Cook Salary in Santa Rosa, CA
Cooks in Santa Rosa, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $20.86 per hour, which translates to about $834.40 per week, $3,615.73 per month, and $43,388.80 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Santa Rosa is growing at about 5% per year, indicating a positive trend and increasing job opportunities in the area.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Santa Rosa, CA?
The salary of a Cook in Santa Rosa varies with experience and employer types, but here is an overview of typical earnings at different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $17.52 | $700.80 | $3,033.60 | $36,403.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.86 | $834.40 | $3,615.73 | $43,388.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $24.85 | $994.00 | $4,283.33 | $51,688.00 |
Do Cooks in Santa Rosa Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips as their primary focus is on food preparation behind the scenes. Their income mainly comes from hourly wages or salaries.
Cook Salary in Santa Rosa vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $16.05 per hour, or about $33,384 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Santa Rosa earn considerably more, with hourly wages at approximately $20.86 and yearly salaries around $43,388.80.
This higher pay reflects the local cost of living and demand for culinary professionals in the region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Santa Rosa for Cooks
In nearby areas, Cook salaries vary slightly, with some neighborhoods offering higher pay:
- Downtown: $22.50 per hour
- Fountaingrove: $23.00 per hour
Those working closer to Fountaingrove may find better compensation opportunities compared to other surrounding areas.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Santa Rosa?
Several key factors can influence a Cook's salary in Santa Rosa:
- Experience Level: More experienced Cooks command higher wages, reflecting their skill and efficiency.
- Skill Set: Specialized culinary skills or expertise in certain cuisines can increase earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and hotels often pay higher salaries than fast food or casual dining.
- Shift Schedules: Working evening or weekend shifts may come with added pay differentials.
- Education and Certifications: Formal culinary education and certifications often lead to better pay and advancement.
How To Become a Cook in Santa Rosa
Launching a career as a Cook in Santa Rosa involves several steps:
- Complete Culinary Training: Programs like Santa Rosa Junior College Culinary Arts Program provide comprehensive training with hands-on kitchen experience.
- Take Specialized Courses: Schools such as Ramekins Culinary School offer courses on cuisines and techniques for both beginners and seasoned Cooks.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Earning credentials like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification or California Food Handler Card is often required by employers to ensure food safety knowledge.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level positions or apprenticeships in kitchens help build the skills necessary for advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Santa Rosa
Some prominent employers in Santa Rosa seeking skilled Cooks include:
- Jackson Family Wines
- Vintners Resort
- BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse
Establishments That Cooks in Santa Rosa Work At
Cooks in Santa Rosa can find employment in a variety of settings, including:
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: These often require high-volume food preparation with moderate pay but offer ample job availability.
- Hotels and Resorts: Typically provide higher wages and opportunities for career growth.
- Winery Restaurants and Tasting Rooms: Unique environments that may offer different culinary challenges and sometimes better pay.
- Catering Services: Seasonally variable work but can pay well for specialized skills.
The type of establishment affects salary greatly, with upscale and specialized venues usually offering the highest wages to attract skilled Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Santa Rosa for Cooks
If you are interested in roles similar to Cook, consider related positions that share culinary skills and career paths.
These include Line Cook, Head Chef, and Kitchen Supervisor roles, which often involve related responsibilities and different salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Santa Rosa
Cooks should familiarize themselves with labor laws and taxation that apply specifically to Santa Rosa and California.
- For state labor laws and regulations, visit the California Department of Industrial Relations.
- The California Employment Development Department offers employment services and tax information.
- Local government resources can be found on the City of Santa Rosa Official Website.