Line Cook Salary in Boise, ID
Line Cooks in Boise, ID, in 2026, earn approximately $18.49 per hour, which translates to about $739.60 per week, $3,204.93 per month, and $38,459.20 per year.
The job demand for Line Cooks in Boise is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the local culinary industry.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Boise, ID?
The salary of a Line Cook in Boise varies depending on experience and employer. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.59 | $623.60 | $2,697.07 | $32,359.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.49 | $739.60 | $3,204.93 | $38,459.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.93 | $877.20 | $3,791.33 | $45,614.40 |
Do Line Cooks in Boise Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips as their work is primarily behind the scenes in the kitchen. Their earnings mainly come from hourly wages rather than customer tips.
Line Cook Salary in Boise vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn around $18.49 per hour and about $38,459.20 per year, which matches the average salary seen in Boise.
This suggests that Boise's Line Cook salaries are competitive with the national average, reflecting balanced local demand and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Boise for Line Cooks
Nearby areas offer slightly different pay rates for Line Cooks:
- Eagle, ID: $19.54 per hour
- Coeur d'Alene, ID: $19.07 per hour
Line Cooks traveling to Eagle may find better hourly pay compared to Boise, while Coeur d'Alene also offers relatively competitive wages.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Boise?
Several important factors affect how much a Line Cook can earn in Boise:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced and skilled Line Cooks can command higher wages.
- Establishment Type: Working in upscale restaurants usually pays more than fast food or casual dining.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts might include higher pay rates or shift differentials.
- Certifications: Holding certifications in food safety and culinary skills can increase earning potential.
- Local Economic Factors: Boise's cost of living and labor market affect salary ranges.
How To Become a Line Cook in Boise
To start a career as a Line Cook in Boise, consider these steps:
- Gain Culinary Education: Participating in hands-on cooking classes such as those offered by Season + Taste can provide practical skills taught by professional chefs.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Programs like the ServSafe Certification improve your qualifications and are often required by employers.
- Acquire Experience: Entry-level positions in local restaurants or culinary internships can help build kitchen experience.
- Develop Knife and Cooking Techniques: Mastering foundational Line Cook skills improves job performance and promotion prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Boise
Some of the prominent employers currently hiring Line Cooks in Boise include:
- Chili's
- Hillcrest Country Club
- Tavolàta
Establishments That Line Cooks in Boise Work At
Line Cooks commonly work in various culinary settings such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These provide steady work with moderate wages.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: Lower pay but faster-paced environments.
- Upscale and Fine Dining: These establishments offer higher wages and greater skill requirements.
- Country Clubs and Hotels: Often pay competitive wages and may offer benefits.
The type of establishment has a meaningful impact on a Line Cook’s salary and career development opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Boise for Line Cooks
If you are exploring roles similar to Line Cook, consider these related careers that require comparable culinary skills:
These include Prep Cook, Fry Cook, and Chef de Partie roles, which involve skill advancement and offer varying salary prospects.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Boise
Line Cooks should understand the labor laws and tax requirements applicable to their employment:
- Refer to the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for nationwide employment standards.
- The State of Idaho Department of Labor website provides state-specific labor resources and guidance.