Line Cook Salary in Denver, CO
Line Cooks in Denver, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $21.82 per hour, which translates to about $872.80 per week, $3,782.13 per month, and $45,385.60 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Denver is growing steadily at about 7% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the culinary sector throughout the city.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Denver, CO?
The salary of a Line Cook in Denver can vary based on experience, skills, and the type of employer. Here's a general breakdown across various levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $20.90 | $836.00 | $3,610.67 | $43,360.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $23.48 | $939.20 | $4,038.13 | $48,870.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $26.37 | $1,054.80 | $4,565.80 | $54,769.60 |
Do Line Cooks in Denver Earn Tips?
Line Cooks generally do not earn tips as they work primarily behind the scenes in food preparation rather than direct customer service. Their income mainly comes from their base salary or hourly wage.
Line Cook Salary in Denver vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $18.00 per hour, which translates to about $37,440 per year.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Denver earn significantly more, at about $21.82 per hour and $45,385.60 annually.
This difference reflects Denver's higher living costs and strong demand for skilled culinary professionals in the area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Denver for Line Cooks
Nearby cities offer competitive salaries for Line Cooks, with slight variations:
- Vail: $22.56 per hour
- Boulder: $21.88 per hour
Line Cooks working in Vail often have higher pay, but Denver remains a central hub with strong opportunities for culinary professionals.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Denver?
Several key factors impact the salary potential for Line Cooks in Denver:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More experienced Line Cooks, especially those skilled in multiple cuisines or advanced techniques, tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in fine dining or upscale restaurants usually commands better pay than casual or fast-food outlets.
- Shift Hours: Evening, weekend, or overnight shifts may offer higher rates due to demand or shift differentials.
- Certifications and Training: Culinary certifications and food safety licenses contribute to earning potential.
- Local Labor Market: Denver’s evolving culinary scene and demand for kitchen staff influence salary levels.
How To Become a Line Cook in Denver
To pursue a career as a Line Cook in Denver, consider the following steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Education Programs: Programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Johnson & Wales University or courses at Cook Street School of Culinary Arts provide comprehensive hands-on training in culinary techniques, kitchen management, and food safety.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are nationally recognized and highly valued by employers.
- Earn Culinary Designations: The Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation is an entry-level certification that demonstrates fundamental culinary skills.
- Gain Practical Experience: Start in entry-level kitchen roles to develop skills and work your way up.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Denver
Denver hosts several major employers looking for skilled Line Cooks, including:
- The Cheesecake Factory
- McDonald's
- Edible Beats
Establishments That Line Cooks in Denver Work At
Line Cooks can be found working across various types of establishments, each influencing salary:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These provide steady work and competitive pay with moderate skill requirements.
- Fast Casual and Quick-Service Restaurants: Typically offer lower pay compared to full-service restaurants but with quicker advancement opportunities.
- Fine Dining and Specialty Restaurants: Higher wages reflect the greater skill and precision required in these kitchens.
- Catering and Event Venues: Often provide varied work environments and potential for tips or bonuses.
Salary variations depend greatly on the establishment's scale, clientele, and culinary expectations.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Denver for Line Cooks
Those interested in related culinary roles may consider the following options:
These include roles such as Prep Cook, Fry Cook, and Commis Chef, which share similar culinary skills and pathways.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Denver
Line Cooks should be aware of the specific labor laws and tax regulations that apply to their employment in Denver:
- For state-level labor laws and employment regulations, visit the State of Colorado official website.
- Local labor laws and business resources can be found on the City and County of Denver's official website.