Cook Salary in Ontario, CA
Cooks in Ontario, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $20.82 per hour, which translates to about $832.80 per week, $3,608.80 per month, and $43,305.60 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Ontario is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job outlook for those entering or continuing in the culinary field within this region.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Ontario, CA?
The salary of a Cook in Ontario varies by experience level and employer, with entry-level positions earning less and top earners achieving the highest pay. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.82 | $832.80 | $3,608.80 | $43,305.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $24.11 | $964.40 | $4,156.53 | $49,052.80 |
Do Cooks in Ontario Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips since their primary role is kitchen-based and typically behind the scenes, with little direct customer interaction. Their compensation mainly comes from their hourly wage or salary.
Cook Salary in Ontario vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of about $16.02 per hour and around $33,321.60 per year.
Compared to this, Cooks in Ontario earn significantly more, averaging $20.82 per hour and $43,305.60 annually. This difference reflects regional cost of living and local economic factors that influence wages in California.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Ontario for Cooks
Nearby areas offer varying pay rates for Cooks:
- Claremont: $42.41 per hour
- Los Angeles: $41.44 per hour
These nearby cities provide higher hourly wages, which may attract experienced cooks willing to commute for better pay opportunities.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Ontario?
Several factors impact the salary of a Cook in Ontario:
- Experience and Skill Level: Cooks with more years of experience or specialized cooking skills command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in fine dining, upscale restaurants, or hotels tends to offer higher pay compared to fast food or casual dining.
- Certifications: Culinary certifications and food safety knowledge can boost earning potential.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening or weekend shifts may come with shift differentials increasing pay.
- Location: Proximity to larger metropolitan areas or affluent neighborhoods can impact pay rates.
How To Become a Cook in Ontario
To become a Cook in Ontario, consider these key steps:
- Complete Culinary Education Programs: Programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Chaffey College provide practical training in cooking techniques, kitchen management, and food safety.
- Consider Hospitality Management Studies: The Hospitality Management Program at California State University, San Bernardino offers courses focused on food and beverage management and prepares candidates for supervisory roles.
- Obtain Required Certifications: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is widely recognized and often required to ensure understanding of food safety practices.
- Advance Skills with Professional Certification: The Certified Culinarian (CC) credential from the American Culinary Federation demonstrates proficiency in culinary fundamentals and enhances employment prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Ontario
Some major employers looking for Cooks in Ontario include:
- Ontario HealthCare Center
- Hilton
- Farmer Boys
Establishments That Cooks in Ontario Work At
Cooks typically find work in various types of establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer steady work but generally lower pay scales.
- Fast Casual Establishments: Often have fast-paced environments with competitive but moderate wages.
- Hotels and Resorts: These often provide opportunities for higher salaries and benefits.
- Healthcare Facilities and Cafeterias: Cooks may earn consistent wages working in institutional kitchens.
The type of establishment directly influences salary, as higher-end or specialized venues often reward skilled cooks with better compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Ontario for Cooks
If you want to explore career paths related to Cook positions, consider the following roles:
These correspond to Line Cook, Head Chef, and Kitchen Manager positions, each offering distinct responsibilities and salary ranges in the culinary field.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Ontario
Cooks should stay informed about labor laws and tax guidelines that govern their employment in California.
- Refer to the California Department of Industrial Relations - State labor laws and regulations for state-specific employment rules.
- The Employment Development Department provides state employment services and information relevant to workers and employers.
- For federal labor laws and resources, visit the U.S. Department of Labor.