Line Cook Salary in Savannah, GA
Line Cooks in Savannah, GA, in 2025, earn approximately $17.14 per hour, which translates to about $685.60 per week, $2,970.93 per month, and $35,651.20 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Savannah is growing at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the culinary field within the area.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Savannah, GA?
The salary for Line Cooks in Savannah varies depending on their experience level and their employer. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings for different stages in their career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.66 | $546.40 | $2,361.33 | $28,332.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.14 | $685.60 | $2,970.93 | $35,651.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.49 | $859.60 | $3,731.73 | $44,699.20 |
Do Line Cooks in Savannah Earn Tips?
Line Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work primarily happens in the kitchen, away from direct customer interaction. Their earnings usually come from hourly wages or salaries rather than gratuities.
Line Cook Salary in Savannah vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $18.00 per hour, which translates to about $37,440 per year.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Savannah earn slightly less, at about $17.14 per hour and $35,651.20 annually. This difference can be influenced by local cost of living and regional demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Savannah for Line Cooks
Looking at areas close to Savannah, Line Cook salaries typically vary as follows:
- Downtown Savannah: $17.50 per hour
- Historic District: $18.00 per hour
Working in Historic District or Downtown Savannah may offer slightly higher pay compared to other parts of the city due to the area's tourism and upscale dining establishments.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Savannah?
Several factors contribute to how much a Line Cook can earn in Savannah:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Line Cooks who master various cooking techniques and kitchen management skills tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in high-end restaurants, hotels, or resorts often pays better than casual dining or fast-food places.
- Certifications and Training: Culinary certifications or food safety training can increase employability and pay rates.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts may offer shift differentials or bonuses, increasing overall pay.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Areas with higher living costs or strong tourism industries may offer better compensation to attract skilled workers.
How To Become a Line Cook in Savannah
Starting as a Line Cook in Savannah involves a mix of training, certifications, and practical experience.
- Enroll in Local Culinary Programs: Savannah Technical College offers a comprehensive Culinary Arts Program that provides hands-on training in cooking techniques, kitchen management, and food safety.
- Advanced Training: The Culinary Institute of Savannah at Savannah Technical College offers advanced courses focusing on international cuisines and restaurant operations to help aspiring cooks refine their skills.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensures knowledge of safe food practices, essential for all food service workers.
- Professional Certification: The American Culinary Federation (ACF) Certification validates culinary skills and can enhance a Line Cook's qualifications.
- Gain Experience: Working in entry-level kitchen positions or apprenticeships helps build the practical skills necessary for success.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Savannah
Several reputable employers in Savannah are known for hiring skilled Line Cooks, including:
- SHUK
- bar.food
- McDonald's
- Live Oak Restaurant Group
- Geneva's Famous Chicken and Cornbread
Establishments That Line Cooks in Savannah Work At
Line Cooks typically work in a range of establishments, each influencing salary potential differently.
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer steady work and moderate salaries with potential for tips influencing front-of-house positions but typically not Line Cooks.
- Fast Casual and Fast Food: These places may provide high-volume experience but usually pay less than full-service restaurants.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Establishments: Higher wages and opportunities for bonuses or advancement often come with these roles.
- Hotels and Resorts: Kitchens in these venues may offer competitive pay and benefits.
The nature and prestige of the establishment play a crucial role in compensation levels for Line Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Savannah for Line Cooks
If you are interested in roles similar to Line Cook, here are related positions in the hospitality industry worth considering.
These include Fry Cook, Cook, and Chef de Partie positions, all involving culinary skills and kitchen duties similar to those of a Line Cook.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Savannah
Line Cooks should familiarize themselves with relevant labor laws and tax obligations at the federal, state, and local levels.
- Review federal labor regulations on the U.S. Department of Labor website, which covers minimum wage, overtime, and workplace safety.
- Georgia-specific labor laws can be found at the Georgia Department of Labor website to understand local employment standards.
- The City of Savannah's official site offers additional resources on labor regulations and business licensing relevant to workers and employers.