Line Cook Salary in Akron, OH
Line Cooks in Akron, OH, in 2025, earn approximately $16.69 per hour, which translates to about $667.60 per week, $2,892.93 per month, and $34,715.20 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Akron is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for job opportunities and career progression in the local culinary industry.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Akron, OH?
The salary of a Line Cook in Akron varies depending on experience and other factors. Below is an overview of typical earnings based on experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.61 | $544.40 | $2,352.53 | $28,252.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.69 | $667.60 | $2,892.93 | $34,715.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.46 | $818.40 | $3,547.20 | $42,556.80 |
Do Line Cooks in Akron Earn Tips?
Line Cooks generally do not earn tips, since their work is largely behind the scenes preparing food rather than interfacing directly with customers. Their income primarily comes from wages rather than gratuities.
Line Cook Salary in Akron vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn approximately $17.95 per hour, which amounts to about $37,336 annually.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Akron earn slightly less, making approximately $16.69 per hour and $34,715 annually. This difference can relate to cost of living and local market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Akron for Line Cooks
Nearby areas offer varying pay for Line Cooks:
- Downtown Akron: $17.50 per hour
- Fairlawn: $18.00 per hour
Those willing to commute to Fairlawn or Downtown Akron could find modestly higher pay compared to other parts of Akron.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Akron?
Several key factors can affect how much a Line Cook earns in Akron:
- Experience: More experienced Line Cooks typically command higher wages due to their enhanced skills and efficiency.
- Skills: Specialized culinary skills, such as proficiency in particular cuisines or techniques, can increase earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants or hotels may offer better pay compared to fast food or casual dining establishments.
- Shift and Hours: Working evening or weekend shifts, or overtime, may result in higher overall pay.
- Local Demand: The economic landscape and demand for culinary professionals in Akron influence salary levels.
How To Become a Line Cook in Akron
Starting a career as a Line Cook in Akron generally involves the following steps:
- Education: Enroll in programs like Culinary Arts at Akron Career Tech High School to gain fundamental knowledge and skills in food production, restaurant management, and food safety.
- Certifications: Obtaining certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and the Certified Culinarian (CC) from the American Culinary Federation can boost employability and credibility.
- Hands-On Experience: Seek entry-level positions or apprenticeships to build practical kitchen experience.
- Networking: Connect with local culinary professionals and employers to discover opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Akron
Prominent employers in Akron actively hiring Line Cooks include:
- Longhorn Steakhouse
- Iron Grill
- Wendy's
Establishments That Line Cooks in Akron Work At
Line Cooks in Akron commonly work in a variety of dining environments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These often provide consistent work hours but moderate pay.
- Fast-Casual Establishments: Offer fast-paced environments with potential for tips in some cases, though less common for Line Cooks.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Usually higher paying due to the scale and quality expectations.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Can offer higher salaries and skill development opportunities.
The type of establishment greatly impacts salary, with upscale venues generally paying more.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Akron for Line Cooks
If you are interested in career options related to the Line Cook role, you might explore:
These include Chef de Partie, Fry Cook, and Prep Cook, which involve related kitchen responsibilities and skill sets.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Akron
Understanding applicable labor laws and tax requirements is crucial for Line Cooks working in Akron.
- Review federal employment standards at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Find information relevant to Ohio’s labor laws on the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services site.
- Explore local resources, regulations, and support for workers on the City of Akron official website.