Cook Salary in Torrance, CA
Cooks in Torrance, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $18.43 per hour, equating to about $737.20 per week, $3,194.53 per month, and $38,334.40 per year.
The job demand for Cooks in Torrance is positive, with a growth rate of 5% per year, indicating expanding opportunities and an upward trend in this culinary career.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Torrance, CA?
The salary of a Cook in Torrance varies based on experience, skills, and workplace, but here’s an overview of what you can expect at different levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.00 | $640.00 | $2,773.33 | $33,280.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.00 | $880.00 | $3,813.33 | $45,760.00 |
Do Cooks in Torrance Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is behind the scenes in kitchens; their compensation typically comes from wages or salary alone.
Cook Salary in Torrance vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $16.75 per hour, which totals about $34,840 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Torrance earn a higher wage, approximately $18.43 per hour and $38,334.40 annually, reflecting the cost of living and demand in the California area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Torrance for Cooks
Nearby neighborhoods offer slightly different pay rates for Cooks:
- Old Torrance: $19.50 per hour
- Del Amo: $20.00 per hour
Cooks working in Del Amo tend to earn the highest wages nearby, followed closely by Old Torrance.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Torrance?
Experience plays a major role; seasoned Cooks earn more than entry-level ones. Skill set specialization, such as proficiency in different cuisines or kitchen equipment, can also increase earnings.
The type of establishment is another key factor, with upscale restaurants typically paying more than casual dining or fast food.
Additional factors include work hours (overtime or night shifts may pay more), certifications related to food safety, and the overall local cost of living.
How To Become a Cook in Torrance
Embarking on a career as a Cook in Torrance can be facilitated by a combination of education and experience:
- The Culinary Arts Program at Los Angeles Harbor College offers comprehensive training in culinary techniques and kitchen management, which is valuable for aspiring Cooks.
- Professional Cooking Program at The Art Institute of California – Los Angeles provides hands-on experience in various cooking styles and cuisines, equipping candidates with practical skills.
- Obtaining certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensures knowledge of food safety practices required in California.
- The Certified Culinarian (CC) credential from the American Culinary Federation recognizes professional competency and can boost employment prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Torrance
Several prominent employers actively seek skilled Cooks in Torrance, including:
- KFC
- Torrance Memorial Medical Center
- DoubleTree by Hilton
Establishments That Cooks in Torrance Work At
Cooks in Torrance work across a variety of establishments, including casual dining restaurants, fast casual outlets, hotels, and institutional kitchens such as healthcare facilities.
The type of establishment significantly impacts salary; upscale hotels and specialty restaurants usually offer higher wages compared to fast food or casual places.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Torrance for Cooks
If you're interested in careers similar to Cooking, you might consider roles such as:
These include Fry Cook, Line Cook, and Prep Cook, which involve related culinary duties with varying specialization and salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Torrance
Cooks should be informed about key labor laws and tax requirements affecting their work in Torrance.
- Refer to the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for overarching employment guidelines.
- California-specific workplace standards and labor laws are detailed on the California state website.
- For municipal regulations and local resources, visit the Local city website.