Pastry Cook Salary in Los Angeles, CA
Pastry Cooks in Los Angeles, CA in 2025 earn an average of $22.55 per hour, which equates to about $902.00 per week, $3,908.67 per month, and $46,904.00 per year.
The job market for Pastry Cooks in Los Angeles is showing positive growth at approximately 5% per year, indicating a healthy demand for skilled professionals in the baking and pastry field.
How Much Does a Pastry Cook Make in Los Angeles, CA?
The salary of a Pastry Cook in Los Angeles varies depending on experience and skill level. Below is an overview of what you can expect to earn at different stages of your career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $17.45 | $698.00 | $3,029.33 | $36,352.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $22.55 | $902.00 | $3,908.67 | $46,904.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $29.14 | $1,165.60 | $5,035.47 | $60,531.20 |
Do Pastry Cooks in Los Angeles Earn Tips?
Pastry Cooks generally do not earn tips as their focus is primarily on preparation and baking behind the scenes rather than direct customer service.
Pastry Cook Salary in Los Angeles, CA vs. National Average
Nationally, Pastry Cooks earn about $20.27 per hour, which is approximately $42,161.60 annually.
Comparatively, Pastry Cooks in Los Angeles earn a higher hourly wage of $22.55 and an annual salary of $46,904.00, reflecting the region's higher cost of living and demand for skilled culinary professionals.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Los Angeles for Pastry Cooks
Nearby areas offer competitive salaries for Pastry Cooks, slightly higher than Los Angeles averages:
- Beverly Hills: $24.25 per hour
- Hawthorne: $23.12 per hour
These areas generally provide about 5-7% higher hourly pay than Los Angeles itself, suggesting enticing opportunities for those willing to commute.
What Influences a Pastry Cook’s Salary in Los Angeles?
The salary of a Pastry Cook in Los Angeles can be influenced by several factors that contribute to wage differences among professionals:
- Experience and Skill Level: Those skilled in advanced pastry techniques or with years of experience typically earn more.
- Type of Establishment: Pastry Cooks working in upscale restaurants, luxury hotels, or specialty bakeries often receive higher compensation.
- Certifications: Holding certifications such as Certified Pastry Culinarian can improve earning potential.
- Shift and Hours: Working night or weekend shifts may include additional compensation.
- Local Cost of Living: The high living expenses in Los Angeles directly affect salary levels.
How To Become a Pastry Cook in Los Angeles
To pursue a career as a Pastry Cook in Los Angeles, consider the following pathways:
- Enroll in Culinary Training Programs: Institutions like Los Angeles Trade-Technical College offer comprehensive Culinary Arts programs with pastry specialization, providing essential hands-on experience.
- Consider Specialized Pastry Courses: Schools like Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts provide focused training on classical and modern baking techniques.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often required and valued by employers.
- Earn Industry Certifications: The Certified Pastry Culinarian (CPC) credential from the American Culinary Federation validates expertise and can enhance your career prospects.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working in bakeries, restaurants, or catering services helps develop necessary skills and advance career opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Pastry Cooks in Los Angeles
Several well-known establishments in Los Angeles actively seek skilled Pastry Cooks, including:
- Four Seasons
- The Los Angeles Country Club
- Specialty Restaurants
Establishments That Pastry Cooks in Los Angeles Work At
Pastry Cooks find employment in a variety of establishments across Los Angeles, including:
- Upscale Restaurants and Hotels: These locations often offer higher salaries and benefits due to the premium clientele and quality expected.
- Specialty Bakeries: Focused on artisan and gourmet products, these bakeries provide opportunities for creative pastry work and competitive pay.
- Catering Companies: Offering event-based work that can vary seasonally, sometimes with higher peak earnings.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Eateries: Typically provide more entry-level opportunities with moderate salary ranges.
The type of establishment can significantly impact salary, with luxury venues typically offering the best compensation packages.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Los Angeles for Pastry Cooks
If you are interested in careers similar to Pastry Cook, here are several related roles that build upon culinary and pastry skills:
These include Pastry Chef, Pastry Cook itself for advancement, and Chef roles, each offering different scopes and salary potential.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Pastry Cooks in Los Angeles
Pastry Cooks in Los Angeles should be aware of various labor laws and tax regulations that affect their work and earnings.
- California Department of Industrial Relations offers detailed information on state labor laws and regulations.
- The California Employment Development Department provides resources on employment services and payroll taxes.
- For federal labor laws and employee rights, the U.S. Department of Labor is an essential resource.