Cook Salary in South Fulton, GA
Cooks in South Fulton, GA, in 2025, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The job demand for cooks in South Fulton is growing at a rate of 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for employment opportunities and career growth in this field within the area.
How Much Does a Cook Make in South Fulton, GA?
The salary of a Cook in South Fulton varies by experience. Here's a breakdown of hourly, weekly, monthly, and yearly earnings across different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,434.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Cooks in South Fulton Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips as their responsibilities are primarily in food preparation behind the scenes, rather than direct customer service roles that typically receive gratuities.
Cook Salary in South Fulton, GA vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of about $14.50 per hour or roughly $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, cooks in South Fulton earn a little less per hour at $13.90, and the yearly salary is slightly below the national average at $28,912.
This slight difference can be influenced by regional cost of living and local economic factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near South Fulton for Cooks
Nearby areas with higher pay for Cooks include:
- Area 1: $15.50 per hour
- Area 2: $17.60 per hour
Cooks willing to commute near South Fulton might find more lucrative opportunities in these neighboring areas offering better hourly wages.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in South Fulton?
Experience and Skill Level: Cooks with more years of experience or specialized cooking skills typically earn higher wages.
Type of Establishment: Employment in upscale restaurants or hotels usually leads to better pay compared to fast food or casual dining.
Certifications: Holding food safety or culinary certifications can boost salary potential.
Shift Timing: Working evening or weekend shifts could include shift differentials enhancing overall compensation.
Local Demand & Cost of Living: Areas with a higher demand for culinary professionals and greater living expenses may offer increased salaries.
How To Become a Cook in South Fulton
To pursue a career as a Cook in South Fulton, the following steps can be valuable:
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Programs such as the Fulton Schools College and Career Academy Culinary Arts Program provide practical culinary skills training including courses like Introduction to Culinary Arts and Culinary Arts II.
- Advanced Training: Consider comprehensive courses offered by institutions like Atlanta Technical College Culinary Arts Program which covers culinary techniques, kitchen management, and food safety.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and the ServSafe Food Manager Certification are highly beneficial and often required by employers.
- Gain Hands-On Experience: Internships or entry-level positions in kitchens help develop practical skills and pave the way for career advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in South Fulton
Many popular establishments in South Fulton frequently seek skilled Cooks, including:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Cooks in South Fulton Work At
Cooks in South Fulton find work across a variety of establishments such as:
- Fast Food Restaurants: Often offer steady work hours but fewer benefits and lower wages.
- Casual Dining: Provide slightly higher wages with more opportunity for culinary creativity.
- Hotels and Catering Companies: Typically pay better wages and may offer career progression potential.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: While more demanding, these establishments offer the highest pay and opportunities for skill development.
The salary of a Cook can vary widely depending on the establishment type, workload, and prestige of the venue.
Related Hospitality Jobs in South Fulton for Cooks
If you are exploring careers related to being a Cook, there are a variety of roles that share similar skill sets and salary ranges.
These include Line Cook, Prep Cook, and Commis Chef roles, all offering pathways for career development within culinary arts.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in South Fulton
Understanding labor laws and tax requirements is essential for Cooks working in South Fulton.
- Visit the U.S. Department of Labor for comprehensive federal labor regulations affecting employment.
- The Georgia Department of Labor provides state-specific employment laws and workforce resources.
- The City of South Fulton government website offers orientation on local ordinances and job-related community support.