Line Cook Salary in Nashville, TN
Line Cooks in Nashville, TN, in 2025, earn approximately $19.10 per hour, which translates to about $764.00 per week, $3,310.67 per month, and $39,728.00 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Nashville is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy and expanding job market in the local food service industry.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Nashville, TN?
The salary of a Line Cook in Nashville varies depending on experience and employer, but here’s an overview based on different levels of expertise.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.42 | $616.80 | $2,661.60 | $31,977.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.10 | $764.00 | $3,310.67 | $39,728.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.65 | $946.00 | $4,082.67 | $48,992.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Nashville Earn Tips?
Line Cooks generally do not earn tips directly, as tips in most restaurants are usually given to front-of-house staff like servers and bartenders. However, some kitchens have tip-sharing policies that might provide Line Cooks with a small additional income, but this varies widely across establishments.
Line Cook Salary in Nashville vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $18.00 per hour, which equates to about $37,440 per year.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Nashville earn slightly more, with an average of $19.10 per hour and $39,728 annually. This difference may be due to local economic factors and the regional cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Nashville for Line Cooks
Nearby areas offer competitive pay for Line Cooks, such as:
- Germantown: $20.00 per hour
- Downtown: $21.50 per hour
Working closer to Downtown Nashville may afford higher wages due to the concentration of upscale restaurants and increased demand for experienced culinary staff.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Nashville?
Several factors can influence how much a Line Cook earns in Nashville:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Line Cooks with refined culinary techniques typically command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working at fine dining or high-end restaurants often results in better pay compared to casual or fast casual eateries.
- Shift and Hours Worked: Evening, weekend, or holiday shifts might have premium pay rates or shift differentials.
- Certifications and Training: Possessing culinary certifications or completing advanced cooking training can boost salary prospects.
- Local Labor Market Demand: Higher demand for kitchen staff in bustling food scenes like Nashville can push wages upward.
How To Become a Line Cook in Nashville
Starting a career as a Line Cook in Nashville involves several key steps:
- Get Formal Culinary Education: Programs such as the Culinary Arts A.A.S. at Nashville State Community College provide comprehensive cooking, baking, and kitchen management training ideal for aspiring Line Cooks.
- Earn Technical Certifications: Consider the Culinary Arts Technical Certificate at Nashville State Community College to build fundamental skills quickly.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is nationally recognized and often required by employers to ensure compliance with safety standards.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level positions or internships in kitchen settings help develop hands-on cooking abilities.
- Consider Professional Certification: An entry-level credential like the Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation can enhance your resume and job prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Nashville
Some of Nashville's notable employers frequently seeking skilled Line Cooks include:
- The Catbird Seat
- Husk Nashville
- Rolf and Daughters
- City House
- The 404 Kitchen
Establishments That Line Cooks in Nashville Work At
Line Cooks in Nashville often find employment in various culinary environments such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These offer higher salaries and require sophisticated cooking techniques.
- Casual and Fast Casual Eateries: These establishments provide more entry-level opportunities but generally pay less.
- Hotel and Resort Kitchens: Often provide steady schedules and benefits with moderate pay.
- Catering Companies and Event Venues: Pay can vary based on event volume and clientele.
The type and prestige of the establishment heavily impact the earning potential and advancement opportunities for Line Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Nashville for Line Cooks
If you are interested in roles related to Line Cook, there are several similar careers to explore, each with different responsibilities and pay ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Nashville
Understanding labor laws and tax regulations is crucial for Line Cooks to protect their rights and comply with employment standards.
- Visit the official Tennessee government website for comprehensive information on state labor laws and regulations.
- For federal laws and workplace standards, consult the U.S. Department of Labor's website.