Line Cook Salary in San Diego, CA
Line Cooks in San Diego, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $20.58 per hour, which translates to about $823.20 per week, $3,567.20 per month, and $42,806.40 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in San Diego is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy and expanding hospitality industry in the region.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in San Diego, CA?
The salary of a Line Cook in San Diego varies depending on experience and skill level. Below is an overview of earnings at different stages of a Line Cook’s career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $17.25 | $690.00 | $2,983.33 | $35,760.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.78 | $831.20 | $3,588.53 | $43,206.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $24.65 | $986.00 | $4,263.33 | $51,272.00 |
Do Line Cooks in San Diego Earn Tips?
Line Cooks generally do not earn tips. Their compensation comes primarily from hourly wages or salaries since they usually work behind the scenes and have limited direct customer interaction.
Line Cook Salary in San Diego vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of about $18.04 per hour, which translates to roughly $37,523.20 annually.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in San Diego earn more, at about $20.58 per hour and $42,806.40 annually. This likely reflects San Diego’s cost of living and its vibrant food industry.
Highest-Paying Areas Near San Diego for Line Cooks
Nearby areas vary slightly in terms of compensation for Line Cooks:
- Gaslamp Quarter: $21.50 per hour
- La Jolla: $22.00 per hour
Line Cooks working in La Jolla and Gaslamp Quarter may enjoy slightly higher wages due to the upscale nature and clientele of these neighborhoods.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in San Diego?
Experience and skill level play a major role in salary differences for Line Cooks. Skilled cooks who handle complex dishes or multiple stations typically earn more.
The type of establishment also matters; high-end restaurants and hotels often pay more than casual dining or fast-food operations.
Work hours and shifts can impact earnings, with night or weekend shifts sometimes commanding premium pay.
Certifications and training in food safety or culinary techniques can enhance earning potential.
How To Become a Line Cook in San Diego
Breaking into the role of a Line Cook involves several important steps:
- Gain Culinary Education: Enrolling in culinary arts programs, such as those offered at San Diego Culinary Institute or Grossmont College Culinary Arts Program, can provide essential cooking skills and industry knowledge.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like ServSafe Food Handler Certification and the mandatory California Food Handler Card are often required by employers to ensure compliance with health regulations.
- Acquire Hands-On Experience: Starting with internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level kitchen jobs helps build practical skills.
- Develop Strong Work Ethics and Teamwork: Kitchen environments require collaboration, stamina, and organization which are crucial for success as a Line Cook.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in San Diego
Several renowned employers in the San Diego area actively hire Line Cooks:
- Hyatt
- Din Tai Fung
- The Santaluz Club
- FLIK Hospitality Group
- Marriott Vacations Worldwide
Establishments That Line Cooks in San Diego Work At
Line Cooks commonly work in a range of food service establishments, including:
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: These environments often provide steady work but with moderate pay scales.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Hotels: Kitchens here demand higher skill levels and reward cooks with better compensation.
- Resort and Country Clubs: These establishments may offer enhanced benefits and wages.
- Catering Companies and Event Venues: These roles can vary widely depending on event clientele and scale.
The type of setting significantly influences salary, with more prestigious or specialized kitchens generally offering greater compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in San Diego for Line Cooks
If you are exploring careers related to Line Cook, the following roles may be of interest:
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in San Diego
Line Cooks should familiarize themselves with applicable state and local labor regulations and tax responsibilities to navigate their employment conditions.
- Refer to the California Department of Industrial Relations for state labor laws and workplace standards.
- The City of San Diego Official Website provides information on local ordinances and employment resources.
- National labor statistics and tax details can be found at the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.