Restaurant Cook Salary in Massachusetts
Based on 30K+ workers in Massachusetts
Median Annual Salary (MA)
$45,600
$21.92/hr
vs National Average
$37,684
+21.0% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$37K – $59K
30K employed in Massachusetts
The median Restaurant Cook salary in Massachusetts is $45,600 annually, translating to an hourly rate of $22. This figure is 21.0% higher than the national average, reflecting the strong culinary job market in the state. With 29,570 individuals employed in this role, Massachusetts offers significant opportunities for cooks.
Several factors influence the Restaurant Cook salary in Massachusetts, including years of experience, the specific type of establishment, and geographic location within the state. Cooks in fine-dining restaurants or busy urban centers like Boston may earn more than those in casual dining or smaller towns. Skill level and specialized culinary training can also lead to higher compensation.
Salary Distribution — Restaurant Cook in Massachusetts
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $36,540 |
| 25th percentile | $38,370 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $45,600 |
| 75th percentile | $49,040 |
| 90th percentile | $58,590 |
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 Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Massachusetts) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $45,600 |
| 2026 (projected) | $46,968 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Massachusetts Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $45,600 | $37,684 |
| 2026 (projected) | $46,968 | $38,815 |
Restaurant Cook Salary by Experience Level in Massachusetts
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $38,370 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $45,600 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $49,040 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $58,590 |
Restaurant Cook Salary in Other States
Related Restaurant Cook Salaries in Massachusetts
How other high-demand occupations in Massachusetts compare to Restaurant Cook ($45,600 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Restaurant Cook | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Waiter and Waitress in MA | $38,460 | -15.7% | $18.49/hr |
| Fast Food and Counter Worker in MA | $35,850 | -21.4% | $17.24/hr |
| Pharmacy Technician in MA | $46,470 | +1.9% | $22.34/hr |
| Security Guard in MA | $44,670 | -2.0% | $21.48/hr |
| Nursing Assistant (CNA) in MA | $46,680 | +2.4% | $22.44/hr |
| Rehabilitation Counselor in MA | $47,320 | +3.8% | $22.75/hr |
| Receptionist in MA | $43,870 | -3.8% | $21.09/hr |
| Customer Service Representative in MA | $49,120 | +7.7% | $23.62/hr |
| Tutor in MA | $49,430 | +8.4% | $23.76/hr |
| Medical Assistant in MA | $49,460 | +8.5% | $23.78/hr |
| Home Health and Personal Care Aide in MA | $40,910 | -10.3% | $19.67/hr |
| Stocker and Order Filler in MA | $37,540 | -17.7% | $18.05/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical salary range for a Restaurant Cook in Massachusetts?
- The salary range for a Restaurant Cook in Massachusetts typically falls between $36,540 and $58,590 per year. The median salary sits comfortably in the middle at $45,600 annually.
How does the Restaurant Cook salary in Massachusetts compare to the national average?
- A Restaurant Cook in Massachusetts earns approximately 21.0% more than the national average. This means that the median salary of $45,600 in Massachusetts is significantly higher compared to the national median.
What is the hourly pay for a Restaurant Cook in Massachusetts?
- The average hourly pay for a Restaurant Cook in Massachusetts is $22. This is derived from the median annual salary of $45,600.
How many people are employed as Restaurant Cooks in Massachusetts?
- There are currently 29,570 individuals employed as Restaurant Cooks in Massachusetts. This indicates a substantial number of job opportunities within the state.