Cook in Philadelphia, PA
Cooks in Philadelphia, PA, in 2025, earn approximately $15.25 per hour, which translates to about $610.00 per week, $2,643.33 per month, and $31,720.00 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Philadelphia is growing at a rate of 6% per year, indicating a positive outlook with increasing job opportunities in the culinary field in the area.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Philadelphia, PA?
The salary of a Cook in Philadelphia depends on experience and skill level, with entry-level workers earning less and top performers earning more. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.00 | $480.00 | $2,080.00 | $24,960.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.25 | $610.00 | $2,643.33 | $31,720.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.50 | $740.00 | $3,203.33 | $38,480.00 |
Do Cooks in Philadelphia Earn Tips?
Cooks typically do not earn tips as their work is mostly behind the scenes in food preparation. Their income is generally based on hourly wages or salary without additional gratuities.
Cook Salary in Philadelphia, PA vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn about $14.50 per hour or approximately $30,160 annually.
Compared to this, Cooks in Philadelphia earn slightly more, with average hourly wages at $15.25 and annual salaries around $31,720. Factors such as local demand and cost of living may contribute to this difference.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Philadelphia for Cooks
Some areas near Philadelphia offer higher wages to Cooks:
- Center City: $16.50 per hour
- University City: $17.00 per hour
Cooks working in University City can expect to earn the highest wages among the nearby locations, followed closely by those in Center City.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Philadelphia?
Several factors can affect how much a Cook earns in Philadelphia:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Cooks generally receive higher pay, especially those skilled in specialized cuisine or kitchen techniques.
- Type of Establishment: Working in fine dining or upscale restaurants typically provides higher salaries compared to fast food or casual dining venues.
- Certifications and Training: Cooks with formal culinary education or certifications may command better wages.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Working night shifts or holidays can come with pay premiums.
- Demand in Local Market: Areas with higher demand for culinary services can offer more competitive pay rates.
How To Become a Cook in Philadelphia
Starting a career as a Cook in Philadelphia can be facilitated by several practical steps:
- Education and Training: Enroll in culinary programs such as those at The Restaurant School at Walnut Hill College which offers comprehensive culinary arts programs with hands-on training in Philadelphia, or the Community College of Philadelphia Culinary Arts Program providing associate degrees and certificates with practical experience.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification, a nationally recognized credential ensuring knowledge of food safety practices, and the Philadelphia Food Establishment Personnel Certification required by the city enhance employability.
- Gain Experience: Starting in entry-level kitchen positions and striving to gain experience through various culinary roles.
- Networking and Job Search: Engage with local culinary communities and seek employment at reputable establishments.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Philadelphia
Some well-known employers in Philadelphia looking for qualified Cooks include:
- Garces Group
- Starr Restaurants
- Vetri Family
Establishments That Cooks in Philadelphia Work At
Cooks in Philadelphia find employment across a variety of establishment types:
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: Often provide steady work with moderate pay scales.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Typically offer higher wages due to skill requirements and customer expectations.
- Catering Services and Hotels: Can provide diverse work experiences and sometimes better compensation and benefits.
The type of establishment strongly influences salary, with upscale venues generally paying higher wages than fast food or casual dining spots.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Philadelphia for Cooks
For those interested in similar job roles, related careers in Philadelphia include the following:
These roles include Line Cook, Commis Chef, and Prep Cook, each sharing culinary skills, kitchen duties, and potentially different pay levels.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Philadelphia
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is crucial for Cooks working in Philadelphia.
- For state labor laws and regulations, visit the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry.
- The City of Philadelphia official website offers resources on local employment regulations and worker protections.
- For overarching federal laws, U.S. Department of Labor provides detailed information.