Line Cook Salary in Long Beach, CA
Line Cooks in Long Beach, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $19.54 per hour, which translates to about $781.60 per week, $3,386.93 per month, and $40,643.20 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Long Beach is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive job market and increasing opportunities for culinary professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Long Beach, CA?
The salary of a Line Cook in Long Beach varies depending on experience, skills, and the establishment. Below is a general overview of what you can expect across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.54 | $781.60 | $3,386.93 | $40,643.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.78 | $951.20 | $4,110.13 | $49,462.40 |
Do Line Cooks in Long Beach Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips as they work primarily in the kitchen and are not directly interacting with customers. Their income mainly consists of their hourly wage or salary.
Line Cook Salary in Long Beach vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $18.00 per hour, equating to about $37,440 per year.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Long Beach earn more, at approximately $19.54 per hour and $40,643.20 annually. This increase is reflective of the local market and cost of living in the area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Long Beach for Line Cooks
If you're open to working near Long Beach, some of the highest-paying nearby areas for Line Cooks include:
- Lake Forest: $21.93 per hour
- Los Altos: $21.61 per hour
These nearby locations offer higher hourly wages, which can be attractive for those willing to commute or relocate.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Long Beach?
Several key factors can influence how much a Line Cook earns in Long Beach:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Line Cooks with refined culinary skills often command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale or fine dining restaurants typically pays more than fast food or casual dining.
- Shift Hours: Evening or overnight shifts might have different pay scales or shift differentials.
- Certifications and Training: Having culinary certifications or specialized food safety training can enhance salary potential.
- Local Economic Conditions: Wages are also influenced by the cost of living and demand in the Long Beach culinary market.
How To Become a Line Cook in Long Beach
Starting a career as a Line Cook in Long Beach involves a few steps to gain relevant skills and experience:
- Complete Culinary Education or Training: Programs like the Culinary Arts Associate in Science (AS) and Culinary Arts Certificate of Achievement at Long Beach City College provide hands-on training in culinary fundamentals and techniques.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is commonly required to ensure workers understand proper food safety practices.
- Gain Work Experience: Start as a kitchen assistant or prep cook to build fundamental skills and move up to Line Cook positions.
- Develop Culinary Skills: Practice multitasking, timing, and knowledge of ingredients to excel in busy kitchen environments.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Long Beach
Several employers in Long Beach frequently hire Line Cooks, including:
- U.S. Government
- Culinary Staffing Service
- Hotel Maya
- Virginia Country Club
- El Pollo Loco
Establishments That Line Cooks in Long Beach Work At
Line Cooks find employment in various types of food service establishments, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These establishments often provide steady work schedules but may offer moderate wages.
- Fast Casual and Quick-Service Restaurants: While these tend to have faster-paced environments, wages might be lower compared to full-service restaurants.
- Hotels and Country Clubs: These typically offer better pay, benefits, and sometimes tips as part of compensation.
- Catering Companies and Event Venues: Work can be seasonal or event-based with variable pay rates.
The type of establishment influences the salary, with upscale venues generally paying higher wages to attract skilled Line Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Long Beach for Line Cooks
If you're considering careers similar to Line Cook, you may also explore roles such as:
These include Commis Chef, Fry Cook, and Prep Cook, all of which involve culinary preparation and kitchen work, often leading to advancement opportunities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Long Beach
Understanding labor laws and tax regulations is vital for Line Cooks in Long Beach.
- You can refer to the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for nationwide guidelines.
- California-specific labor laws and workplace regulations are available at the California Department of Industrial Relations website.
- For city-specific regulations and resources, visit the Long Beach local government website.