Cook Salary in Palm Coast, FL
Cooks in Palm Coast, FL, in 2025, earn approximately $18.25 per hour, which translates to about $730.00 per week, $3,163.33 per month, and $37,960.00 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Palm Coast is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the local culinary and hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Palm Coast, FL?
Cook salaries in Palm Coast vary based on experience levels and work setting. Here is an overview of earnings across different levels of expertise.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.00 | $640.00 | $2,773.33 | $33,280.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.40 | $776.00 | $3,353.33 | $40,352.00 |
Do Cooks in Palm Coast Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips since their role involves food preparation behind the scenes rather than direct interaction with customers. Their earnings primarily come from their wages or salary.
Cook Salary in Palm Coast vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of about $16.00 per hour, translating to approximately $33,280.00 per year.
Comparatively, Cooks in Palm Coast make slightly more hourly at $18.25 per hour and an annual salary around $37,960.00. This reflects the region’s cost of living and demand for culinary professionals.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Palm Coast for Cooks
Nearby areas pay competitive rates for Cook positions:
- Hammock Beach: $18.50 per hour
- Palm Harbor: $18.00 per hour
Those looking for higher salaries in Cook roles might consider opportunities in Hammock Beach, where pay slightly exceeds that of Palm Coast.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Palm Coast?
Several factors influence Cook salaries in Palm Coast:
- Experience: More years working as a Cook generally lead to increased pay and job opportunities.
- Skill Level: Specialized cooking skills, such as knowledge of different cuisines or kitchen techniques, can improve salary prospects.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants, resorts, or hotels tend to offer better pay compared to fast-food or casual dining locations.
- Certifications: Food safety and culinary certifications may enhance employability and wages.
- Shift Timing: Working night or weekend shifts can come with added compensation.
How To Become a Cook in Palm Coast
Starting a career as a Cook in Palm Coast can be achieved through several practical steps:
- Complete Culinary Education: Programs like the Flagler Palm Coast High School Culinary Program provide foundational training in cooking and kitchen management.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is highly valued and often required by employers in the food service industry.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level opportunities such as kitchen assistant or prep cook can help build skills.
- Keep Learning and Advancing: Expanding culinary knowledge through workshops and certifications will help progress your career.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Palm Coast
Key employers seeking Cooks in the Palm Coast area include:
- AdventHealth Palm Coast
- Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa
- Brookdale Palm Coast
Establishments That Cooks in Palm Coast Work At
Cooks typically find employment in a variety of food service settings including:
- Casual Restaurants: These may offer a steady work environment with moderate pay.
- Fast-Casual Dining: Generally involves fast-paced environments with competitive wages.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often provide higher salaries and benefits due to upscale service expectations.
- Catering and Banquets: Opportunities might come with variable hours but possible premium pay for events.
The type of establishment can significantly impact a Cook’s salary and work-life balance in Palm Coast.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Palm Coast for Cooks
If you are interested in careers related to the Cook position, here are a few roles to consider:
These include Line Cook, Chef de Partie, and Head Chef roles, which share related culinary skills and vary in responsibility and salary.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Palm Coast
Understanding labor laws and taxes is crucial for Cooks working in Palm Coast.
- For federal labor laws and regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For state-specific labor laws and employment resources, see the State of Florida's official website.