Restaurant Cook Salary in New Mexico
Based on 8K+ workers in New Mexico
Median Annual Salary (NM)
$35,020
$16.84/hr
vs National Average
$37,684
-7.1% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$28K – $43K
8K employed in New Mexico
The median Restaurant Cook salary in New Mexico is $35,020 per year, which translates to approximately $17 per hour. This figure is 7.1% lower than the national average for this role. Currently, there are an estimated 7,810 individuals employed as restaurant cooks across the state.
Several factors can influence the specific Restaurant Cook salary in New Mexico. Experience level is a significant driver, with more seasoned cooks often commanding higher pay. Location within the state, such as major metropolitan areas versus rural regions, can also impact earnings. The type and size of the restaurant establishment also play a role in compensation.
Salary Distribution — Restaurant Cook in New Mexico
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $28,100 |
| 25th percentile | $30,220 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $35,020 |
| 75th percentile | $37,320 |
| 90th percentile | $43,400 |
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 Mexico 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 Mexico vs National
| Year | Median Salary (New Mexico) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $35,020 |
| 2026 (projected) | $36,071 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | New Mexico Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $35,020 | $37,684 |
| 2026 (projected) | $36,071 | $38,815 |
Restaurant Cook Salary by Experience Level in New Mexico
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $30,220 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $35,020 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $37,320 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $43,400 |
Restaurant Cook Salary in Other States
Related Restaurant Cook Salaries in New Mexico
How other high-demand occupations in New Mexico compare to Restaurant Cook ($35,020 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Restaurant Cook | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Waiter and Waitress in NM | $36,920 | +5.4% | $17.75/hr |
| Fast Food and Counter Worker in NM | $28,700 | -18.0% | $13.80/hr |
| Receptionist in NM | $35,140 | +0.3% | $16.89/hr |
| Stocker and Order Filler in NM | $35,830 | +2.3% | $17.23/hr |
| Retail Salesperson in NM | $33,300 | -4.9% | $16.01/hr |
| Construction Laborer in NM | $38,400 | +9.7% | $18.46/hr |
| Customer Service Representative in NM | $39,030 | +11.5% | $18.76/hr |
| Medical Assistant in NM | $39,230 | +12.0% | $18.86/hr |
| Nursing Assistant (CNA) in NM | $39,390 | +12.5% | $18.94/hr |
| Cashier in NM | $30,120 | -14.0% | $14.48/hr |
| Home Health and Personal Care Aide in NM | $28,520 | -18.6% | $13.71/hr |
| Firefighter in NM | $41,590 | +18.8% | $20.00/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical salary range for a Restaurant Cook in New Mexico?
- The salary range for a Restaurant Cook in New Mexico generally falls between $28,100 and $43,400 annually. This means that while the median is $35,020, some cooks may earn less, and others with more experience or in specialized roles can earn more.
How does the Restaurant Cook salary in New Mexico compare to the national average?
- The median Restaurant Cook salary in New Mexico, at $35,020 per year, is 7.1% lower than the national average. This suggests that cooks in New Mexico typically earn less compared to their counterparts across the United States.
What's the hourly rate for a Restaurant Cook in New Mexico?
- The median hourly rate for a Restaurant Cook in New Mexico is approximately $17. This is derived from the annual median salary of $35,020. Bear in mind that this is a median, and actual hourly wages can vary within the $28,100 to $43,400 annual range.
How many Restaurant Cooks are employed in New Mexico?
- There are approximately 7,810 individuals employed as Restaurant Cooks in New Mexico. This number reflects the current demand and the size of the culinary industry within the state.