cost of living variations and local industry factors in Oklahoma City.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Oklahoma City for Cooks
Nearby areas with relatively higher Cook salaries include:
- Edmond: $13.54 per hour
- Norman: $13.48 per hour
These locations provide slightly higher wages compared to Oklahoma City, which may attract Cooks looking for better pay within close proximity.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Oklahoma City?
Several factors can affect how much a Cook earns in Oklahoma City:
- Experience and Skill Level: Cooks with more years of practice and specialized culinary skills typically earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale restaurants, hotels, or corporate dining can increase salary potential compared to fast food or casual dining.
- Culinary Certifications: Possessing certifications such as ServSafe or Certified Culinarian can boost earning opportunities.
- Shift Times: Night or weekend shifts sometimes offer higher pay rates.
- Location within the City: Wages can vary between neighborhoods and districts based on the cost of living and demand.
How To Become a Cook in Oklahoma City
Starting a career as a Cook in Oklahoma City involves several steps to gain skills and qualifications:
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Institutions like Metro Technology Centers in Oklahoma City and Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology in Okmulgee offer comprehensive culinary training that combines practical skills with theoretical knowledge.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are widely recognized and often required by employers.
- Consider Additional Credentials: The Certified Culinarian (CC) credential from the American Culinary Federation validates fundamental culinary skills and is respected in the industry.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working in entry-level kitchen roles or internships helps build hands-on experience, improving job prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Oklahoma City
Several well-known businesses in Oklahoma City hire Cooks, including:
- P.F. Chang's
- RH
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Cowboy Chicken
- Tommy Bahama
Establishments That Cooks in Oklahoma City Work At
Cooks commonly work in various types of establishments such as casual dining restaurants, fast casual eateries, hotels, and catering companies. The nature of the establishment plays a major role in earnings.
For example, upscale restaurants and hotels generally pay higher salaries compared to fast food outlets due to differing customer expectations and menu complexities.
The environment and scale of operation can also influence opportunities for advancement and benefits.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Oklahoma City for Cooks
If you're exploring careers similar to Cook, here are some related roles often found in the hospitality industry:
These include roles such as Line Cook, Commis Chef, and Kitchen Manager, which share culinary responsibilities and offer varied paths within kitchen operations.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Oklahoma City
Cooks should be aware of federal and state labor laws that govern working conditions, wages, and taxes in Oklahoma City.
- For detailed information on state labor laws, visit the Oklahoma government website.
- For federal workplace standards and labor regulations, see the U.S. Department of Labor website.