Cook Salary in Victorville, CA
Cooks in Victorville, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $18.91 per hour, which translates to about $756.40 per week, $3,277.73 per month, and $39,332.80 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Victorville is growing at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and expanding opportunities in the food service industry in this region.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Victorville, CA?
The salary of a Cook in Victorville varies based on experience and employer, but the following breakdown provides a general overview of earnings across different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.50 | $660.00 | $2,860.00 | $34,320.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.91 | $756.40 | $3,277.73 | $39,332.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.24 | $889.60 | $3,845.87 | $46,259.20 |
Do Cooks in Victorville Earn Tips?
Cooks typically do not earn tips as their work is primarily behind the scenes preparing food. Their income is mainly based on their wages rather than customer gratuities.
Cook Salary in Victorville vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of about $16.00 per hour, equating to roughly $33,280 per year.
In comparison, Cooks in Victorville earn more than the national average at approximately $18.91 per hour and $39,332.80 annually. This is likely influenced by regional factors such as cost of living and demand in the local food industry.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Victorville for Cooks
Nearby areas offer slightly different pay rates for Cooks:
- Lake Arrowhead: $20.39 per hour
- Duarte: $19.89 per hour
Cooks might find higher wages by working in Lake Arrowhead or Duarte, although Victorville offers competitive salary options.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Victorville?
Several factors affect how much a Cook can earn in Victorville:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Cooks with strong culinary skills often command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels tends to offer better compensation than fast food or casual dining.
- Work Schedule: Overtime hours, night shifts, and weekends can increase overall earnings.
- Certifications and Training: Completion of food safety programs or culinary courses can enhance a Cook’s value to employers.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Regional economic factors influence wages in Victorville and surrounding areas.
How To Become a Cook in Victorville
To start a career as a Cook in Victorville, consider the following steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Education Programs: The Culinary Arts Program at San Bernardino Valley College offers degrees and certificates preparing students for food service careers.
- Get Certified in Food Safety: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensures knowledge of food safety practices and is often required by employers.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level positions in restaurants or catering provide valuable hands-on learning.
- Develop Key Culinary Skills: Improving knife handling, food preparation, and cooking techniques will increase job prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Victorville
Many well-known restaurants and chains frequently hire Cooks in the Victorville area, including:
- Cracker Barrel
- Chili's
- Denny's
- Olive Garden
- Sonic Drive-In
Establishments That Cooks in Victorville Work At
Cooks find employment in a variety of food service settings, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often offer steady hours but moderate pay.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Provide quicker service environments with variable pay scales.
- Fine Dining and Hotels: Tend to offer higher wages and opportunities for skill development.
- Institutional Food Service: Includes hospitals or schools where pay and conditions vary.
The type and prestige of the establishment can significantly affect a Cook’s salary and career growth.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Victorville for Cooks
If you’re interested in similar roles within the hospitality sector, consider these positions that share related skills and responsibilities:
These include Line Cook, Commis Chef, and Kitchen Manager roles, which involve culinary skills and leadership opportunities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Victorville
Cooks should be informed about labor laws and tax regulations that apply to their employment in Victorville, CA.
- You can learn more about federal labor laws and workplace standards on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Specific California labor regulations and worker protections are detailed at the California Department of Industrial Relations website.