Line Cook Salary in Philadelphia, PA
Line Cooks in Philadelphia, PA, in 2025, earn approximately $17.16 per hour, which translates to about $686.40 per week, $2,974.40 per month, and $35,692.80 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Philadelphia is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for those entering the culinary workforce in this city.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Philadelphia, PA?
The salary of a Line Cook in Philadelphia varies depending on experience and establishment, but here’s what you can expect at different levels of expertise.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.55 | $542.00 | $2,345.33 | $28,184.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.16 | $686.40 | $2,974.40 | $35,692.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.74 | $869.60 | $3,752.53 | $45,219.20 |
Do Line Cooks in Philadelphia Earn Tips?
Line Cooks generally do not earn tips as their primary role is focused on food preparation behind the scenes rather than direct customer service. Their earnings come mainly from their hourly wages or salary.
Line Cook Salary in Philadelphia vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $18.02 per hour, translating to about $37,481.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Philadelphia earn slightly less per hour ($17.16 vs. $18.02) and per year ($35,692.80 vs. $37,481.60).
This difference may reflect regional cost of living and employer demand within Philadelphia compared to other parts of the country.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Philadelphia for Line Cooks
Looking at specific areas in Philadelphia, salary levels for Line Cooks vary slightly as follows:
- Center City: $18.50 per hour
- Old City: $19.00 per hour
Line Cooks working in Old City tend to earn the highest hourly wages close to Philadelphia, reflecting perhaps a higher concentration of upscale dining establishments in this area.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Philadelphia?
Several factors can affect how much a Line Cook earns in Philadelphia:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Line Cooks with diverse cooking techniques or specialized skills tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants, hotels, or catering services typically offers better pay than fast food or casual dining.
- Shift and Hours Worked: Evening, weekend, or holiday shifts may offer higher pay rates or overtime.
- Education and Certifications: Having culinary training or certifications related to food safety and cooking can increase salary prospects.
- Local Demand and Competition: Areas with a competitive food scene may offer better wages to attract skilled kitchen staff.
How To Become a Line Cook in Philadelphia
To pursue a career as a Line Cook in Philadelphia, consider the following steps:
- Complete Formal Culinary Training: Enrolling in programs like the Culinary Arts Program at The Restaurant School at Walnut Hill College or earning an Associate Degree in Culinary Arts at the Community College of Philadelphia can provide essential knowledge and hands-on practice.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and the Philadelphia Food Establishment Personnel Food Safety Certification are commonly required and demonstrate your commitment to safe food handling.
- Gain Practical Experience: Start in entry-level kitchen roles or apprenticeships to build your cooking skills and kitchen efficiency.
- Network and Build Reputation: Connect with local chefs and restaurant professionals to enhance your chances of employment.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Philadelphia
Some of the notable employers known for hiring Line Cooks in Philadelphia include:
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Starr Restaurants
- Garces Group
Establishments That Line Cooks in Philadelphia Work At
Line Cooks work across various types of food establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer moderate salaries and often provide a friendly, dynamic work environment.
- Fast Casual Chains: Generally provide steady hours with competitive wages but usually lower than upscale dining.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Restaurants: Often pay higher wages and expect higher skill levels and speed from Line Cooks.
- Hotels and Catering Services: These may offer better pay and additional benefits, depending on the size and prestige of the operation.
The nature of the establishment significantly influences pay scale, with prestigious venues typically offering higher salaries.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Philadelphia for Line Cooks
If you’re interested in careers related to Line Cooking, here are a few options worth exploring:
These include Cook, Fry Cook, and Commis Chef, which involve related culinary and kitchen responsibilities that often serve as stepping stones within the hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Philadelphia
Line Cooks should stay informed about labor regulations and tax obligations for their area to ensure rights and compliance:
- Visit the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry for state-specific labor laws and regulations.
- The City of Philadelphia official website provides local resources and ordinance details.
- For workplace safety standards, consult the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.