Line Cook Salary in San Francisco, CA
Line Cooks in San Francisco, CA, in 2026, earn approximately $23.03 per hour, which translates to about $921.20 per week, $3,991.87 per month, and $47,902.40 per year.
The job demand for Line Cooks is increasing steadily with a growth rate of 6% per year, indicating a promising outlook and expanding opportunities in the culinary industry within San Francisco.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in San Francisco, CA?
The salary of a Line Cook in San Francisco varies depending on experience and skill level. Below is an overview of typical earnings by experience tier.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $23.65 | $946.00 | $4,093.33 | $49,192.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $23.03 | $921.20 | $3,990.13 | $47,902.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $28.20 | $1,128.00 | $4,880.00 | $58,560.00 |
Do Line Cooks in San Francisco Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips as their role is mostly behind the scenes preparing food rather than direct customer interaction. Their income is largely based on wages and salaries.
Line Cook Salary in San Francisco vs. National Average
The national average salary for a Line Cook is about $17.19 per hour or roughly $35,755.20 annually.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in San Francisco earn considerably more, reflecting the higher cost of living and demand for skilled culinary professionals in this region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near San Francisco for Line Cooks
Nearby locations often offer competitive wages for Line Cooks, including:
- Lake Forest: $21.88 per hour
- Los Altos: $21.71 per hour
While these nearby areas offer good pay, San Francisco generally remains a top-paying market for Line Cooks.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in San Francisco?
Several factors can affect how much a Line Cook earns in San Francisco:
- Experience and Skills: More experienced Line Cooks with advanced culinary skills or specialization tend to command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale restaurants or hotels generally pays more than fast casual or chain eateries.
- Shift Timing: Night or weekend shifts may include shift differentials that boost earnings.
- Education and Certifications: Formal culinary training or certifications can enhance salary opportunities.
- Union Representation: Some establishments with unionized kitchen staff may offer better wages and benefits.
How To Become a Line Cook in San Francisco
Becoming a Line Cook in San Francisco involves several important steps to build qualifications and skills:
- Obtain Culinary Training: Attending culinary schools such as San Francisco Cooking School or City College of San Francisco Culinary Arts and Hospitality Studies can provide valuable hands-on experience and instruction.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are typically required to ensure compliance with health regulations.
- Consider Culinary Federation Credentials: The Certified Culinarian (CC) credential offered by the American Culinary Federation validates essential culinary knowledge for entry-level cooks.
- Gain Practical Experience: Starting in entry-level kitchen positions or internships helps develop skills and opens paths to advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in San Francisco
Leading employers in San Francisco that often seek experienced Line Cooks include:
- Quince
- Saison
- Zuni Café
- Tartine Manufactory
- The Slanted Door
Establishments That Line Cooks in San Francisco Work At
Line Cooks find employment in a wide range of establishments such as casual dining restaurants, fast casual eateries, fine dining restaurants, hotels, and catering companies.
The type of establishment can greatly influence salary levels. For example, fine dining venues often offer higher pay and more opportunities for skill development, while fast casual places may provide more entry-level opportunities but at lower wages.
Related Hospitality Jobs in San Francisco for Line Cooks
If you are exploring related career options in the hospitality and culinary field, consider these similar roles:
These include Chef de Partie, Commis Chef, and Fry Cook—roles that can serve as natural career progressions from a Line Cook position.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in San Francisco
Line Cooks in San Francisco must be familiar with relevant federal, state, and local employment laws to understand their rights and responsibilities.
- Visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics (bls.gov) for detailed occupational outlook and wage data.
- For California state labor laws and workplace regulations, consult dir.ca.gov.
- San Francisco-specific employment standards and regulations can be found at sfgov.org.