Line Cook Salary in Lexington, KY
Line Cooks in Lexington, KY, in 2025, earn approximately $15.83 per hour, which translates to about $633.20 per week, $2,743.87 per month, and $32,926.40 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Lexington is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the food service industry locally.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Lexington, KY?
The salary of a Line Cook in Lexington varies depending on experience and employer. Below is an overview of earnings based on different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.72 | $508.80 | $2,202.40 | $26,505.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.83 | $633.20 | $2,743.87 | $32,926.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.69 | $787.60 | $3,410.13 | $40,832.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Lexington Earn Tips?
Line Cooks generally do not earn tips directly since they work primarily in kitchen preparation and have limited customer interaction. Their compensation usually consists of hourly wages without additional tipping income.
Line Cook Salary in Lexington vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $15.83 per hour, translating to about $32,926.40 per year.
Comparing this to Lexington, KY, Line Cooks earn roughly the same as the national average, suggesting the local market provides competitive wages aligned with broader trends.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lexington for Line Cooks
Nearby areas offer slightly varied pay rates for Line Cooks:
- Downtown: $17.50 per hour
- Chevy Chase: $16.80 per hour
Working in Downtown Lexington may offer better hourly pay compared to Chevy Chase, making these areas attractive for job seekers willing to commute.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Lexington?
Several key factors can influence how much a Line Cook earns in Lexington:
- Experience: More years of experience often translate to higher wages as skills improve and efficiency increases.
- Skill Level: Proficiency in various cooking techniques and multiple station capabilities can elevate pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and hotels usually offer higher salaries compared to fast food or casual dining.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Working evenings, weekends, or holidays may attract shift differentials that boost earnings.
- Certifications: Food safety and culinary related certifications can increase a Line Cook’s value to employers.
How To Become a Line Cook in Lexington
To build a career as a Line Cook in Lexington, consider the following:
- Complete Culinary Training: Enroll in programs such as the Bluegrass Community and Technical College Culinary Arts Program or Sullivan University Lexington Campus Culinary Arts Program to gain hands-on skills and formal education.
- Obtain Safety Certifications: Acquire essential certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification to demonstrate knowledge of safe food handling, which is often required for employment.
- Complete Specialty Trainings: Depending on the job, completing the Kentucky Alcohol Beverage Control (ABC) Server Training may also be beneficial, especially in establishments serving alcohol.
- Gain Practical Experience: Work in kitchens in entry-level positions to develop proficiency and advance.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Lexington
Some of the well-known employers seeking skilled Line Cooks in Lexington include:
- The Cheesecake Factory
- P.F. Chang's
- Jeff Ruby Culinary Entertainment
Establishments That Line Cooks in Lexington Work At
Line Cooks in Lexington commonly work in various types of food service establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These often provide steady shifts with moderate wages.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Usually feature a faster work pace and may offer slightly lower pay.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Venues: Typically pay higher wages and require greater skill levels.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Can offer specialized cooking tasks and potential for advancement.
The type of establishment significantly affects salary, with upscale dining and hotels generally providing better compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lexington for Line Cooks
Those interested in similar roles to Line Cook might also consider:
These jobs include Fry Cook, Cook, and Kitchen Supervisor, which share culinary responsibilities and skills similar to those of a Line Cook.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Lexington
Line Cooks should stay informed about labor laws and tax regulations applicable in Lexington and Kentucky.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for comprehensive federal employment standards.
- Check the Kentucky Career Center for state-specific employment and labor information.
- For local government resources, the Official website of Lexington, KY provides helpful guidance.