Cook Salary in Reno, NV
Cooks in Reno, NV, in 2025, earn approximately $18.10 per hour, which translates to about $724.00 per week, $3,137.33 per month, and $37,648.00 per year.
The job demand for Cooks in Reno is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and expanding opportunities in the local culinary scene.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Reno, NV?
The salary of a Cook in Reno varies by experience and skills. Below is an overview of earnings at different levels.
| 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) | $18.10 | $724.00 | $3,137.33 | $37,648.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $27.65 | $1,106.00 | $4,789.33 | $57,472.00 |
Do Cooks in Reno Earn Tips?
Cooks typically do not earn direct tips as they mostly work behind the scenes; their earnings mainly come from their base salary or hourly wage.
Cook Salary in Reno vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $16.00 per hour or about $33,280 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Reno earn more, with an average wage of $18.10 per hour and $37,648 annually, reflecting local demand and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Reno for Cooks
Nearby areas offer slightly different pay scales for Cooks:
- Minden: $19.02 per hour
- Gardnerville: $18.57 per hour
Minden offers the highest pay, slightly above Reno, while Gardnerville provides a competitive but a bit lower hourly wage.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Reno?
Experience and skill level are crucial factors influencing Cook salaries. More experienced Cooks who master various cooking techniques tend to earn higher wages.
Type of establishment also plays a major role. Cooks working in upscale restaurants or casinos in Reno may earn more compared to those in casual dining spots.
Certifications such as food safety training can increase employability and salary prospects.
The shift and hours worked influence pay — evening or weekend shifts sometimes command higher rates.
Finally, the local demand for culinary professionals can drive wages upward as businesses compete for qualified Cooks.
How To Become a Cook in Reno
Aspiring Cooks in Reno can take several steps to enter the profession:
- Enroll in culinary training programs such as the Truckee Meadows Community College Culinary Arts Program, which provides comprehensive hands-on experience.
- Consider specialized courses like those offered by the University of Nevada, Reno Extended Studies Culinary Courses to refine culinary skills.
- Obtain food safety certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification and the Nevada Food Manager Certification, which are essential for many employers.
- Gain practical experience by working in kitchens, starting as an assistant or prep cook.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Reno
Several well-known establishments in Reno actively hire Cooks, including:
- Grand Sierra Resort and Casino
- Schussboom Brewing Company
- P.F. Chang's
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Red Robin
Establishments That Cooks in Reno Work At
Cooks in Reno find opportunities in a variety of establishments:
- Casual dining restaurants: Offer steady work hours but tend to have more moderate pay scales.
- Fast casual spots: Often have a faster pace and can provide opportunities for advancement.
- Fine dining and upscale hotels: Typically provide higher pay and the chance to develop more advanced culinary skills.
- Casinos and resorts: Can offer competitive salaries and benefits due to the scale and prestige of the businesses.
Working at upscale or high-volume venues generally leads to better salary potential for Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Reno for Cooks
If you are considering related careers within the hospitality field, here are several roles closely connected to Cook positions.
These include Line Cook, Commis Chef, and Kitchen Supervisor roles, which share similar skills and pathways in the culinary industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Reno
Cooks should be aware of their rights and obligations under labor laws and tax regulations applicable in Reno and Nevada.
- For federal employment laws visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The State of Nevada's official website offers information about state-specific labor regulations and workplace rights.
- The City of Reno's official website provides local employment resources and guidelines.