Line Cook Salary in Boston, MA
Line Cooks in Boston, MA, in 2026, earn approximately $20.93 per hour, which translates to about $837.20 per week, $3,627.87 per month, and $43,534.40 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Boston is growing steadily at about 6% per year, indicating positive job outlook and increasing opportunities in the local culinary scene.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Boston, MA?
The salary of a Line Cook in Boston varies based on experience and location within the city. Below is a breakdown of earnings by experience level:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.00 | $640.00 | $2,773.33 | $33,280.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.00 | $800.00 | $3,466.67 | $41,600.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Boston Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips directly since tipping usually goes to front-of-house staff. However, in some establishments, they may receive small tip shares or bonuses amounting to a few dollars per hour or occasional extra earnings.
Line Cook Salary in Boston vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $17.19 per hour, which is about $35,755.20 per year.
Line Cooks in Boston earn more than the national average, with an hourly wage of approximately $20.93 and an annual salary nearing $43,534.40. This reflects the higher cost of living and culinary demand in Boston.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Boston for Line Cooks
Some neighborhoods near Boston offer even higher wages for Line Cooks:
- Back Bay: $21.50 per hour
- Seaport District: $22.00 per hour
These areas tend to have upscale restaurants and higher living costs, explaining the increased pay for culinary staff.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Boston?
Several factors affect how much a Line Cook can earn in Boston:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced cooks with knowledge of diverse cuisines generally earn better pay.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants pay more than casual cafes or fast-food outlets.
- Location: Working in high-end areas like the Seaport District usually increases salary averages.
- Shift Hours: Night or holiday shifts may come with premium pay.
- Certifications and Training: Culinary certifications can boost salary potential.
How To Become a Line Cook in Boston
Starting a career as a Line Cook can be achieved by following these steps:
- Get Culinary Education: Enroll in programs like the Boston University Metropolitan College Culinary Arts Program or the Cambridge School of Culinary Arts Professional Chef's Program to gain essential skills.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and Allergen Awareness Training in Massachusetts are crucial for employment.
- Gain Kitchen Experience: Working as a prep cook or kitchen assistant helps build practical skills.
- Develop Strong Work Ethic and Team Skills: Line Cooks often work in fast-paced environments and must collaborate efficiently.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Boston
Some well-known establishments frequently hiring Line Cooks in Boston include:
- Four Seasons Boston
- Olive Garden
- Tatte Bakery & Cafe
Establishments That Line Cooks in Boston Work At
Line Cooks are employed across many types of food service establishments such as:
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: Often pay moderate wages but provide valuable experience.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Restaurants: Typically offer higher salaries due to the skill level and expectations.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Can pay competitively and offer more benefits.
- Bakeries and Cafés: Some specialize in quick-service meals requiring kitchen staff.
The type of establishment influences both salary and career advancement opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Boston for Line Cooks
If you’re interested in similar culinary or hospitality roles, consider these positions:
These include Chef de Partie, Fry Cook, and Prep Cook roles, which share overlapping duties and career paths with Line Cooks.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Boston
Understanding labor laws and taxes is important for Line Cooks in Boston. Key resources include:
- Details on state-specific labor laws can be found at the Official website of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
- Federal labor regulations and workplace standards are available on the U.S. Department of Labor's official website.