Cook Salary in Santa Fe, NM
Cooks in Santa Fe, NM, in 2025, earn approximately $18.87 per hour, which translates to about $754.80 per week, $3,270.80 per month, and $39,249.60 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Santa Fe is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive job outlook and increasing opportunities in the local hospitality and food service industry.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Santa Fe, NM?
The salary of a Cook in Santa Fe varies based on experience and the employer. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings across entry-level to top earners.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.87 | $754.80 | $3,270.80 | $39,249.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $31.98 | $1,279.20 | $5,525.60 | $66,403.20 |
Do Cooks in Santa Fe Earn Tips?
Cooks typically do not earn tips directly since their work is mostly behind the scenes in food preparation. However, in some establishments, especially smaller or specialty restaurants, they might receive occasional tips, but it's generally not a consistent part of their income.
Cook Salary in Santa Fe vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $16.12 per hour, which amounts to roughly $33,529.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Santa Fe earn a slightly higher hourly wage of $18.87 and an annual salary of about $39,249.60. This reflects both the regional cost of living and demand for culinary professionals in the area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Santa Fe for Cooks
Nearby areas offer slightly different pay for Cooks:
- Downtown: $20.00 per hour
- South Capitol: $19.50 per hour
Cooks working in Downtown Santa Fe tend to command the highest wages, likely due to concentration of restaurants and higher-end dining establishments.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Santa Fe?
Several key factors influence how much a Cook can earn in Santa Fe.
- Experience and Skills: Cooks with greater culinary skills and years of experience usually earn more.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants, resorts, or hotels often pay better than casual dining or fast food outlets.
- Shift Hours and Flexibility: Working night shifts, weekends, or holidays may come with higher pay or shift differentials.
- Certifications and Training: Having formal culinary training or food safety certifications can increase earning potential.
- Local Market Demand: The concentration of tourism and dining culture in Santa Fe shapes wage levels.
How To Become a Cook in Santa Fe
Starting a cooking career in Santa Fe involves several steps to build skills and credentials.
- Complete Culinary Training: Programs like the Santa Fe Community College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive hands-on and theoretical training.
- Specialized Courses: The Institute of American Indian Arts Culinary Program provides unique education focusing on indigenous cuisines and modern culinary techniques.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification are nationally recognized and vital for working safely in the kitchen.
- Alcohol Licensing: For cooks involved in food preparation where alcohol is served, the New Mexico Alcohol Server License may be required.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level positions in various kitchens and consistent on-the-job training are crucial.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Santa Fe
Prominent employers in Santa Fe actively seeking cooks include:
- Four Seasons
- Chocolate Maven Bakery & Cafe
- Santa Fe County
- City of Santa Fe
- Summit
Establishments That Cooks in Santa Fe Work At
Cooks in Santa Fe find jobs in a variety of establishments, including:
- Fine dining restaurants: These typically pay higher salaries due to skill requirements and customer expectations.
- Resorts and Hotels: High volume and varied menus often result in better pay and benefits.
- Casual dining and fast casual spots: Wages may be moderate but offer opportunities for quicker entry and flexible hours.
- Bakeries and Cafes: Smaller-scale operations may offer consistent but lower pay.
The type of establishment directly influences the pay and potential for growth in the Cook role.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Santa Fe for Cooks
If you are interested in career paths related to being a Cook, here are some similar roles to explore:
These roles include Line Cook, Chef de Partie, and Commis Chef — all closely related culinary positions with varying responsibilities and salary scales.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Santa Fe
Cooks should familiarize themselves with both federal and local labor regulations to ensure proper working conditions and tax compliance.
- Information about federal labor laws can be found at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- State-specific details for New Mexico are available through the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions.
- The City of Santa Fe’s official website offers local employment resources and regulations.