Cook Salary in Spokane-Valley, WA
Cooks in Spokane-Valley, WA, in 2025, earn approximately $19.30 per hour, which translates to about $772.00 per week, $3,345.33 per month, and $40,144.00 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Spokane-Valley is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy and increasing need for culinary professionals in this region.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Spokane-Valley, WA?
The salary of a Cook in Spokane-Valley varies by experience and employer, but here is a breakdown of earnings across different levels of experience.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.66 | $666.40 | $2,880.27 | $34,563.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.30 | $772.00 | $3,321.33 | $40,144.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $26.04 | $1,041.60 | $4,507.20 | $54,163.20 |
Do Cooks in Spokane-Valley Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is typically behind the scenes in the kitchen rather than direct customer interaction. Their income primarily comes from their base salary or hourly wage.
Cook Salary in Spokane-Valley vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $16.10 per hour, which is about $33,488 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Spokane-Valley earn more, at about $19.30 per hour and $40,144 annually. This likely reflects local market demand and cost of living factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Spokane-Valley for Cooks
Nearby areas offer slightly higher salaries for Cooks:
- Area 1: $20.50 per hour
- Area 2: $21.00 per hour
These nearby locations may provide better earning potential for Cooks willing to commute.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Spokane-Valley?
Experience and Skill Level: Cooks with more years of experience or specialized cooking techniques typically earn higher wages.
Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants, hotels, or catering companies often pay more than casual dining or fast food establishments.
Certifications and Training: Additional culinary education or food safety certifications can positively impact salary.
Shift and Hours: Working evening, weekend, or holiday shifts might come with shift differentials that can increase earnings.
Local Economic Factors: Cost of living and demand for culinary professionals in Spokane-Valley also influence wages.
How To Become a Cook in Spokane-Valley
To start a career as a Cook in Spokane-Valley, focus on gaining relevant skills and certifications:
- Complete Culinary Training: Programs like the Spokane Community College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive training in cooking techniques, kitchen management, and food safety.
- Get Hands-On Experience: The Inland Northwest Culinary Academy provides practical and theoretical experience emphasizing farm-to-table practices.
- Obtain Mandatory Food Safety Certifications: The Washington State Food Worker Card is required for all food service workers in the state.
- Earn ServSafe Certification: This nationally recognized certification verifies knowledge of safe food handling and preparation practices.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Spokane-Valley
Several well-known casual dining and chain restaurants actively hire Cooks in Spokane-Valley, including:
- Red Robin
- Olive Garden
- Applebee's
- Chili's
- Outback Steakhouse
Establishments That Cooks in Spokane-Valley Work At
Cooks work in a variety of establishments that influence their salary levels and job duties.
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer moderate salaries and steady work, common for entry and mid-level cooks.
- Fast Casual and Chain Restaurants: Often provide consistent schedules but usually lower pay compared to upscale venues.
- Fine Dining and Hotels: Higher skill demands lead to better pay and opportunities for advancement.
- Catering and Event Services: May offer variable hours but sometimes higher per-event pay.
The type and prestige of the establishment can significantly affect a Cook’s earning potential in Spokane-Valley.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Spokane-Valley for Cooks
If you are considering alternatives or career growth from being a Cook, here are some related roles worth exploring:
These include Line Cook, Head Chef, and Kitchen Supervisor roles, all of which require culinary skills with varying responsibilities and salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Spokane-Valley
Understanding labor laws and tax requirements is important for Cooks working in Spokane-Valley.
- Learn about state labor laws and workplace regulations at the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries.
- Federal labor laws and workers' rights are detailed at the U.S. Department of Labor.
- For tax obligations and information, visit the Internal Revenue Service.