Cook Salary in Rockford, IL
Cooks in Rockford, IL, in 2026, earn approximately $14.90 per hour, which translates to about $596.00 per week, $2,582.67 per month, and $30,992.00 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Rockford is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities within the culinary and hospitality sectors in the area.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Rockford, IL?
The salary of a Cook in Rockford, IL can vary based on experience level and employer type. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings for Cooks at different career stages.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.50 | $500.00 | $2,166.67 | $26,000.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.90 | $596.00 | $2,581.87 | $30,992.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.50 | $700.00 | $3,033.33 | $36,400.00 |
Do Cooks in Rockford Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is primarily in the kitchen without direct customer interaction. Their compensation mainly comes from their base salary or hourly wages.
Cook Salary in Rockford vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $15.50 per hour, amounting to approximately $32,240 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Rockford earn slightly less, with an average of $14.90 per hour and $30,992 annually.
This difference may be influenced by local cost of living, employer size, and establishment type.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Rockford for Cooks
Nearby Rockford areas offer varied wages for Cooks:
- Downtown Rockford: $16.50 per hour
- East Rockford: $17.00 per hour
Cooks working in East Rockford tend to earn the highest wages, followed closely by those in Downtown Rockford.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Rockford?
Several factors can affect how much a Cook earns in Rockford:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Cooks with refined culinary techniques usually command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants or specialized kitchens tend to offer better pay than casual or fast-food settings.
- Certifications and Training: Formal culinary education or certifications can increase earning potential significantly.
- Work Hours and Shift Differentials: Working holidays, weekends, or evenings might provide additional compensation.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Higher demand or cost of living in certain Rockford neighborhoods can lead to increased wages.
How To Become a Cook in Rockford
Becoming a Cook in Rockford involves several key steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Institutions like Rock Valley College offer comprehensive Culinary Arts Programs with hands-on training in cooking techniques, kitchen management, and food safety.
- Pursue Additional Education: Nearby Elgin Community College provides a Culinary Arts & Hospitality Program combining classroom learning with practical experience.
- Obtain Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification educate about safe food handling and are often required.
- Consider Professional Credentials: The Certified Culinarian (CC) Credential from the American Culinary Federation demonstrates fundamental culinary skills and kitchen operations knowledge.
- Gain Work Experience: Practice by working in kitchens or as apprentices to build skills and industry connections.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Rockford
Several notable employers in Rockford actively hire Cooks, including:
- Olive Garden
- OSF HealthCare
- IHOP
Establishments That Cooks in Rockford Work At
Cooks in Rockford find employment in a variety of food service establishments, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often pay moderate wages but provide consistent work and opportunities to develop skills.
- Fast Casual and Quick-Service Restaurants: Generally offer lower pay but higher volume of work, which can be good for experience.
- Hotels and Healthcare Facilities: These may offer better benefits and pay scales due to institutional budgets and standards.
- Specialty and Ethnic Eateries: Can offer niche experiences and sometimes higher wages for specialized cooking skills.
The type and prestige of the establishment can considerably affect a Cook’s overall salary.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Rockford for Cooks
If you are exploring roles related to Cook, consider these similar positions that utilize culinary skills and offer diverse career paths:
These include Line Cook, Prep Cook, and Head Chef, each providing pathways for advancement and specialization in the culinary field.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Rockford
Cooks should be aware of various labor laws and tax regulations that apply to their employment:
- For federal labor standards and worker protections, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- State-specific labor information and employment resources can be found on the Illinois Department of Employment Security website.
- Local guidelines, regulations, and city services are available on the Rockford, IL official government website.