Cook Salary in Seattle, WA
Cooks in Seattle, WA, in 2025, earn approximately $23.71 per hour, which translates to about $948.40 per week, $4,109.73 per month, and $49,316.80 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Seattle is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy and expanding market for culinary professionals within the region.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Seattle, WA?
The salary of a Cook in Seattle varies depending on their level of experience, skills, and the type of establishment they work for. Here is a breakdown of salary estimates across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $20.76 | $830.40 | $3,591.73 | $43,100.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $23.71 | $948.40 | $4,109.73 | $49,316.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $29.59 | $1,183.60 | $5,127.07 | $61,467.20 |
Do Cooks in Seattle Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is mostly behind the scenes. Their income primarily comes from their wages or salary, with tip earning typically reserved for front-of-house roles.
Cook Salary in Seattle vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $16 per hour, which amounts to about $33,280 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Seattle earn significantly more, at approximately $23.71 per hour and $49,316.80 annually.
This higher earning potential is attributed to the cost of living in Seattle as well as the demand for skilled culinary workers in the area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Seattle for Cooks
Nearby areas around Seattle also offer competitive salaries for Cooks, including:
- Downtown: $25.00 per hour
- Capitol Hill: $24.50 per hour
Working in these areas might offer slightly better pay compared to other parts of Seattle, making them attractive locations for culinary professionals.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Seattle?
Several factors influence how much a Cook can earn in Seattle, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Cooks with specialized skills such as grilling, sauté, or pastry may command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants and hotels often offer better pay compared to fast food or casual dining venues.
- Certifications and Training: Formal training and culinary certifications can boost earning potential substantially.
- Shift and Hours Worked: Evening, weekend, or holiday shifts may qualify for shift differentials, increasing overall pay.
- Local Cost of Living: Seattle's living expenses generally push wages higher compared to many other cities.
How To Become a Cook in Seattle
To pursue a career as a Cook in Seattle, aspiring culinary professionals can take several steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Programs like the Seattle Culinary Academy offer comprehensive culinary arts training with hands-on experience and industry connections.
- Take Local Culinary Courses: The South Seattle College Culinary Arts Program provides various courses focusing on practical skills and professional growth.
- Obtain Food Handling Certifications: The Washington State Food Worker Card is mandatory for all food service workers, demonstrating knowledge of essential food safety practices.
- Earn National Certifications: The ServSafe Certification is nationally recognized and often required by employers to ensure a high standard of food safety.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Seattle
Seattle features many renowned establishments employing skilled Cooks, including:
- Canlis
- The Pink Door
- Salty's on Alki Beach
- Tom Douglas Restaurants
- Ethan Stowell Restaurants
Establishments That Cooks in Seattle Work At
Cooks in Seattle find employment across a wide range of establishments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer varied menus and steady employment, often with moderate pay.
- Fast Casual Venues: Typically faster-paced with slightly lower wages but can offer valuable experience.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These establishments usually offer higher salaries due to the skill demands and formal training required.
- Hotels and Resort Kitchens: These may provide benefits and higher pay depending on the prestige and clientele.
The type of establishment significantly affects a Cook's salary, with upscale and specialized kitchens generally providing the best compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Seattle for Cooks
If you are interested in careers related to Cook, here are a few similar roles to consider:
The related careers include Line Cook, Chef de Partie, and Kitchen Manager, all of which involve culinary skills and responsibilities similar to those of a Cook.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Seattle
Understanding and complying with labor laws and tax obligations is critical for Cooks in Seattle to ensure proper work conditions and financial management.
- Visit the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries website for detailed information about labor laws, workplace rights, and safety regulations.
- For federal labor standards, the U.S. Department of Labor's official website offers extensive resources and guidance.