Cook Salary in Rochester, MN
Cooks in Rochester, MN, in 2025, earn approximately $18.80 per hour, which translates to about $752.00 per week, $3,258.67 per month, and $39,104.00 per year.
The outlook for Cooks in Rochester looks promising, with job demand growing at around 5% per year. This positive growth signals an expanding need for skilled culinary professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Rochester, MN?
The salary of a Cook in Rochester varies significantly based on experience and expertise. Below is an overview of earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.74 | $469.60 | $2,033.07 | $24,403.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.80 | $752.00 | $3,258.67 | $39,104.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $30.11 | $1,204.40 | $5,209.87 | $62,628.80 |
Do Cooks in Rochester Earn Tips?
Cooks typically do not earn tips. Their compensation mainly comes from their hourly wage or salary since they work behind the scenes rather than directly serving customers.
Cook Salary in Rochester vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of about $16.00 per hour, which translates to roughly $33,280.00 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Rochester earn a higher wage, around $18.80 per hour and $39,104.00 annually. This reflects a competitive job market and cost of living adjustments in the region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Rochester for Cooks
Salary rates for Cooks can differ in nearby areas:
- Downtown: $19.50 per hour
- Northwest Rochester: $18.00 per hour
Those working in Downtown Rochester tend to earn somewhat more than in Northwest Rochester.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Rochester?
Several factors impact the salary a Cook can expect in Rochester:
- Experience Level: More experienced Cooks, especially those with specialized culinary skills, command higher wages.
- Skills and Certifications: Skills such as menu knowledge, food preparation techniques, and food safety certifications can increase earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants and large healthcare facilities may pay higher wages than casual or fast-food outlets.
- Shift and Working Hours: Evening or weekend shifts may offer shift differentials or bonuses.
- Local Market Demand: Economic conditions and demand for culinary professionals can affect salaries.
How To Become a Cook in Rochester
Building a successful career as a Cook in Rochester involves several steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Education Programs: Consider local programs such as the Rochester Community and Technical College Culinary Arts Program or the Minnesota State College Southeast Culinary Program. These offer comprehensive training in culinary skills, kitchen management, and food safety.
- Earn Food Safety Certification: Obtaining a ServSafe Food Handler Certification is often required and demonstrates knowledge of safe food handling practices.
- Pursue Professional Certification: The Certified Culinarian (CC) credential from the American Culinary Federation is an entry-level certification that enhances job prospects.
- Gain Hands-On Experience: Working in various kitchens, from casual eateries to hospitals, helps develop practical skills.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Rochester
Leading employers frequently hiring Cooks in Rochester include:
- Mayo Clinic
- Morrison Healthcare
- Oak View Group
- Olmsted Medical Center
Establishments That Cooks in Rochester Work At
Cooks in Rochester are employed across a broad range of establishments:
- Casual Restaurants: These may offer moderate wages, with busy kitchens requiring versatile Cooks.
- Fast Casual Outlets: Often pay entry-level wages but offer fast-paced work environments.
- Healthcare Facilities and Large Institutions: Such workplaces usually provide more stable employment and higher wages.
- Hotels and Catering Services: May have higher wage scales due to complexity and event catering needs.
The type of establishment strongly influences salary and benefits, with larger or more prestigious places tending to offer better pay.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Rochester for Cooks
If you are exploring roles similar to Cook, consider these related positions that share key skills and responsibilities.
This includes Line Cook, Chef de Partie, and Head Chef roles, all of which build on culinary expertise and leadership in the kitchen.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Rochester
Understanding the legal and tax framework is essential for Cooks working in Rochester.
- State labor laws and employment regulations can be found through the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry.
- Federal tax information and resources are available at the Internal Revenue Service.
- Local government and employment resources can be accessed via the City of Rochester Official Website.