Restaurant Cook Salary in Ohio
Based on 47K+ workers in Ohio
Median Annual Salary (OH)
$35,540
$17.09/hr
vs National Average
$37,684
-5.7% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$28K – $45K
47K employed in Ohio
The median Restaurant Cook salary in Ohio is $35,540 per year, which translates to about $17 per hour. This figure is 5.7% lower than the national average for this role. With 46,910 individuals employed in this capacity across the state, Ohio presents a significant market for culinary professionals.
Several factors influence how much a Restaurant Cook in Ohio earns. These can include the specific type of restaurant, the cook's experience level, their skills, and the geographic location within Ohio. For instance, cooks in larger metropolitan areas might see higher pay compared to those in smaller towns.
Salary Distribution — Restaurant Cook in Ohio
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $27,590 |
| 25th percentile | $29,520 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $35,540 |
| 75th percentile | $37,920 |
| 90th percentile | $44,940 |
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 Ohio 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 Ohio vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Ohio) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $35,540 |
| 2026 (projected) | $36,606 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Ohio Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $35,540 | $37,684 |
| 2026 (projected) | $36,606 | $38,815 |
Restaurant Cook Salary by Experience Level in Ohio
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $29,520 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $35,540 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $37,920 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $44,940 |
Restaurant Cook Salary in Other States
Related Restaurant Cook Salaries in Ohio
How other high-demand occupations in Ohio compare to Restaurant Cook ($35,540 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Restaurant Cook | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Waiter and Waitress in OH | $36,700 | +3.3% | $17.64/hr |
| Fast Food and Counter Worker in OH | $28,430 | -20.0% | $13.67/hr |
| Security Guard in OH | $35,770 | +0.6% | $17.20/hr |
| Receptionist in OH | $35,920 | +1.1% | $17.27/hr |
| Home Health and Personal Care Aide in OH | $34,460 | -3.0% | $16.57/hr |
| Stocker and Order Filler in OH | $37,130 | +4.5% | $17.85/hr |
| Tutor in OH | $37,360 | +5.1% | $17.96/hr |
| Nursing Assistant (CNA) in OH | $39,010 | +9.8% | $18.75/hr |
| Retail Salesperson in OH | $30,800 | -13.3% | $14.81/hr |
| Pharmacy Technician in OH | $40,650 | +14.4% | $19.54/hr |
| Cashier in OH | $29,260 | -17.7% | $14.07/hr |
| Rehabilitation Counselor in OH | $42,620 | +19.9% | $20.49/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical salary range for a Restaurant Cook in Ohio?
- In Ohio, the salary range for a Restaurant Cook typically falls between $27,590 and $44,940 annually. This means that while the median is $35,540, many cooks are compensated either below or above this central point based on various factors.
How does the average Restaurant Cook salary in Ohio compare to the national average?
- The average Restaurant Cook salary in Ohio is 5.7% lower than the national average. This suggests that cooks in Ohio may earn slightly less than their counterparts in other parts of the United States on average.
What hourly wage can a Restaurant Cook in Ohio expect?
- The median hourly wage for a Restaurant Cook in Ohio is approximately $17. This figure is derived from the annual median salary of $35,540, providing a more frequent pay perspective for those seeking employment or evaluating their current compensation.
How many Restaurant Cooks are employed in Ohio?
- There are approximately 46,910 individuals employed as Restaurant Cooks throughout Ohio. This substantial number indicates a robust job market for culinary professionals within the state's diverse dining establishments.