Restaurant Cook Salary in District of Columbia
Based on 8K+ workers in District of Columbia
Median Annual Salary (DC)
$46,130
$22.18/hr
vs National Average
$37,684
+22.4% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$36K – $53K
8K employed in District of Columbia
The median Restaurant Cook salary in the District of Columbia is $46,130 per year, or $22 per hour. This figure is notably higher than the national average, reflecting the cost of living and demand in the nation's capital. The salary range for this role typically falls between $36,440 and $53,020 annually.
Several factors influence the specific Restaurant Cook salary in the District of Columbia. Experience level, the type and size of the restaurant, and the culinary skills possessed all play a significant role. Location within the District and the specific responsibilities of the cook can also impact earning potential, with some roles commanding higher pay due to specialized duties or working in higher-end establishments.
Salary Distribution — Restaurant Cook in District of Columbia
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $36,440 |
| 25th percentile | $39,960 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $46,130 |
| 75th percentile | $47,890 |
| 90th percentile | $53,020 |
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 District of Columbia 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 District of Columbia vs National
| Year | Median Salary (District of Columbia) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $46,130 |
| 2026 (projected) | $47,514 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | District of Columbia Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $46,130 | $37,684 |
| 2026 (projected) | $47,514 | $38,815 |
Restaurant Cook Salary by Experience Level in District of Columbia
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $39,960 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $46,130 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $47,890 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $53,020 |
Restaurant Cook Salary in Other States
Related Restaurant Cook Salaries in District of Columbia
How other high-demand occupations in District of Columbia compare to Restaurant Cook ($46,130 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Restaurant Cook | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Waiter and Waitress in DC | $47,850 | +3.7% | $23.00/hr |
| Fast Food and Counter Worker in DC | $37,430 | -18.9% | $18.00/hr |
| Pharmacy Technician in DC | $47,410 | +2.8% | $22.79/hr |
| Nursing Assistant (CNA) in DC | $47,700 | +3.4% | $22.93/hr |
| Customer Service Representative in DC | $48,250 | +4.6% | $23.20/hr |
| Receptionist in DC | $49,060 | +6.4% | $23.59/hr |
| Home Health and Personal Care Aide in DC | $42,700 | -7.4% | $20.53/hr |
| Rehabilitation Counselor in DC | $49,680 | +7.7% | $23.88/hr |
| Construction Laborer in DC | $50,020 | +8.4% | $24.05/hr |
| Medical Assistant in DC | $51,050 | +10.7% | $24.54/hr |
| Stocker and Order Filler in DC | $39,640 | -14.1% | $19.06/hr |
| Cashier in DC | $38,880 | -15.7% | $18.69/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Restaurant Cook typically earn in the District of Columbia?
- The median salary for a Restaurant Cook in the District of Columbia is $46,130 per year, equating to about $22 per hour. The salary range generally spans from $36,440 to $53,020 annually.
What is the salary difference for Restaurant Cooks in DC compared to the national average?
- Restaurant Cooks in the District of Columbia earn approximately 22.4% more than the national average. This means their median salary of $46,130 is significantly higher than cooks in other parts of the country.
What is the hourly rate for a Restaurant Cook in Washington D.C.?
- The median hourly rate for a Restaurant Cook in the District of Columbia is $22. Considering the annual median of $46,130, this hourly figure provides a more granular look at compensation.
How many Restaurant Cooks are employed in the District of Columbia?
- There are an estimated 7,720 Restaurant Cooks employed in the District of Columbia. This substantial number indicates a robust culinary job market within the city.