Cook Salary in San Francisco, CA
Cooks in San Francisco, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $23.38 per hour, which translates to about $935.20 per week, $4,052.53 per month, and $48,630.40 per year.
The demand for Cooks in San Francisco is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job outlook in the city's culinary industry.
How Much Does a Cook Make in San Francisco, CA?
The salary of a Cook in San Francisco varies depending on experience and employer. Below is a breakdown of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $19.18 | $767.20 | $3,319.47 | $39,833.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $23.38 | $935.20 | $4,052.53 | $48,630.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $30.99 | $1,239.60 | $5,367.80 | $64,459.20 |
Do Cooks in San Francisco Earn Tips?
Cooks typically do not earn tips as they work behind the scenes preparing meals rather than engaging directly with customers. Their earnings usually come solely from their wages.
Cook Salary in San Francisco vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $16.00 per hour, which amounts to roughly $33,280 per year.
In comparison, Cooks in San Francisco earn significantly more, with an average of $23.38 per hour and $48,630.40 annually. This is influenced by the higher cost of living and the vibrant culinary scene in the city.
Highest-Paying Areas Near San Francisco for Cooks
Nearby areas offer varying salaries for Cooks:
- Palo Alto: $26.43 per hour
- San Jose: $21.74 per hour
Cooks employed in Palo Alto earn notably more compared to those in San Jose and even San Francisco itself, reflecting regional cost differentials and demand.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in San Francisco?
Several factors play a role in determining the salary of a Cook in San Francisco. These include:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Cooks with specialized culinary skills can command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels generally offers better wages than casual dining or fast-food venues.
- Certifications and Training: Possessing culinary education or food safety certifications can boost earning potential.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Night or weekend shifts may include differential pay increasing overall earnings.
- Location Specifics: Salaries reflect local living costs and employer demand within San Francisco and the surrounding area.
How To Become a Cook in San Francisco
Becoming a Cook in San Francisco involves a combination of education, certification, and experience:
- Formal Culinary Programs: Enroll in professional culinary programs such as those at San Francisco Cooking School, which offers hands-on training and industry exposure, or City College of San Francisco Culinary Arts and Hospitality Studies, providing comprehensive culinary education with associate degrees and certificates.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Earning certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and the California Food Handler Card is essential, as these validate knowledge of safe food handling practices.
- Gain Practical Experience: Starting in entry-level kitchen positions or apprenticeships helps develop cooking skills and advance within the field.
- Networking and Continuous Learning: Engaging with the local culinary community and participating in additional courses can open opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in San Francisco
Some prominent employers in San Francisco currently hiring Cooks include:
- The French Laundry
- Zuni Café
- Tartine Bakery
Establishments That Cooks in San Francisco Work At
Cooks find employment in various types of food service establishments such as:
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Generally offer moderate pay and fast-paced environments.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Usually provide higher salaries due to more complex culinary requirements.
- Hotels and Catering Services: These often compensate well and may provide benefits.
- Bakeries and Cafés: May offer diverse experience but typically lower pay than high-end restaurants.
The type of establishment can significantly impact a Cook’s salary, with fine dining and hotel kitchens often paying premium wages.
Related Hospitality Jobs in San Francisco for Cooks
If you’re exploring careers similar to that of a Cook, consider the following related positions:
These include Line Cook, Prep Cook, and Chef roles, offering varying responsibilities and salary ranges within the culinary field.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in San Francisco
Cooks should be aware of labor laws and tax obligations to ensure compliance and understand their rights:
- For federal employment regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor.
- California-specific labor laws and worker protections are detailed at the California Department of Industrial Relations.
- Local San Francisco employment ordinances and resources can be found on the City and County of San Francisco official website.