Restaurant Cook Salary in Rhode Island
Based on 7K+ workers in Rhode Island
Median Annual Salary (RI)
$36,510
$17.55/hr
vs National Average
$37,684
-3.1% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$32K – $49K
7K employed in Rhode Island
The median Restaurant Cook salary in Rhode Island is $36,510 per year, which is equivalent to $18 per hour. This median figure is 3.1% lower than the national average for this profession. Currently, there are approximately 6,950 individuals employed as Restaurant Cooks within the state.
Several factors can influence the specific Restaurant Cook salary in Rhode Island. These include the cook's experience level, the type and size of the restaurant, its location within the state, and the specific culinary skills or specializations they possess. Higher demand in certain areas or for specialized roles can also lead to a higher earning potential.
Salary Distribution — Restaurant Cook in Rhode Island
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $31,840 |
| 25th percentile | $34,610 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $36,510 |
| 75th percentile | $45,650 |
| 90th percentile | $49,450 |
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 Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Rhode Island) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $36,510 |
| 2026 (projected) | $37,605 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Rhode Island Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $36,510 | $37,684 |
| 2026 (projected) | $37,605 | $38,815 |
Restaurant Cook Salary by Experience Level in Rhode Island
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $34,610 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $36,510 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $45,650 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $49,450 |
Restaurant Cook Salary in Other States
Related Restaurant Cook Salaries in Rhode Island
How other high-demand occupations in Rhode Island compare to Restaurant Cook ($36,510 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Restaurant Cook | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Waiter and Waitress in RI | $35,420 | -3.0% | $17.03/hr |
| Fast Food and Counter Worker in RI | $31,490 | -13.7% | $15.14/hr |
| Stocker and Order Filler in RI | $36,470 | -0.1% | $17.53/hr |
| Security Guard in RI | $36,940 | +1.2% | $17.76/hr |
| Cashier in RI | $34,860 | -4.5% | $16.76/hr |
| Retail Salesperson in RI | $34,860 | -4.5% | $16.76/hr |
| Tutor in RI | $41,960 | +14.9% | $20.17/hr |
| Receptionist in RI | $42,620 | +16.7% | $20.49/hr |
| Home Health and Personal Care Aide in RI | $43,680 | +19.6% | $21.00/hr |
| Pharmacy Technician in RI | $44,380 | +21.6% | $21.34/hr |
| Nursing Assistant (CNA) in RI | $46,440 | +27.2% | $22.33/hr |
| Rehabilitation Counselor in RI | $47,020 | +28.8% | $22.61/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical salary range for a Restaurant Cook in Rhode Island?
- The salary range for a Restaurant Cook in Rhode Island generally falls between $31,840 and $49,450 annually. This means most cooks in the state earn within this broad spectrum, with the median pay sitting at $36,510.
How does the average Restaurant Cook salary in Rhode Island compare to the national average?
- The average Restaurant Cook salary in Rhode Island is 3.1% lower than the national average. While the median pay is $36,510 per year in Rhode Island, this reflects a slight difference compared to the nationwide figures.
How many Restaurant Cooks are employed in Rhode Island?
- There are approximately 6,950 individuals employed as Restaurant Cooks in Rhode Island. This number represents the current workforce in this culinary role across the state.
Is it possible for a Restaurant Cook in Rhode Island to earn more than $49,450 per year?
- While the typical salary range is $31,840 to $49,450, it is possible for highly experienced or specialized Restaurant Cooks in Rhode Island to earn above $49,450. This would likely depend on factors like working in upscale establishments or management roles.