Line Cook Salary in Atlanta, GA
Line Cooks in Atlanta, GA, in 2025, earn approximately $17.66 per hour, which translates to about $706.40 per week, $3,061.07 per month, and $36,732.80 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Atlanta is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive job outlook and expanding opportunities for those entering the culinary workforce.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Atlanta, GA?
The salary of a Line Cook in Atlanta can vary depending on experience, skill, and employer. Below is an overview of earnings based on different levels of expertise.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.47 | $898.80 | $3,898.80 | $46,737.60 |
Do Line Cooks in Atlanta Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips as their work is mainly in the kitchen rather than direct customer service. Their compensation largely depends on their hourly wage or salary rather than gratuities.
Line Cook Salary in Atlanta vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of about $18.02 per hour, or roughly $37,481.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Atlanta earn slightly less per hour, at $17.66, and approximately $36,732.80 annually. This small difference may reflect regional cost of living variations and local market factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Atlanta for Line Cooks
Nearby cities offer varied pay rates for Line Cooks, for example:
- Johns Creek: $18.04 per hour
- Alpharetta: $17.43 per hour
These locations might offer opportunities for Line Cooks seeking higher wages within commuting distance of Atlanta.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Atlanta?
Several factors impact how much a Line Cook can earn in Atlanta:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More experienced Line Cooks with advanced cooking techniques or specialization typically earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale or fine dining restaurants usually pays better than casual or fast food establishments.
- Shift Hours and Availability: Willingness to work nights, weekends, or holidays can influence salary due to possible premiums or bonuses.
- Education and Certifications: Culinary training or certifications may lead to better job opportunities and pay.
- Location Within the Metro Area: Some parts of Atlanta or nearby cities may offer higher pay aligned with local demand and cost of living.
How To Become a Line Cook in Atlanta
Starting a career as a Line Cook in Atlanta often involves a combination of training, skill development, and certification:
- Complete Culinary Training: Programs such as those at Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts or Atlanta Technical College Culinary Arts Program provide valuable hands-on experience and foundational knowledge.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: Acquiring certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensures compliance with health regulations and boosts employability.
- Gain Practical Kitchen Experience: Working as a kitchen assistant, prep cook, or similar role builds the skills necessary to move into a Line Cook position.
- Consider Professional Credentials: Obtaining certifications like Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation can demonstrate competence and commitment.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Atlanta
Many well-known restaurant chains and dining establishments in Atlanta are regularly looking for Line Cooks:
- Chili's
- The Capital Grille
- Maggiano's Little Italy
Establishments That Line Cooks in Atlanta Work At
Line Cooks find employment in a range of dining establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often offer steady schedules and moderate pay, ideal for entry-level cooks.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: Pay may be lower, but these places emphasize fast-paced kitchen experience.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Restaurants: Tend to provide higher wages, opportunities for skill development, and career growth.
- Hotels and Catering Companies: Can offer competitive pay and benefits due to larger scale operations.
The type of establishment a Line Cook works for significantly affects both pay scale and career trajectory.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Atlanta for Line Cooks
For those interested in culinary roles similar to Line Cooking, consider these related positions:
These include Chef de Partie, Prep Cook, and Commis Chef roles, which feature overlapping skills and career pathways with Line Cooks.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Atlanta
Line Cooks should familiarize themselves with pertinent labor laws and tax responsibilities at both the federal and state levels.
- Information on federal labor laws can be found on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For Georgia-specific labor laws and resources, visit the Georgia Department of Labor.