Restaurant Cook Salary in Connecticut
Based on 15K+ workers in Connecticut
Median Annual Salary (CT)
$39,480
$18.98/hr
vs National Average
$37,684
+4.8% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$35K – $49K
15K employed in Connecticut
The median salary for a Restaurant Cook in Connecticut is approximately $39,480 per year, translating to an hourly wage of $19. This figure is notably higher than the national average, by 4.8%, reflecting the specific economic conditions and demand within the state. There are currently 14,830 Restaurant Cooks employed in Connecticut.
Several factors influence the Restaurant Cook salary in Connecticut. Experience level plays a significant role, with more seasoned cooks commanding higher pay. The specific type of establishment, such as fine dining versus casual eateries, and the geographic location within Connecticut can also impact earnings. Additionally, specialized culinary skills or certifications may lead to better compensation.
Salary Distribution — Restaurant Cook in Connecticut
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $35,460 |
| 25th percentile | $37,060 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $39,480 |
| 75th percentile | $45,950 |
| 90th percentile | $49,420 |
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 Connecticut 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 Connecticut vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Connecticut) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $39,480 |
| 2026 (projected) | $40,664 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Connecticut Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $39,480 | $37,684 |
| 2026 (projected) | $40,664 | $38,815 |
Restaurant Cook Salary by Experience Level in Connecticut
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $37,060 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $39,480 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $45,950 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $49,420 |
Restaurant Cook Salary in Other States
Related Restaurant Cook Salaries in Connecticut
How other high-demand occupations in Connecticut compare to Restaurant Cook ($39,480 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Restaurant Cook | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Waiter and Waitress in CT | $37,770 | -4.3% | $18.16/hr |
| Fast Food and Counter Worker in CT | $35,380 | -10.4% | $17.01/hr |
| Security Guard in CT | $39,920 | +1.1% | $19.19/hr |
| Home Health and Personal Care Aide in CT | $38,990 | -1.2% | $18.75/hr |
| Stocker and Order Filler in CT | $40,590 | +2.8% | $19.51/hr |
| Receptionist in CT | $40,630 | +2.9% | $19.53/hr |
| Retail Salesperson in CT | $36,490 | -7.6% | $17.54/hr |
| Cashier in CT | $35,550 | -10.0% | $17.09/hr |
| Nursing Assistant (CNA) in CT | $44,790 | +13.4% | $21.53/hr |
| Real Estate Sales Agent in CT | $46,770 | +18.5% | $22.49/hr |
| Pharmacy Technician in CT | $47,050 | +19.2% | $22.62/hr |
| Medical Assistant in CT | $47,430 | +20.1% | $22.80/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average salary for a Restaurant Cook in Connecticut?
- The median salary for a Restaurant Cook in Connecticut is $39,480 per year. This equates to an hourly rate of $19.
What is the typical salary range for a Restaurant Cook in Connecticut?
- Most Restaurant Cooks in Connecticut earn between $35,460 and $49,420 annually. This range highlights the variation in compensation based on factors like experience and employer.
How does the salary for a Restaurant Cook in Connecticut compare to the national average?
- The Restaurant Cook salary in Connecticut is 4.8% higher than the national average. This indicates that cooks in Connecticut are earning more on average than their counterparts across the United States.
How many Restaurant Cooks are employed in Connecticut?
- There are approximately 14,830 Restaurant Cooks currently employed in Connecticut. This number reflects the demand for culinary professionals within the state's food service industry.