Cook Salary in Salt Lake City, UT
Cooks in Salt Lake City, UT, in 2025, earn approximately $15.25 per hour, which translates to about $610.00 per week, $2,643.33 per month, and $31,720.00 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Salt Lake City is growing steadily at about 6% per year, reflecting a healthy and expanding job market for culinary professionals in the region.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Salt Lake City, UT?
The salary of a Cook in Salt Lake City can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general look at earnings across experience 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) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.50 | $740.00 | $3,196.67 | $38,480.00 |
Do Cooks in Salt Lake City Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work happens primarily behind the scenes in the kitchen, and their earnings are typically based solely on wages or salary.
Cook Salary in Salt Lake City vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which translates to about $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Salt Lake City earn slightly more, at about $15.25 per hour and $31,720 annually.
This increase may reflect regional cost of living and demand for culinary professionals in the Salt Lake City area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Salt Lake City for Cooks
Nearby areas show some variation in Cook salaries, with Sugar House paying the highest:
- Downtown: $16.50 per hour
- Sugar House: $17.00 per hour
Exploring opportunities in these neighborhoods could lead to better pay for Cooks willing to commute.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Salt Lake City?
Several key factors influence how much a Cook can earn in Salt Lake City:
- Experience Level: More seasoned Cooks typically command higher wages due to refined skills and efficiency.
- Skillset and Specialization: Expertise in various cuisines or cooking techniques can boost earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and hotels often pay better than casual dining or fast-food outlets.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Night shifts or weekend work might include differential pay increasing overall salary.
- Certifications and Education: Culinary training and food safety certifications can enhance job prospects and salary.
How To Become a Cook in Salt Lake City
Starting a career as a Cook in Salt Lake City involves several important steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Training Programs: Institutions like Salt Lake Community College Culinary Arts Program and Park City Culinary Institute offer comprehensive training including hands-on experience.
- Obtain Required Food Safety Permits: The Food Handler Permit is mandatory in Utah, ensuring knowledge of safe food handling.
- Get Certified in Food Safety: The nationally recognized ServSafe Certification is highly valued by employers in the culinary field.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level positions or apprenticeships provide vital kitchen experience and skill development.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Salt Lake City
Several prominent employers in Salt Lake City actively seek skilled Cooks:
- The Grand America Hotel
- Red Iguana
- Gourmandise The Bakery
Establishments That Cooks in Salt Lake City Work At
Cooks in Salt Lake City work across a variety of establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Typically provide steady hours and competitive wages based on experience.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: Often entry-level positions with moderate pay but opportunities for advancement.
- Hotels and Resort Kitchens: Usually offer higher salaries and benefits, reflecting the upscale clientele and volume.
- Catering and Specialty Bakeries: Pay can vary widely depending on the prestige and scale of the establishment.
The type of establishment significantly impacts earning potential, with luxury hotels and fine dining offering the highest salaries.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Salt Lake City for Cooks
If you are interested in careers related to being a Cook, consider exploring similar roles that offer different experiences and salary ranges.
These include Fry Cook, Line Cook, and Head Chef positions, each offering distinctive challenges and salary scales within culinary arts.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Salt Lake City
Cooks should familiarize themselves with labor laws and tax obligations to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- Refer to the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for comprehensive federal employment standards.
- The State of Utah's Department of Workforce Services website offers resources specific to the region.
- Additional local guidelines can be found on the Official website of Salt Lake City government.