Line Cook Salary in Minneapolis, MN
Line Cooks in Minneapolis, MN, in 2025, earn approximately $20.10 per hour, translating to about $804.00 per week, $3,484.00 per month, and $41,808.00 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Minneapolis is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities in this role within the local hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Minneapolis, MN?
The salary of a Line Cook in Minneapolis varies based on experience and employer type. Below is an overview of typical earnings for different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.88 | $675.20 | $2,922.67 | $35,075.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.10 | $804.00 | $3,484.00 | $41,808.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.92 | $956.80 | $4,140.27 | $49,673.60 |
Do Line Cooks in Minneapolis Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips as they work primarily in the kitchen behind the scenes. Their compensation is generally limited to their hourly wage or salary without tip earnings.
Line Cook Salary in Minneapolis vs. National Average
The national average hourly wage for a Line Cook is around $18.00 per hour, equating to roughly $37,440 per year.
In comparison, Line Cooks in Minneapolis earn slightly more, averaging $20.10 per hour and $41,808 annually. This difference reflects Minneapolis's local economy and demand within foodservice establishments.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Minneapolis for Line Cooks
Exploring nearby locations, here are some areas with notable Line Cook pay rates:
- Stillwater: $20.65 per hour
- Saint Paul: $19.71 per hour
Stillwater offers the highest pay among these neighboring areas, which might attract Line Cooks seeking better compensation close to Minneapolis.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Minneapolis?
Several key factors affect the salary of a Line Cook in Minneapolis, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced cooks or those with specialized culinary skills typically command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale or high-volume restaurants and hotels usually offers better pay compared to casual or fast-food venues.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening, weekend, and holiday shifts may come with higher pay or shift differentials.
- Certifications and Training: Culinary certifications or food safety credentials may enhance salary prospects.
- Local Market Demand: Demand for kitchen staff in Minneapolis’s busy restaurant scene can push salaries upward.
How To Become a Line Cook in Minneapolis
Starting a career as a Line Cook in Minneapolis involves several strategic steps to improve employability and earnings.
Formal Culinary Education: Enrolling in programs like the Saint Paul College Culinary Arts Program or the Hennepin Technical College Culinary Arts Program helps build essential cooking skills and industry knowledge.
Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensure knowledge of food safety practices, important to potential employers.
Gain Practical Experience: Many Line Cooks start as kitchen assistants, prep cooks, or apprentices to gain hands-on experience in a professional kitchen.
Consider Culinary Certifications: Programs like the Certified Culinarian (CC) from the American Culinary Federation can showcase your professional commitment and improve job prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Minneapolis
Prominent employers in Minneapolis actively hiring Line Cooks include:
- Children's Minnesota
- Sodexo
- Delaware North
Establishments That Line Cooks in Minneapolis Work At
Line Cooks typically find employment in a variety of establishments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These venues often provide steady work but usually at moderate pay scales.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Fast-casual places may offer quicker-paced environments; pay can vary but is often competitive.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger hotels and resorts usually pay more and can offer added benefits.
- Catering Companies: Catering often requires varied skills and may provide good opportunities for overtime.
The type of establishment heavily affects salary, with upscale or high-volume kitchens generally paying higher wages compared to smaller or quick-service operations.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Minneapolis for Line Cooks
Those considering similar roles to Line Cook might explore related positions in the hospitality sector that offer different responsibilities and salary potentials.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Minneapolis
Line Cooks should be familiar with relevant labor laws and tax regulations affecting their work and compensation in Minneapolis.
- Visit the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry for detailed information on state labor regulations including minimum wage, overtime, and worker rights.
- For federal tax information and resources, refer to the Internal Revenue Service website.