Line Cook Salary in New Haven, CT
Line Cooks in New Haven, CT, in 2025, earn approximately $19.46 per hour, which translates to about $778.40 per week, $3,373.07 per month, and $40,476.80 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in New Haven is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job outlook and expanding opportunities in the local culinary scene.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in New Haven, CT?
The salary of a Line Cook in New Haven varies depending on experience level and workplace. The following table summarizes typical earnings at different career stages.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.48 | $659.20 | $2,851.73 | $34,310.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.46 | $778.40 | $3,373.07 | $40,476.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.99 | $919.60 | $3,963.87 | $47,779.20 |
Do Line Cooks in New Haven Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips directly because their role is mainly behind the scenes in kitchen operations. Their income is generally limited to their wage or salary.
Line Cook Salary in New Haven vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn about $18.00 per hour, or roughly $37,440 per year.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in New Haven earn more, at approximately $19.46 per hour and $40,476.80 annually.
This higher pay likely reflects New Haven’s local cost of living and demand for skilled culinary professionals.
Highest-Paying Areas Near New Haven for Line Cooks
Nearby locations offer slightly different pay rates for Line Cooks:
- Downtown New Haven: $20.50 per hour
- East Rock: $21.00 per hour
Line Cooks working in these neighborhoods can expect a small wage premium compared to the city average.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in New Haven?
Several factors influence the salary of a Line Cook in New Haven:
- Experience Level: More experienced Line Cooks typically command higher wages due to their enhanced skills and efficiency.
- Skills and Specialization: Line Cooks proficient in specific cuisines or cooking techniques may earn premiums.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale or fine dining restaurants often yields higher salaries than fast food or casual eateries.
- Shift Timing: Evening, weekend, or holiday shifts can come with shift differentials boosting pay.
- Location: Working in higher-paying neighborhoods within or near New Haven can increase earnings.
How To Become a Line Cook in New Haven
To pursue a career as a Line Cook in New Haven, consider these steps:
- Education and Training: Enroll in culinary programs such as the Gateway Community College Culinary Arts Program, which offers practical and theoretical training in cooking techniques, kitchen management, and food safety.
- Alternative Training: The Lincoln Culinary Institute in nearby Shelton, CT, provides programs in Culinary Arts and International Baking and Pastry suited to aspiring cooks.
- Certification: Obtaining a ServSafe Food Handler Certification is valuable in demonstrating knowledge of food safety and sanitation.
- Advanced Certifications: For career advancement, consider certifications like those offered by the American Culinary Federation (ACF), which validate culinary skills and professionalism.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in New Haven
Several well-known employers actively seek Line Cooks in the New Haven area:
- Yale University
- SAGE Dining Services
- McDonald's
- Burger King
Establishments That Line Cooks in New Haven Work At
Line Cooks usually find roles in diverse food service establishments, including:
- Casual Dining: These establishments offer moderate wages and a dynamic work environment.
- Fast Casual: Often provide steady hours but lower pay scales compared to finer dining options.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Generally offer higher salaries due to specialized skills required and guest expectations.
- Institutional Kitchens: Places like universities or hospitals may pay competitive salaries and offer benefits.
The type of establishment strongly influences a Line Cook’s salary, with fine dining and institutional kitchens often providing the best earnings.
Related Hospitality Jobs in New Haven for Line Cooks
If you are exploring careers related to the role of a Line Cook, consider these similar positions:
These include Chef de Partie, Fry Cook, and Prep Cook — jobs that involve similar kitchen responsibilities and skills but with variations in specialization and responsibility.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in New Haven
Understanding applicable labor laws and tax regulations is essential for Line Cooks to ensure fair treatment and compliance.
- Refer to the Connecticut Department of Labor for state-specific labor laws, wage standards, and employment resources.
- The Occupational Safety and Health Administration provides federal guidelines on workplace safety to maintain a healthy kitchen environment.
- For tax information, the Internal Revenue Service offers resources on federal tax responsibilities and filing requirements.