Fry Cook Salary in Chicago, IL
Fry Cooks in Chicago, IL, in 2026, earn approximately $16.85 per hour, which translates to about $674.00 per week, $2,920.67 per month, and $35,048.00 per year.
The demand for Fry Cooks in Chicago is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting an expanding market for food preparation roles in the region as the foodservice industry continues to recover and grow.
How Much Does a Fry Cook Make in Chicago, IL?
The salary of a Fry Cook in Chicago can vary depending on experience and specific employers, but here is a general overview of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.20 | $648.00 | $2,800.00 | $33,600.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.85 | $674.00 | $2,920.67 | $35,048.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.00 | $800.00 | $3,466.67 | $41,600.00 |
Do Fry Cooks in Chicago, IL Earn Tips?
Fry Cooks generally do not earn tips as their role primarily involves food preparation behind the counter or in kitchen areas rather than direct customer service. Their earnings are typically based on hourly wages without tip income.
Fry Cook Salary in Chicago, IL vs. National Average
Nationally, Fry Cooks earn an average of around $15.78 per hour, translating to about $32,822.40 per year.
Compared to the national average, Fry Cooks in Chicago earn slightly more, at about $16.85 per hour and $35,048.00 annually, which may reflect the cost of living and local demand in the region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Chicago, IL for Fry Cooks
When considering surrounding areas, salary rates for Fry Cooks can differ:
- Gurnee: $17.90 per hour
- Romeoville: $17.00 per hour
These nearby locations offer moderately higher wages than Chicago itself, likely due to specific local market conditions and employer competition.
What Influences a Fry Cook’s Salary in Chicago, IL?
Several factors can influence how much a Fry Cook earns in Chicago:
- Experience Level: More experienced Fry Cooks tend to command higher wages as they can perform duties more efficiently and handle more complex tasks in fast-paced environments.
- Skills and Certifications: Skills such as knowledge of food safety and handling, as well as certifications like ServSafe, can make a candidate more valuable.
- Type of Establishment: Fry Cooks working in upscale casual dining or specialty restaurants may receive higher pay than those in fast food or quick service chains.
- Shift Timing and Hours: Working evening, weekend, or holiday shifts may come with shift differentials that raise base pay.
- Local Economic Conditions: Salary rates reflect the cost of living and demand for foodservice workers in Chicago.
How To Become a Fry Cook in Chicago, IL
Starting a career as a Fry Cook in Chicago involves several important steps.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: In Illinois, the Food Handler Certification is required to ensure understanding of safe food practices. Many employers also value the nationally recognized ServSafe Certification.
- Enroll in Culinary Training Programs: Institutions like Kendall College Culinary Arts Program and Washburne Culinary & Hospitality Institute offer comprehensive culinary education and practical training for foodservice roles including Fry Cook.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level positions in kitchens or fast food can provide hands-on experience essential for advancement.
- Develop Culinary Skills: Learning food preparation techniques and kitchen management helps improve job prospects and salary potential.
Top Employers Hiring Fry Cooks in Chicago, IL
Some of the prominent employers seeking skilled Fry Cooks in Chicago include:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Fry Cooks in Chicago, IL Work At
Fry Cooks in Chicago typically find work in various types of foodservice establishments:
- Fast Food Chains: These often pay entry-level wages but offer steady hours and opportunities for advancement.
- Casual Dining Restaurants: May offer higher pay and tips, though tipping is not common for cooks.
- Specialty and Ethnic Restaurants: These may offer more varied cooking experiences and slightly higher wages depending on cuisine popularity.
- Food Trucks and Caterers: Can provide flexible hours and earnings through seasonal or event-based work.
The type of establishment one works at can significantly affect the salary and career growth prospects.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Chicago, IL for Fry Cooks
If you are interested in similar roles related to Fry Cook, consider exploring these career paths:
These include Line Cook, Cook, and Prep Cook positions which involve similar cooking and kitchen preparation skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Fry Cooks in Chicago, IL
Fry Cooks should be aware of several labor laws and tax regulations that apply to their work:
- Federal labor laws and worker rights can be found at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Specific Illinois state labor laws and employment information are available on the Illinois Department of Employment Security site.
- The City of Chicago's official portal provides details on local labor regulations and job resources at Chicago.gov.