Line Cook Salary in Davenport, IA
Line Cooks in Davenport, IA, in 2025, earn approximately $15.87 per hour, which translates to about $634.80 per week, $2,750.80 per month, and $33,009.60 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Davenport is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities in this field locally and reflecting an expanding hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Davenport, IA?
The salary of a Line Cook in Davenport varies depending on experience and other factors. The following table illustrates earnings at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.64 | $505.60 | $2,190.93 | $26,291.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.87 | $634.80 | $2,750.80 | $33,009.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.93 | $797.20 | $3,441.87 | $41,454.40 |
Do Line Cooks in Davenport Earn Tips?
Typically, Line Cooks do not earn tips as their roles focus on food preparation behind the scenes without direct customer interaction. Their income is mainly based on salary or hourly wages.
Line Cook Salary in Davenport vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn on average about $17.93 per hour, translating to roughly $37,294.40 per year.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Davenport earn slightly less, with an average hourly wage of $15.87 and annual earnings around $33,009.60.
This difference likely reflects local cost of living and market demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Davenport for Line Cooks
Nearby neighborhoods and their approximate hourly rates for Line Cook positions include:
- Downtown Davenport: $16.50 per hour
- East Davenport: $17.00 per hour
Working in East Davenport offers the highest earning potential close to the city, while Downtown also provides competitive wages.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Davenport?
Several important factors can influence a Line Cook's salary in Davenport:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Line Cooks with strong knife skills and speed often command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants generally pay more than fast food or casual dining venues.
- Certifications: Culinary certifications and food safety training can improve salary prospects.
- Shift Timing: Night or weekend shifts sometimes offer differential pay.
- Local Economic Conditions: Cost of living and restaurant demand in Davenport affect wages.
How To Become a Line Cook in Davenport
Becoming a Line Cook in Davenport involves several steps to build relevant skills and knowledge:
- Complete Culinary Education: Programs such as the Culinary Arts, AAS at DMACC or Culinary Arts at Scott Community College provide foundational training in food preparation and kitchen management.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Certifications like ServSafe Certification are often required to demonstrate knowledge of safe food handling.
- Earn Professional Certifications: The Certified Culinarian (CC) credential from the American Culinary Federation can enhance career opportunities.
- Gain Kitchen Experience: Starting as a prep cook or dishwasher helps develop practical skills and workplace familiarity.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Davenport
Some of the top employers in Davenport actively hiring Line Cooks include:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Line Cooks in Davenport Work At
Line Cooks in Davenport commonly work in a variety of food service establishments, each potentially impacting salary:
- Fast Food Restaurants: Lower wages but high volume and fast-paced environment.
- Casual Dining: Moderate wages with more complex menus.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Restaurants: Higher pay reflecting skill requirements.
- Hotels and Banquet Facilities: Often offer consistent hours and benefits.
The type of establishment can significantly affect how much a Line Cook earns, with fine dining generally offering the highest pay.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Davenport for Line Cooks
If you’re interested in positions similar to Line Cook, consider the following related careers that share culinary skills and experience requirements:
These roles include Commis Chef, Fry Cook, and Prep Cook, which involve similar culinary responsibilities and skill sets.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Davenport
Line Cooks in Davenport should be informed about labor laws and tax regulations applicable to their work.
- Visit the official Iowa government website for detailed information about state labor laws, including minimum wage, overtime, and employment standards.
- For federal labor regulations and worker protections, consult the U.S. Department of Labor's official site.