Line Cook Salary in Arlington, VA
Line Cooks in Arlington, VA, in 2025, earn approximately $17.52 per hour, which translates to about $700.80 per week, $3,036.80 per month, and $36,441.60 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Arlington is growing steadily at about 5% per year, signaling positive job growth and a healthy outlook for this essential position in the food service industry.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Arlington, VA?
The salary of a Line Cook in Arlington, VA varies based on experience and skill level. Here's a breakdown of earnings across different experience levels for this role.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.41 | $496.40 | $2,147.07 | $25,764.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.52 | $700.80 | $3,036.80 | $36,441.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $32.90 | $1,316.00 | $5,698.67 | $68,432.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Arlington, VA Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips as their role is primarily focused on food preparation behind the scenes. Their income is generally limited to their wages and any applicable overtime pay.
Line Cook Salary in Arlington, VA vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $17.14 per hour, which amounts to about $35,651.20 per year.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Arlington earn slightly more, making about $17.52 per hour and $36,441.60 annually. This reflects Arlington's higher cost of living and local market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Arlington, VA for Line Cooks
Nearby areas offer higher pay for Line Cooks, such as:
- Chevy Chase: $38.65 per hour
- Bethesda: $36.74 per hour
Commuting to or working in these locations could significantly increase a Line Cook’s earning potential compared to Arlington.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Arlington, VA?
Several factors affect how much a Line Cook can earn in Arlington, VA:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced and skilled Line Cooks typically command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in higher-end restaurants or hotels usually pays better than fast food or casual dining spots.
- Shift Timing: Evening or overnight shifts sometimes come with shift differentials that boost pay.
- Certifications and Training: Food safety certifications and culinary skills can improve salary and job opportunities.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Arlington's competitive market and living costs raise wages compared to many other regions.
How To Become a Line Cook in Arlington, VA
Here are some key steps for securing a job as a Line Cook in Arlington:
- Complete Culinary Training: Programs like the Arlington Career Center Culinary Arts & Sciences Program provide hands-on experience in food preparation, kitchen safety, and management basics.
- Participate in Specialized Courses: Consider the Kitchen of Purpose Bilingual Culinary Training to obtain practical skills and employment assistance.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Earn credentials such as the ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification or the Northern Virginia Food Manager Certificate, which are often required for food industry jobs.
- Gain Kitchen Experience: Start with entry-level kitchen roles or internships to build cooking skills and workplace familiarity.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Arlington, VA
Several well-known establishments in Arlington hire Line Cooks, including:
- The Westin Crystal City Reagan National Airport
- CARLYLE
- P.F. Chang's
Establishments That Line Cooks in Arlington, VA Work At
Line Cooks in Arlington typically work in various food service environments such as:
- Casual Restaurants: Often offer steady hours with competitive pay tailored to local market conditions.
- Fast Casual Chains: May provide consistent schedules but usually lower wages compared to fine dining.
- Hotels and Resorts: Tend to offer higher salaries and additional perks or benefits.
- Banquet and Event Catering: Can offer fluctuating income based on seasonal demand and event frequency.
The salary can vary depending on the establishment's size, prestige, and clientele. Upscale venues tend to offer more lucrative compensation for skilled Line Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Arlington, VA for Line Cooks
If you are considering similar career paths to a Line Cook, there are many closely related roles in the hospitality industry.
Careers such as Commis Chef, Fry Cook, and Prep Cook involve tasks closely related to a Line Cook’s duties and can be excellent stepping stones or alternatives within the culinary field.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Arlington, VA
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is crucial for Line Cooks to ensure fair treatment and compliance.
- Federal labor regulations can be reviewed on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Virginia-specific labor and industry laws are available at the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry.
- Local community resources and employment information for Arlington residents can be found on the Arlington County official website.