Cook Salary in Rancho Cucamonga, CA
Cooks in Rancho Cucamonga, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $19.89 per hour, which translates to about $795.60 per week, $3,447.60 per month, and $41,371.20 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Rancho Cucamonga is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job outlook and expanding opportunities in the local culinary scene.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Rancho Cucamonga, CA?
The salary of a Cook in Rancho Cucamonga can vary depending on experience, skill level, and employer. Below is an overview of earnings for different experience levels in this position.
| 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) | $19.89 | $795.60 | $3,447.60 | $41,371.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.04 | $881.60 | $3,803.47 | $45,683.20 |
Do Cooks in Rancho Cucamonga Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips since their primary duties involve food preparation behind the scenes rather than direct customer service. Their earnings are typically from wages or salary alone.
Cook Salary in Rancho Cucamonga vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $16.00 per hour, translating to approximately $33,280 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Rancho Cucamonga earn significantly higher wages, with an average hourly rate of $19.89 and an annual income of approximately $41,371.20. This difference may reflect the local cost of living and demand for skilled culinary professionals.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Rancho Cucamonga for Cooks
Nearby areas offering higher pay for Cooks include:
- Victoria Gardens: $21.00 per hour
- Terra Vista: $20.50 per hour
Working in these neighborhoods might provide cooks with higher earning potential compared to salaries directly in Rancho Cucamonga.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Rancho Cucamonga?
Several factors can affect how much a Cook earns in Rancho Cucamonga:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced cooks or those proficient in specialty cuisines tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants or upscale hotels may offer better pay compared to fast food or casual dining venues.
- Certifications and Training: Completion of culinary programs or certifications like ServSafe Food Handler or Certified Culinarian can enhance earning potential.
- Shift and Hours: Working evening or holiday shifts may come with additional pay or bonuses.
- Local Economic Factors: Regional demand and the cost of living influence salary levels in the area.
How To Become a Cook in Rancho Cucamonga
To pursue a career as a Cook in Rancho Cucamonga, consider following these steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Training Programs: Institutions like Collins College of Hospitality Management at California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, and the Chaffey College Culinary Arts Program in Rancho Cucamonga provide solid culinary education.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensure knowledge of proper food safety practices, which is essential.
- Earn Professional Culinary Credentials: Certifications like the Certified Culinarian (CC) from the American Culinary Federation validate your skills and expertise.
- Gain Practical Experience: Start with entry-level cooking positions or apprenticeships to build hands-on skills.
- Develop Specialized Skills: Learn cuisines or techniques that are in demand to improve your job prospects and salary.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Rancho Cucamonga
Several well-known restaurant chains and dining establishments frequently hire Cooks in Rancho Cucamonga, including:
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Red Robin
- King's Fish House
- Chilis
- Yard House
Establishments That Cooks in Rancho Cucamonga Work At
Cooks commonly work in a variety of food service establishments, such as:
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Generally offer steady employment with modest wages; skill level requirements vary.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Often pay higher salaries requiring more specialized cooking techniques and presentation skills.
- Hotel and Resort Kitchens: May offer competitive pay and employee benefits.
- Catering Services and Institutional Food Prep: These roles can differ in pay scale depending on contract size and clientele.
The type of establishment plays a significant role in determining the salary and career advancement opportunities available to Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Rancho Cucamonga for Cooks
If you are interested in exploring related culinary roles similar to Cook, consider the following careers which utilize overlapping skills and may offer different salary potentials:
These include Line Cook, Prep Cook, and Commis Chef, roles that share culinary responsibilities but can vary in scope and compensation.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Rancho Cucamonga
Understanding labor laws and tax requirements is crucial for Cooks in Rancho Cucamonga to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- Consult the Federal website for the U.S. Department of Labor for information on federal labor laws and regulations.
- For state-specific labor laws and workplace standards, visit the California Department of Industrial Relations.
- Local government resources and regulations can be accessed at the official City of Rancho Cucamonga website.