Restaurant Cook Salary in Oklahoma
Based on 17K+ workers in Oklahoma
Median Annual Salary (OK)
$31,720
$15.25/hr
vs National Average
$37,684
-15.8% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$23K – $44K
17K employed in Oklahoma
The median Restaurant Cook salary in Oklahoma is approximately $31,720 annually, which translates to about $15 per hour. This figure is notably lower than the national average, coming in at 15.8% less. With over 17,000 individuals employed in this role across the state, it's a significant part of Oklahoma's culinary workforce.
Several factors can influence a Restaurant Cook salary in Oklahoma. Experience level, the specific type and size of the restaurant, and its geographic location within the state all play a role. Larger establishments or those in more affluent areas might offer higher compensation, while entry-level positions typically fall at the lower end of the salary range.
Salary Distribution — Restaurant Cook in Oklahoma
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $22,850 |
| 25th percentile | $28,670 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $31,720 |
| 75th percentile | $37,470 |
| 90th percentile | $44,170 |
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 Oklahoma 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 Oklahoma vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Oklahoma) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $31,720 |
| 2026 (projected) | $32,672 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Oklahoma Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $31,720 | $37,684 |
| 2026 (projected) | $32,672 | $38,815 |
Restaurant Cook Salary by Experience Level in Oklahoma
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $28,670 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $31,720 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $37,470 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $44,170 |
Restaurant Cook Salary in Other States
Related Restaurant Cook Salaries in Oklahoma
How other high-demand occupations in Oklahoma compare to Restaurant Cook ($31,720 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Restaurant Cook | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fast Food and Counter Worker in OK | $23,430 | -26.1% | $11.26/hr |
| Waiter and Waitress in OK | $17,910 | -43.5% | $8.61/hr |
| Retail Salesperson in OK | $29,660 | -6.5% | $14.26/hr |
| Receptionist in OK | $34,560 | +9.0% | $16.62/hr |
| Stocker and Order Filler in OK | $34,790 | +9.7% | $16.73/hr |
| Cashier in OK | $28,180 | -11.2% | $13.55/hr |
| Home Health and Personal Care Aide in OK | $27,710 | -12.6% | $13.32/hr |
| Nursing Assistant (CNA) in OK | $35,930 | +13.3% | $17.27/hr |
| Security Guard in OK | $36,270 | +14.3% | $17.44/hr |
| Data Analyst in OK | $36,820 | +16.1% | $17.70/hr |
| Tutor in OK | $38,010 | +19.8% | $18.27/hr |
| Rehabilitation Counselor in OK | $38,260 | +20.6% | $18.39/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical salary range for a Restaurant Cook in Oklahoma?
- In Oklahoma, the salary range for a Restaurant Cook typically falls between $22,850 and $44,170 per year. The median salary is $31,720 annually.
How does the average Restaurant Cook salary in Oklahoma compare to the national average?
- The average Restaurant Cook salary in Oklahoma is 15.8% lower than the national average. This means Oklahoma cooks generally earn less than their counterparts across the country.
Is the hourly wage for an Oklahoma Restaurant Cook significantly different from the yearly median?
- The median annual salary of $31,720 for an Oklahoma Restaurant Cook equates to an hourly wage of approximately $15. This provides a good benchmark for understanding hourly compensation.
How many Restaurant Cooks are employed in Oklahoma?
- There are approximately 17,050 Restaurant Cooks currently employed in Oklahoma. This indicates a substantial demand for culinary professionals within the state.