Restaurant Cook Salary in Delaware
Based on 5K+ workers in Delaware
Median Annual Salary (DE)
$37,840
$18.19/hr
vs National Average
$37,684
+0.4% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$31K – $47K
5K employed in Delaware
The median Restaurant Cook salary in Delaware is $37,840 per year, which translates to approximately $18 per hour. This figure is slightly above the national average by 0.4%, indicating a competitive job market for these culinary professionals within the state. With 5,280 individuals employed in this role, Delaware offers a substantial number of opportunities.
Several factors can influence a Restaurant Cook salary in Delaware. Experience level, the specific type of restaurant, and its location within the state all play a role in determining compensation. Cooks in fine-dining establishments or those with specialized culinary skills may command higher wages than those in casual dining settings.
Salary Distribution — Restaurant Cook in Delaware
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $31,250 |
| 25th percentile | $35,410 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $37,840 |
| 75th percentile | $44,960 |
| 90th percentile | $46,940 |
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 Delaware 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 Delaware vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Delaware) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $37,840 |
| 2026 (projected) | $38,975 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Delaware Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $37,840 | $37,684 |
| 2026 (projected) | $38,975 | $38,815 |
Restaurant Cook Salary by Experience Level in Delaware
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $35,410 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $37,840 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $44,960 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $46,940 |
Restaurant Cook Salary in Other States
Related Restaurant Cook Salaries in Delaware
How other high-demand occupations in Delaware compare to Restaurant Cook ($37,840 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Restaurant Cook | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Waiter and Waitress in DE | $36,880 | -2.5% | $17.73/hr |
| Fast Food and Counter Worker in DE | $31,300 | -17.3% | $15.05/hr |
| Stocker and Order Filler in DE | $37,420 | -1.1% | $17.99/hr |
| Security Guard in DE | $36,360 | -3.9% | $17.48/hr |
| Receptionist in DE | $36,310 | -4.0% | $17.46/hr |
| Retail Salesperson in DE | $35,360 | -6.6% | $17.00/hr |
| Tutor in DE | $34,730 | -8.2% | $16.70/hr |
| Home Health and Personal Care Aide in DE | $34,320 | -9.3% | $16.50/hr |
| Nursing Assistant (CNA) in DE | $42,030 | +11.1% | $20.21/hr |
| Cashier in DE | $33,490 | -11.5% | $16.10/hr |
| Medical Assistant in DE | $44,490 | +17.6% | $21.39/hr |
| Construction Laborer in DE | $45,550 | +20.4% | $21.90/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average annual salary for a Restaurant Cook in Delaware?
- The median Restaurant Cook salary in Delaware is $37,840 annually. This means half of all cooks in the state earn more than this amount, and half earn less. The salary range for these positions falls between $31,250 and $46,940 per year.
How does the Restaurant Cook salary in Delaware compare to the national average?
- The Restaurant Cook salary in Delaware is slightly higher than the national average, by 0.4%. The median annual salary in Delaware is $37,840, while the national median is very close. This suggests a relatively stable pay scale for cooks across the country.
What is the typical hourly wage for a Restaurant Cook in Delaware?
- On an hourly basis, the median Restaurant Cook salary in Delaware is around $18 per hour. This hourly rate aligns with the annual median of $37,840 and falls within the general range of $15 to $22.50 per hour.
Is there a significant difference in pay for Restaurant Cooks based on experience in Delaware?
- Yes, experience can significantly impact a Restaurant Cook salary in Delaware. While the general range is $31,250 to $46,940 annually, entry-level cooks will likely earn closer to the lower end, and experienced chefs in higher-end establishments could exceed the $46,940 mark.