Line Cook Salary in Louisville, KY
Line Cooks in Louisville, KY, in 2025, earn approximately $16.39 per hour, which translates to about $655.60 per week, $2,840.93 per month, and $34,091.20 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Louisville is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunity in the culinary scene of the city.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Louisville, KY?
The salary of a Line Cook in Louisville varies depending on experience, with opportunities to advance and earn more based on skills and workplace.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.73 | $509.20 | $2,205.87 | $26,490.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.39 | $655.60 | $2,840.93 | $34,091.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.11 | $844.40 | $3,647.47 | $43,926.80 |
Do Line Cooks in Louisville Earn Tips?
Line Cooks generally do not earn tips as most tipping typically goes to servers and bartenders who have direct customer interaction. Their compensation is usually from base wages alone.
Line Cook Salary in Louisville vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $18.00 per hour, translating to about $37,440 per year.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Louisville earn slightly less, with an average hourly rate of $16.39 and annual pay of $34,091.20.
This difference reflects local cost of living and market demand variations, though Louisville still offers competitive wages for this role.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Louisville for Line Cooks
Nearby areas show some variation in pay rates for Line Cooks:
- Downtown Louisville: $17.50 per hour
- NuLu: $18.20 per hour
Working in areas like NuLu may provide slightly higher earnings compared to other parts of Louisville due to the area's dining scene and clientele.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Louisville?
Several factors contribute to the salary variations of Line Cooks in Louisville:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Line Cooks with greater culinary skills or those specializing in specific cuisines can command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants and upscale eateries often pay more than casual or fast food establishments.
- Shift and Hours: Working night shifts or longer hours can affect earnings, sometimes with additional shift differentials.
- Certification and Training: Holding certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification can enhance employability and pay prospects.
- Local Market Demand: Areas with a booming restaurant industry, like NuLu, may offer better pay due to higher demand for skilled Line Cooks.
How To Become a Line Cook in Louisville
Starting a career as a Line Cook in Louisville involves several important steps:
- Obtain Culinary Education: Programs like the Sullivan University Culinary Arts Program and Jefferson Community and Technical College Culinary Arts Program offer valuable hands-on training and industry knowledge.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the nationally recognized ServSafe Food Handler Certification and the Kentucky Food Manager Certification demonstrate proficiency in food safety, which employers value greatly.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level kitchen jobs such as Prep Cook or Kitchen Porter can provide experience and help build skills on the job.
- Develop Strong Work Ethic and Team Skills: Success as a Line Cook depends heavily on teamwork, speed, and reliability in fast-paced kitchen environments.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Louisville
Several prominent Louisville establishments known for hiring skilled Line Cooks include:
- Jack Fry's
- 610 Magnolia
- Hammerheads
Establishments That Line Cooks in Louisville Work At
Line Cooks typically find employment across a variety of dining establishments:
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: These venues often offer steady hours but usually at moderate wages.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Higher-end restaurants tend to pay more and may offer better tips and opportunities for advancement.
- Hotels and Resort Kitchens: These establishments can provide consistent schedules and benefits but may have varying pay rates depending on prestige.
- Catering and Event Companies: Often provide diverse work environments and potentially higher pay for special events.
The type of establishment greatly influences the salary and career advancement opportunities available to Line Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Louisville for Line Cooks
If you are interested in careers related to or similar to Line Cook, consider these roles:
These include Fry Cook, Cook, and Kitchen Manager roles, each offering different responsibilities and salary expectations within the culinary field.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Louisville
Line Cooks should stay informed about relevant labor laws and tax requirements specific to Kentucky and Louisville to protect their rights and ensure proper compensation.
- For federal labor laws and regulations, the U.S. Department of Labor website is a comprehensive resource.
- The Kentucky Career Center provides state-specific employment and labor information.
- Local regulations and resources can be found at the official Louisville city website.