Line Cook Salary in Cleveland, OH
Line Cooks in Cleveland, OH, in 2025, earn approximately $14.50 per hour, which translates to about $580.00 per week, $2,513.33 per month, and $30,160.00 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Cleveland is growing steadily at about 6% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the local culinary field.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Cleveland, OH?
The salary of a Line Cook in Cleveland can vary depending on experience and employer type. Below is a breakdown of earnings across different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.00 | $480.00 | $2,080.00 | $24,960.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.50 | $580.00 | $2,491.67 | $30,160.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Cleveland Earn Tips?
Line Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work primarily involves preparation and cooking rather than direct customer service. Therefore, their income mostly consists of their hourly wage or salary.
Line Cook Salary in Cleveland vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn around $15.00 per hour, equating to roughly $31,200.00 per year.
Compared to the national figures, Line Cooks in Cleveland earn slightly less hourly at $14.50 per hour, which results in an annual income slightly below the national average.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Cleveland for Line Cooks
Some areas near Cleveland offer higher wages for Line Cooks:
- Downtown: $16.00 per hour
- University Circle: $17.50 per hour
Working in these neighborhoods may offer better earning potential compared to other parts of Cleveland.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Cleveland?
Several factors affect how much a Line Cook can earn in Cleveland:
- Experience: More experienced Line Cooks often receive higher wages due to their skills and reliability.
- Skills and Culinary Techniques: Specialized skills or knowledge of certain cuisines can command better pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and hotels typically pay more than fast food or casual dining places.
- Shift Timing: Working night or weekend shifts might lead to differential pay.
- Certifications: Holding culinary certifications or food safety credentials may increase salary prospects.
How To Become a Line Cook in Cleveland
Becoming a Line Cook in Cleveland involves several steps to prepare for this role successfully:
- Training in Culinary Arts: Enroll in programs like the Cuyahoga Community College Culinary Arts Program or the International Culinary Arts and Sciences Institute to gain foundational cooking skills and training.
- Food Safety Certification: Obtain important certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and the Ohio Manager Certification in Food Protection to meet safety standards.
- Gain Practical Experience: Starting in entry-level kitchen roles or internships helps build the necessary experience.
- Networking: Connecting with local restaurants and culinary professionals in Cleveland can aid in job placement and career development.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Cleveland
Cleveland hosts numerous restaurants and establishments seeking skilled Line Cooks. Top employers include:
- Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse
- The Greenhouse Tavern
- Lola Bistro
Establishments That Line Cooks in Cleveland Work At
Line Cooks in Cleveland can find employment across various types of food service establishments.
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Generally offer stable hours and steady wages but often at the lower end of the salary spectrum.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: These venues often pay entry-level wages but can provide valuable experience and flexible schedules.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Restaurants: Usually offer the highest wages and opportunities for advancement due to the complexity of food preparation and quality expected.
- Hotels and Resorts: These often employ multiple Line Cooks with competitive compensation and benefits.
The establishment type heavily influences the salary range and benefits available to Line Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Cleveland for Line Cooks
If you're considering careers similar to Line Cook, here are a few related roles to explore.
These include Chef de Partie, Fry Cook, and Prep Cook, which involve related culinary responsibilities and skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Cleveland
Line Cooks should be aware of the following resources to understand the labor laws and tax requirements applicable to their work in Cleveland.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and employment information for national guidelines on wages and worker rights.
- Check the State of Ohio's Department of Job and Family Services website for state-specific labor regulations and resources.
- Refer to the City of Cleveland's official website for local policies and employment assistance.