Restaurant Cook Salary in Maine
Based on 5K+ workers in Maine
Median Annual Salary (ME)
$45,290
$21.77/hr
vs National Average
$37,684
+20.2% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$38K – $50K
5K employed in Maine
The median annual salary for a Restaurant Cook in Maine is $45,290, which translates to approximately $22 per hour. This figure is notably higher than the national average, with Maine cooks earning 20.2% more. Currently, there are 5,130 individuals employed in this role across the state.
Several factors can influence the Restaurant Cook salary in Maine. Experience levels play a significant role, with more seasoned professionals typically commanding higher wages. The specific type and size of the restaurant, its location within Maine, and the demand for culinary skills in that particular area also contribute to variations in pay.
Salary Distribution — Restaurant Cook in Maine
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $38,040 |
| 25th percentile | $39,800 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $45,290 |
| 75th percentile | $47,720 |
| 90th percentile | $49,530 |
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 Maine 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 Maine vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Maine) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $45,290 |
| 2026 (projected) | $46,649 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Maine Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $45,290 | $37,684 |
| 2026 (projected) | $46,649 | $38,815 |
Restaurant Cook Salary by Experience Level in Maine
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $39,800 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $45,290 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $47,720 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $49,530 |
Restaurant Cook Salary in Other States
Related Restaurant Cook Salaries in Maine
How other high-demand occupations in Maine compare to Restaurant Cook ($45,290 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Restaurant Cook | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Waiter and Waitress in ME | $43,370 | -4.2% | $20.85/hr |
| Fast Food and Counter Worker in ME | $34,710 | -23.4% | $16.69/hr |
| Pharmacy Technician in ME | $45,400 | +0.2% | $21.83/hr |
| Audio and Video Technician in ME | $46,080 | +1.7% | $22.15/hr |
| Construction Laborer in ME | $46,430 | +2.5% | $22.32/hr |
| Tutor in ME | $46,720 | +3.2% | $22.46/hr |
| Nursing Assistant (CNA) in ME | $47,070 | +3.9% | $22.63/hr |
| Customer Service Representative in ME | $47,160 | +4.1% | $22.67/hr |
| Medical Assistant in ME | $47,580 | +5.1% | $22.88/hr |
| Receptionist in ME | $42,440 | -6.3% | $20.40/hr |
| Firefighter in ME | $48,290 | +6.6% | $23.22/hr |
| Title Examiner in ME | $48,900 | +8.0% | $23.51/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical salary range for a Restaurant Cook in Maine?
- The salary range for a Restaurant Cook in Maine generally falls between $38,040 and $49,530 annually. This means most cooks in the state earn within this spectrum, with the median sitting at $45,290.
How does the median Restaurant Cook salary in Maine compare to the national average?
- Restaurant Cooks in Maine earn significantly more than their counterparts nationally. The median salary in Maine is 20.2% higher than the national average, offering a more substantial income for those in the role.
How many Restaurant Cooks are employed in Maine?
- As of recent data, there are approximately 5,130 Restaurant Cooks employed throughout the state of Maine. This indicates a solid job market for individuals in this culinary profession.
Is the hourly wage for a Restaurant Cook in Maine competitive?
- Yes, the hourly wage is competitive, averaging around $22 per hour. This figure is derived from the median annual salary of $45,290 and reflects a strong earning potential compared to national averages.