Cook Salary in St. Louis, MO
Cooks in St. Louis, MO, in 2025, earn approximately $17.15 per hour, which translates to about $686.00 per week, $2,972.67 per month, and $35,672.00 per year.
The demand for Cooks in St. Louis is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating positive job growth and a healthy market for culinary workers in the area.
How Much Does a Cook Make in St. Louis, MO?
The salary of a Cook in St. Louis can vary depending on experience and specific employers. Below is an overview of earnings at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.75 | $550.00 | $2,383.33 | $28,600.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.15 | $686.00 | $2,972.67 | $35,672.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $27.47 | $1,098.80 | $4,743.47 | $56,976.00 |
Do Cooks in St. Louis Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips since their work is behind the scenes preparing food. Their income usually comes from wages or salary rather than gratuities.
Cook Salary in St. Louis vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of about $16.00 per hour, totaling around $33,280 per year.
When compared to the national average, Cooks in St. Louis earn slightly above average at approximately $17.15 hourly and $35,672 annually.
This may reflect cost of living considerations and regional demand in the St. Louis culinary job market.
Highest-Paying Areas Near St. Louis for Cooks
Nearby areas with higher pay for Cooks include:
- Saint Charles: $18.07 per hour
- Chesterfield: $18.09 per hour
These neighboring cities may offer slightly better wages than St. Louis itself, making them attractive for those willing to commute.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in St. Louis?
Several key factors influence the salary of a Cook in St. Louis:
- Experience and Skills: More skilled Cooks with years of experience and specialization in certain cuisines tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants often pay more compared to fast casual or cafeteria settings.
- Certifications and Training: Culinary certifications and food safety knowledge can improve earning potential.
- Work Hours and Shift Differentials: Night shifts or weekend work may offer additional pay incentives.
- Local Demand: Growing culinary scenes and events increase opportunities and pay rates.
How To Become a Cook in St. Louis
Starting a career as a Cook in St. Louis involves several steps to gain skills and credentials:
- Formal Culinary Training: Programs like the St. Louis Community College Culinary Training offer no-cost, 16-week courses preparing students for entry-level food service jobs.
- Associate Degree: The Culinary Institute of St. Louis at Hickey College provides an 18-month program with hands-on instruction culminating in an associate degree.
- Food Safety Certification: Earning a ServSafe Food Handler Certification is often required for food service employment.
- Entry-Level Certification: The Certified Culinarian (CC) credential from the American Culinary Federation demonstrates fundamental culinary skills.
- Gain Practical Experience: Starting as a kitchen helper or prep cook helps build essential skills and career advancement opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in St. Louis
Several large employers in St. Louis regularly seek qualified Cooks:
- St. Louis Country Club
- Kitchfix
- Hollywood Casino
Establishments That Cooks in St. Louis Work At
Cooks in St. Louis find employment in diverse settings, including:
- Casual Dining: Mid-range restaurants that offer moderately priced meals; salaries are usually average but may include benefits.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: These establishments offer faster service with somewhat lower pay scales.
- Fine Dining: High-end restaurants often pay more due to greater skill requirements and customer expectations.
- Hotels and Catering: Cooks in these settings may enjoy higher wages and more steady hours.
The type of establishment directly impacts pay, benefits, and work environment for Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in St. Louis for Cooks
If you are interested in roles similar to Cook, consider these related careers that share culinary skills and responsibilities.
These include positions such as Line Cook, Prep Cook, and Commis Chef, which have overlapping duties and skill sets within commercial kitchens.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in St. Louis
Cooks should stay informed about labor laws and tax regulations affecting their employment in St. Louis.
- Review local employment regulations at the City of St. Louis official website.
- Understand Missouri state labor laws through the Missouri Department of Labor.
- Consult federal employment standards at the U.S. Department of Labor website.