Line Cook Salary in Charlotte, NC
Line Cooks in Charlotte, NC, in 2025, earn approximately $17.42 per hour, which translates to about $696.80 per week, $3,019.47 per month, and $36,233.60 per year.
The job demand for Line Cooks in Charlotte is growing at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy increase in opportunities within the local culinary and hospitality sectors.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Charlotte, NC?
The salary of a Line Cook in Charlotte can vary depending on experience, skill level, and the type of establishment. Below is a breakdown of typical pay rates for different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.05 | $562.00 | $2,429.33 | $29,224.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.42 | $696.80 | $3,019.47 | $36,233.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.59 | $863.60 | $3,727.73 | $44,867.20 |
Do Line Cooks in Charlotte Earn Tips?
Line Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is mainly kitchen-based with limited direct customer interaction. Their total earnings mainly come from wages rather than gratuities.
Line Cook Salary in Charlotte vs. National Average
Across the United States, the average hourly wage for Line Cooks is approximately $17.42 per hour, with an annual salary averaging $36,233.60.
Line Cooks in Charlotte earn very close to the national average, reflecting a competitive pay scale consistent with the cost of living and demand in the area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Charlotte for Line Cooks
Nearby areas around Charlotte offer slightly higher pay rates for Line Cooks:
- Uptown: $18.50 per hour
- South End: $19.00 per hour
Line Cooks working in these neighborhoods may benefit from increased wages due to the area's culinary scene and demand.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Charlotte?
A variety of factors affect how much a Line Cook can earn in Charlotte, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Line Cooks who master multiple cooking techniques or cuisines often earn higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels can lead to increased wages compared to casual dining or fast food venues.
- Culinary Education and Certifications: Completing formal training or earning certifications can enhance earning potential.
- Shift Timing and Work Hours: Evening or weekend shifts might include premium pay rates.
- Local Market Demand: Higher demand for quality cooks in certain neighborhoods can drive salaries up.
How To Become a Line Cook in Charlotte
To start a career as a Line Cook in Charlotte, consider the following steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Education Programs: Institutions such as Central Piedmont Community College offer Culinary Arts programs accredited by the American Culinary Federation Education Foundation Accrediting Commission (ACFEFAC) with Exemplary Status, providing hands-on training in modern kitchen environments.
- Explore Specialized Programs: Johnson & Wales University’s College of Food Innovation & Technology in Charlotte offers courses like Applied Food Science, Culinary Nutrition, and Food & Beverage Entrepreneurship that blend culinary skills with business knowledge.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification educate on essential food safety practices.
- Consider Professional Credentials: The Certified Culinarian (CC) Credential offered by the American Culinary Federation is an excellent entry-level certification validating fundamental culinary skills.
- Gain Experience: Work in kitchen roles such as prep cook or kitchen porter to build experience and move up.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Charlotte
The following well-regarded establishments in Charlotte are known for hiring skilled Line Cooks:
- Good Food on Montford
- The Fig Tree Restaurant
- Kindred
- Haberdish
- Stagioni
Establishments That Line Cooks in Charlotte Work At
Line Cooks find employment in a variety of food service settings including casual dining, fast-casual restaurants, fine dining, and hotel kitchens.
The type of establishment often affects salary levels; fine dining and upscale restaurants usually offer better pay and more growth opportunities whereas fast-casual and quick service restaurants may offer lower wages but greater flexibility.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Charlotte for Line Cooks
If you are interested in similar careers within the culinary and hospitality industry, you might consider these positions:
These include Cook, Fry Cook, and Commis Chef, roles with overlapping skills and career growth potential.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Charlotte
Line Cooks should stay informed about federal, state, and local labor laws and tax regulations to ensure fair employment and compliance.
- Refer to the U.S. Department of Labor (federal website) for national labor standards including wages and overtime rules.
- The North Carolina Department of Labor (state website) provides specific state regulations and workplace protections.
- For local ordinances and employment guidance, visit the City of Charlotte Official Website (local government).