Cook Salary in Phoenix, AZ
Cooks in Phoenix, AZ, in 2025, earn approximately $18.26 per hour, which translates to about $730.40 per week, $3,165.07 per month, and $37,980.80 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Phoenix is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and expanding opportunities for culinary professionals in this vibrant city.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Phoenix, AZ?
The salary of a Cook in Phoenix can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general look at earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.70 | $588.00 | $2,540.00 | $30,496.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.26 | $730.40 | $3,165.07 | $37,980.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.41 | $936.40 | $4,041.20 | $48,732.80 |
Do Cooks in Phoenix Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is mostly behind the scenes in food preparation rather than direct customer service. Their earnings typically come from wages or salary only.
Cook Salary in Phoenix vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $16 per hour, translating to about $33,280 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Phoenix earn a higher wage at approximately $18.26 per hour and $37,980.80 annually, reflecting the city's demand for culinary professionals.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Phoenix for Cooks
Nearby areas offer some variation in Cook salaries:
- Scottsdale: $18.67 per hour
- Tempe: $18.24 per hour
Scottsdale offers the highest pay among nearby areas, slightly surpassing Phoenix’s average Cook salary.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Phoenix?
Several key factors influence the salary of a Cook in Phoenix:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Cooks with advanced culinary skills typically command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale restaurants or hotels typically offers better compensation compared to fast food or casual dining.
- Certification and Training: Completion of culinary programs or food safety certifications can enhance earning potential.
- Shift and Hours: Working late shifts, weekends, or holidays may come with shift differentials or bonuses.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Phoenix’s growing food scene and living expenses also affect wages positively.
How To Become a Cook in Phoenix
Becoming a Cook in Phoenix involves several important steps to increase employment prospects and salary potential.
Education and Training: Programs like the Scottsdale Community College Culinary Arts Program and the Arizona Culinary Institute provide comprehensive culinary training with hands-on experience in modern kitchens.
Certification Requirements: Obtaining certifications such as the Maricopa County Food Service Worker Card and the nationally recognized ServSafe Certification is mandatory to ensure compliance with food safety and sanitation standards.
Gain Experience: Starting in entry-level kitchen positions or apprenticeships helps build practical skills and familiarity with kitchen operations.
Network and Job Search: Engaging with local culinary communities and pursuing job openings at a variety of food establishments can increase opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Phoenix
Some of the prominent employers actively hiring Cooks in the Phoenix area include:
- Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen
- Sodexo
- Terros
- The Grove Inc / Fresh Market
- Tempe Union High School District
Establishments That Cooks in Phoenix Work At
Cooks in Phoenix typically work across a variety of food service establishments including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer steady work with modest salaries; often suited for entry-level Cooks.
- Fast Casual Chains: These establishments usually have higher turnover but competitive wages for efficient staff.
- Hotels and Resorts: Typically provide higher salaries and benefits due to upscale clientele and expectations.
- Seafood and Specialty Restaurants: Usually pay better for skilled Cooks familiar with specific cuisines.
The type of establishment influences not only salary but also work environment and career growth opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Phoenix for Cooks
If you are interested in roles similar to Cook, here are some related hospitality positions that offer career alternatives and progression paths:
These include Line Cook, Commis Chef, and Chef de Partie positions that share culinary skills and offer different salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Phoenix
Cooks in Phoenix should be familiar with the labor laws and tax requirements that govern their work conditions and earnings.
- Visit the Arizona Department of Health Services for state health regulations and certifications.
- For local government resources and employment information, see Maricopa County Official Website.
- Consult the U.S. Department of Labor for federal labor laws and standards.