Line Cook Salary in Pennsylvania
Line Cooks in Pennsylvania, in 2025, earn approximately $17.03 per hour, which translates to about $681.20 per week, $2,951.87 per month, and $35,422.40 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Pennsylvania is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting an increasing need for skilled kitchen staff across a variety of food service establishments.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Pennsylvania?
The salary of a Line Cook in Pennsylvania varies by experience and skill level. Below is an overview of earnings across entry-level, mid-level, and top earners.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.27 | $530.80 | $2,303.47 | $27,653.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.03 | $681.20 | $2,951.87 | $35,422.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.86 | $874.40 | $3,790.13 | $45,428.80 |
Do Line Cooks in Pennsylvania Earn Tips?
Line Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is primarily behind the scenes preparing food. Their compensation mainly comes from hourly wages and occasionally bonuses depending on the employer.
Line Cook Salary in Pennsylvania vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $17.92 per hour, translating to about $37,273.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Pennsylvania earn slightly less hourly, at about $17.03 per hour and $35,422.40 annually. This difference can be influenced by local living costs and demand for culinary labor.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Pennsylvania for Line Cooks
Some nearby cities offer higher salaries for Line Cooks, including:
- Lancaster: $18.91 per hour
- Allentown: $19.04 per hour
These areas represent some of the best-paying markets close to Pennsylvania for skilled Line Cooks seeking higher wages.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Pennsylvania?
The salary of a Line Cook in Pennsylvania is influenced by several factors that can increase or limit earning potential.
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Line Cooks with advanced culinary skills tend to command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Working in fine dining or upscale restaurants generally pays more than fast food or casual dining venues.
- Shift and Hours Worked: Night shifts, weekends, and overtime can increase total earnings.
- Geographic Location: Larger urban areas or high-demand zones often offer better pay to attract talent.
- Certifications: Food safety and culinary certifications can raise a Line Cook’s value to employers.
How To Become a Line Cook in Pennsylvania
Here are several steps to pursue a career as a Line Cook in Pennsylvania:
- Complete Culinary Training: Attend programs like those at the Pennsylvania School of Culinary Arts in Lancaster or The Restaurant School at Walnut Hill College in Philadelphia, which offer hands-on culinary skills and knowledge.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: Obtain certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification, commonly required by employers to ensure compliance with hygiene standards.
- Gain Experience: Work in kitchens to learn prep work, cooking techniques, and kitchen procedures.
- Consider Professional Credentials: Advanced certifications like the Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation can enhance credibility and job prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Pennsylvania
Prominent employers seeking Line Cooks throughout Pennsylvania include:
- Lancaster Country Club
- P.F. Chang's
- Primanti Bros.
- Wegmans Food Markets
- Eat'n Park Hospitality Group
Establishments That Line Cooks in Pennsylvania Work At
Line Cooks find employment in varied food service establishments such as:
- Casual Restaurants: Typically provide steady hours with moderate wages.
- Fast Casual Chains: Offer higher-volume environments with good opportunities for advancement, though often at entry-level pay.
- Fine Dining: Kitchens in upscale restaurants usually pay higher salaries due to skill level requirements and more intricate cooking.
- Hotels and Resorts: These establishments may provide benefits and better wages compared to smaller venues.
The type of establishment significantly affects salary, with fine dining and hotel kitchens usually offering the best pay.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Pennsylvania for Line Cooks
If you are interested in similar roles to Line Cook, several related hospitality careers exist that might suit your skills and aspirations.
These include Fry Cook, Cook, and Chef de Partie roles, which share responsibilities and skills with the Line Cook position.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Pennsylvania
Line Cooks should be aware of important labor laws and tax regulations to understand their rights and obligations in Pennsylvania.
- Check specific state labor laws and regulations on the Official website of the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry.
- For workplace safety standards and guidelines, consult the Federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration website.