Line Cook Salary in Huntington Beach, CA
Line Cooks in Huntington Beach, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $20.78 per hour, which translates to about $831.20 per week, $3,601.87 per month, and $43,222.40 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Huntington Beach is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating an expanding market and increasing opportunities for culinary professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Huntington Beach, CA?
The salary of a Line Cook in Huntington Beach can vary depending on experience and employer, but here is an overview across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $17.31 | $692.40 | $2,996.80 | $35,904.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.78 | $831.20 | $3,601.87 | $43,222.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $24.95 | $998.00 | $4,326.67 | $51,896.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Huntington Beach Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips as their role is behind the scenes preparing food, rather than direct customer service. Their income is usually based on their hourly wage.
Line Cook Salary in Huntington Beach vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $17.90 per hour, which translates to about $37,232 per year.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Huntington Beach earn more, with an average hourly pay of $20.78 and an annual salary of $43,222.40. This upward difference could be due to the higher living costs in California and the vibrant culinary scene in Huntington Beach.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Huntington Beach for Line Cooks
Nearby areas with higher wages for Line Cooks include:
- Downtown Huntington Beach: $22.50 per hour
- Huntington Harbour: $23.00 per hour
Working in these neighborhoods may offer Line Cooks increased earning potentials compared to other parts of Huntington Beach.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Huntington Beach?
Several factors influence the salary of a Line Cook in Huntington Beach:
- Experience: More years working as a Line Cook generally lead to higher pay as skills and efficiency increase.
- Skillset: Specialized culinary skills or knowledge of various cuisines can improve earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, or resorts typically pay more than casual dining or fast food venues.
- Shift Timing: Working evening, weekend, or holiday shifts often includes shift differentials that increase wages.
- Certifications: Having food safety or culinary certifications can provide a salary boost.
How To Become a Line Cook in Huntington Beach
To pursue a career as a Line Cook in Huntington Beach, consider the following steps:
- Complete Culinary Training: Programs like the Orange Coast College Culinary Arts Program in nearby Costa Mesa provide comprehensive culinary education.
- Obtain Culinary Degrees: Pursuing degrees such as a Bachelor of Science in Culinary Management at The Art Institute of California – Orange County can offer advanced knowledge and leadership skills.
- Earn Required Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and the California Food Handler Card are often mandatory to demonstrate understanding of food safety.
- Gain Practical Experience: Starting in entry-level kitchen jobs or internships to build hands-on skills is important.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Huntington Beach
Some of the leading employers actively hiring Line Cooks in Huntington Beach include:
- U.S. Government
- Hyatt
- The Waterfront Beach Resort
- T S Restaurants
- Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants
Establishments That Line Cooks in Huntington Beach Work At
Line Cooks in Huntington Beach work across a variety of establishments, which influences their salaries:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often offer steady hours but moderate wages.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: May provide lower pay but opportunities for rapid advancement.
- Upscale and Fine Dining: These establishments typically pay higher wages due to the skill level and quality of cuisine required.
- Hotels and Resorts: Usually provide competitive pay and benefits alongside work in larger kitchens.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Huntington Beach for Line Cooks
If you are interested in roles similar to Line Cook, consider the following related careers, which can offer varied opportunities within the hospitality industry:
These include Cook, Fry Cook, and Kitchen Supervisor roles, each with distinct responsibilities and salary potentials in the culinary field.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Huntington Beach
Line Cooks in Huntington Beach should familiarize themselves with important labor laws and tax requirements to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- For federal labor regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The California Department of Industrial Relations provides state-specific information on labor laws and workers' rights.
- The Official Huntington Beach City website offers local government resources and labor-related information.