Restaurant Cook Salary in California
Based on 152K+ workers in California
Median Annual Salary (CA)
$44,880
$21.58/hr
vs National Average
$37,684
+19.1% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$37K – $56K
152K employed in California
The median Restaurant Cook salary in California is $44,880 per year, which translates to approximately $22 per hour. This figure is notably higher than the national average, reflecting the state's strong culinary scene and higher cost of living. With over 152,000 individuals employed in this role, California offers significant opportunities for cooks.
Several factors influence the Restaurant Cook salary in California. Experience level plays a crucial role, with more seasoned cooks often commanding higher pay. The specific type of establishment, from casual diners to fine-dining restaurants, and the geographic location within California also impact earning potential, as does the demand for culinary skills in a particular area.
Salary Distribution — Restaurant Cook in California
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $37,100 |
| 25th percentile | $38,590 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $44,880 |
| 75th percentile | $47,330 |
| 90th percentile | $55,580 |
Top-Paying Industries for Restaurant Cook (U.S.)
Which industries pay Restaurant Cooks the most — nationwide figures (industry-level data is not available by state). Restaurant Cooks in California tend to follow these industry patterns.
| Industry (U.S.) | Median Salary | Employed (U.S.) |
|---|---|---|
| Finance and Insurance | $60,270 | — |
| Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services | $48,880 | 420 |
| Management of Companies and Enterprises | $44,570 | 610 |
| Construction | $42,890 | 100 |
| Health Care and Social Assistance | $41,090 | 2K |
Source: U.S. BLS OEWS National Industry-Specific estimates, May 2025. National figures (not state-specific).
Historical Salary Trend — Restaurant Cook in California vs National
| Year | Median Salary (California) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $44,880 |
| 2026 (projected) | $46,226 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | California Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $44,880 | $37,684 |
| 2026 (projected) | $46,226 | $38,815 |
Restaurant Cook Salary by Experience Level in California
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $38,590 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $44,880 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $47,330 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $55,580 |
Restaurant Cook Salary in Other States
Related Restaurant Cook Salaries in California
How other high-demand occupations in California compare to Restaurant Cook ($44,880 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Restaurant Cook | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fast Food and Counter Worker in CA | $42,280 | -5.8% | $20.33/hr |
| Waiter and Waitress in CA | $36,080 | -19.6% | $17.35/hr |
| Rehabilitation Counselor in CA | $44,480 | -0.9% | $21.38/hr |
| Receptionist in CA | $44,100 | -1.7% | $21.20/hr |
| Security Guard in CA | $43,240 | -3.7% | $20.79/hr |
| Stocker and Order Filler in CA | $42,870 | -4.5% | $20.61/hr |
| Nursing Assistant (CNA) in CA | $47,630 | +6.1% | $22.90/hr |
| Customer Service Representative in CA | $49,560 | +10.4% | $23.83/hr |
| Tutor in CA | $49,570 | +10.5% | $23.83/hr |
| Medical Assistant in CA | $49,660 | +10.7% | $23.88/hr |
| Dental Assistant in CA | $50,110 | +11.7% | $24.09/hr |
| Retail Salesperson in CA | $38,440 | -14.3% | $18.48/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical salary range for a Restaurant Cook in California?
- The salary range for a Restaurant Cook in California generally falls between $37,100 and $55,580 annually. The median salary sits at $44,880 per year, offering a central point for earning potential within this range.
How does the average Restaurant Cook salary in California compare to the rest of the US?
- Restaurant Cooks in California earn significantly more than the national average. Their median salary is 19.1% higher than the national median, highlighting the increased earning potential in the state.
What is the hourly wage for a Restaurant Cook in California?
- On average, a Restaurant Cook in California earns about $22 per hour. This hourly rate aligns with the annual median salary of $44,880, providing a useful metric for hourly workers.
How many Restaurant Cooks are employed in California?
- California has a substantial number of employed Restaurant Cooks, with approximately 152,250 individuals working in this capacity. This large number indicates a robust job market for culinary professionals in the state.