Line Cook Salary in St. Petersburg, FL
Line Cooks in St. Petersburg, FL, in 2025, earn approximately $18.38 per hour, which translates to about $735.20 per week, $3,185.87 per month, and $38,230.40 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in St. Petersburg is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the local culinary scene.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in St. Petersburg, FL?
The salary of a Line Cook in St. Petersburg varies depending on experience level and employer, but the following figures provide a general overview.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.42 | $616.80 | $2,680.80 | $32,073.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.38 | $735.20 | $3,185.87 | $38,230.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.90 | $876.00 | $3,790.00 | $45,552.00 |
Do Line Cooks in St. Petersburg Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips directly as their work is mostly behind the scenes in the kitchen. However, some establishments might offer tip-sharing or bonuses, but generally, most of their earnings come from their salary or hourly wage.
Line Cook Salary in St. Petersburg vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of $18.38 per hour and approximately $38,230.40 per year.
In comparison, Line Cooks in St. Petersburg earn roughly the same as the national average with an average hourly wage of $18.38 and an annual salary around $38,230.40.
This parity reflects the competitive culinary market in St. Petersburg as well as typical living costs for the area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near St. Petersburg for Line Cooks
Nearby districts where Line Cooks tend to earn higher wages include:
- Downtown: $19.15 per hour
- Grand Central District: $18.87 per hour
These areas may offer slightly better pay due to higher demand or the presence of upscale restaurants and hospitality venues.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in St. Petersburg?
Several factors impact how much a Line Cook can earn in St. Petersburg:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Line Cooks with strong skills and knowledge of diverse cuisines tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels typically pays more than casual or fast food places.
- Kitchen Role and Responsibilities: Line Cooks who take charge of specific stations or demonstrate leadership may receive higher pay.
- Certifications and Training: Culinary certifications and food safety credentials can enhance earning potential.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Night shifts, weekends, or holiday work often come with premium pay.
How To Become a Line Cook in St. Petersburg
Starting a career as a Line Cook in St. Petersburg involves several steps to boost employability and career growth:
- Enroll in Culinary Training Programs: Schools like Hollins High School Culinary Arts Program and Pinellas Technical College Culinary Arts Program provide foundational culinary skills and practical training essential for Line Cooks.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensure adherence to safety standards required by most employers.
- Consider Professional Culinary Certifications: Earning a Certified Culinarian (CC) designation from the American Culinary Federation demonstrates commitment and culinary competence.
- Gain Experience: Entry-level positions, internships, or apprenticeships in kitchens provide valuable real-world cooking experience.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in St. Petersburg
Popular local employers seeking Line Cooks include:
- First Watch
- Exceed LLC
- Hilton
- 23 Restaurant Services
Establishments That Line Cooks in St. Petersburg Work At
Line Cooks work in a variety of culinary settings, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often pay moderate wages with opportunities for overtime hours.
- Fast Casual Eateries: Typically have faster-paced environments with hourly wages near the local average.
- Hotels and Resorts: May offer higher salaries and benefits related to scale and clientele.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Usually provide higher pay reflective of skill requirements and prestige.
The type of establishment greatly affects salary, with fine dining and upscale hotels offering better pay compared to fast casual or quick-service venues.
Related Hospitality Jobs in St. Petersburg for Line Cooks
If you are interested in roles related to Line Cooking, here are some similar careers to consider:
These include Chef de Partie, Fry Cook, and Kitchen Manager, offering alternative paths within the culinary industry with different responsibilities and salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in St. Petersburg
Line Cooks should be aware of federal, state, and local labor laws that affect their employment rights and tax obligations. Useful resources include: