Cook Salary in Portland, OR
Cooks in Portland, OR, in 2025, earn approximately $19.94 per hour, which translates to about $797.60 per week, $3,456.27 per month, and $41,475.20 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Portland is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a favorable job market and increasing opportunities in the food service industry locally.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Portland, OR?
The salary of a Cook in Portland varies based on experience and employer, but the following breakdown shows typical earnings:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.31 | $652.40 | $2,826.93 | $33,920.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.94 | $797.60 | $3,456.27 | $41,475.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $24.37 | $974.80 | $4,199.47 | $50,689.60 |
Do Cooks in Portland Earn Tips?
Cooks typically do not earn tips as their primary role is in food preparation rather than direct customer service. Their compensation generally comprises their base salary without tip income.
Cook Salary in Portland vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of $19.94 per hour, equating to roughly $41,475.20 per year.
Cooks in Portland, OR earn about the national average salary, reflecting a competitive wage aligned with broader industry standards across the United States.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Portland for Cooks
Nearby cities offer varying wages for Cooks:
- Beaverton: $20.12 per hour
- Hillsboro: $18.09 per hour
Beaverton offers a slightly higher hourly wage than Portland itself, making it a notable location for Cooks seeking better pay.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Portland?
Several factors affect how much a Cook earns in Portland:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Cooks or those with specialized culinary skills tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels usually offers better pay compared to casual or fast-food venues.
- Certifications and Training: Completion of culinary education programs or food safety certifications can boost earning potential.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts may include shift differentials increasing overall compensation.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Portland’s growing food scene and living costs influence wage levels.
How To Become a Cook in Portland
Building a career as a Cook in Portland can be achieved through various steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Institutes like Oregon Culinary Institute offer comprehensive culinary arts programs including diplomas and associate degrees, focusing on hands-on and industry-relevant skills.
- Complete Community College Training: Portland Community College Culinary Arts Program provides a two-year Associate of Applied Science degree blending practical experience with theoretical knowledge.
- Obtain Mandatory Certifications: The Food Handler's Permit is required for all food service workers in Oregon, ensuring food safety practices. Additionally, earning a ServSafe Certification—a nationally recognized food safety training—is commonly required by employers.
- Gain Practical Kitchen Experience: Entry-level roles such as prep cook or kitchen porter provide opportunities to develop culinary skills on the job.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Portland
Some of the prominent employers recruiting Cooks in Portland include:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
- West Hills Health & Rehabilitation
- Cedar Hills Hospital
Establishments That Cooks in Portland Work At
Cooks in Portland find roles in a variety of food service settings such as casual dining, fast casual restaurants, institutional cafeterias, and hotels.
The type of establishment significantly impacts salary. For example, fast casual and casual dining generally offer moderate wages, while upscale and hotel kitchens often provide higher pay and opportunities for advancement.
Institutional settings such as hospitals typically pay consistently but might offer fewer tip opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Portland for Cooks
If you’re exploring careers related to the Cook role, here are some similar positions to consider:
These careers include Line Cook, Prep Cook, and Head Chef, offering related skill sets and various salary ranges within the culinary field.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Portland
Cooks should familiarize themselves with local and federal labor laws as well as tax regulations to ensure compliance and informed employment decisions.
- For state labor laws, visit the Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries.
- Federal labor laws and resources can be found on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For taxation and state revenue matters, see the Oregon Department of Revenue.