Restaurant Cook Salary in New Jersey
Based on 29K+ workers in New Jersey
Median Annual Salary (NJ)
$38,460
$18.49/hr
vs National Average
$37,684
+2.1% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$32K – $50K
29K employed in New Jersey
The median Restaurant Cook salary in New Jersey is $38,460 per year, which translates to approximately $18 per hour. This figure is 2.1% higher than the national average for this occupation, indicating a slightly more favorable earning potential for cooks in the Garden State.
Several factors influence a Restaurant Cook salary in New Jersey, including years of experience, the specific type of restaurant, its location within the state, and the level of responsibility. Those with extensive culinary skills and experience in fine dining establishments typically command higher wages than entry-level cooks. The range for these positions is between $32,220 and $50,010 annually.
Salary Distribution — Restaurant Cook in New Jersey
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $32,220 |
| 25th percentile | $35,880 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $38,460 |
| 75th percentile | $45,600 |
| 90th percentile | $50,010 |
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 New Jersey 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 New Jersey vs National
| Year | Median Salary (New Jersey) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $38,460 |
| 2026 (projected) | $39,614 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | New Jersey Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $38,460 | $37,684 |
| 2026 (projected) | $39,614 | $38,815 |
Restaurant Cook Salary by Experience Level in New Jersey
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $35,880 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $38,460 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $45,600 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $50,010 |
Restaurant Cook Salary in Other States
Related Restaurant Cook Salaries in New Jersey
How other high-demand occupations in New Jersey compare to Restaurant Cook ($38,460 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Restaurant Cook | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Waiter and Waitress in NJ | $44,960 | +16.9% | $21.62/hr |
| Fast Food and Counter Worker in NJ | $34,150 | -11.2% | $16.42/hr |
| Security Guard in NJ | $38,880 | +1.1% | $18.69/hr |
| Pharmacy Technician in NJ | $39,610 | +3.0% | $19.04/hr |
| Stocker and Order Filler in NJ | $37,250 | -3.1% | $17.91/hr |
| Home Health and Personal Care Aide in NJ | $37,090 | -3.6% | $17.83/hr |
| Retail Salesperson in NJ | $36,520 | -5.0% | $17.56/hr |
| Receptionist in NJ | $41,650 | +8.3% | $20.02/hr |
| Cashier in NJ | $34,590 | -10.1% | $16.63/hr |
| Air Traffic Controller in NJ | $42,480 | +10.5% | $20.42/hr |
| Nursing Assistant (CNA) in NJ | $46,830 | +21.8% | $22.51/hr |
| Medical Assistant in NJ | $47,210 | +22.8% | $22.70/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical salary range for a Restaurant Cook in New Jersey?
- The salary range for a Restaurant Cook in New Jersey typically falls between $32,220 and $50,010 per year. This means that most cooks in the state earn within this bracket, with the median being $38,460.
How does the average pay for a Restaurant Cook in New Jersey compare to the national average?
- Restaurant Cooks in New Jersey earn slightly more than the national average. Their salaries are approximately 2.1% higher than the national median, reflecting the local cost of living and demand in the state.
What is the median annual salary for a Restaurant Cook in New Jersey?
- The median annual salary for a Restaurant Cook in New Jersey is $38,460. This figure represents the midpoint, meaning half of cooks earn more and half earn less.
Is it possible for a Restaurant Cook in New Jersey to earn over $50,000 per year?
- Yes, it is possible for experienced or highly skilled Restaurant Cooks in New Jersey to earn over $50,000 per year. The upper end of the salary range reaches $50,010, suggesting that top earners achieve this level.