Restaurant Cook Salary in South Dakota
Based on 2K+ workers in South Dakota
Median Annual Salary (SD)
$36,220
$17.41/hr
vs National Average
$37,684
-3.9% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$30K – $45K
2K employed in South Dakota
The median Restaurant Cook salary in South Dakota is $36,220 per year, which equates to approximately $17 per hour. This figure is 3.9% lower than the national average for this profession. With 1,890 individuals employed in this role across the state, the market offers numerous opportunities for skilled cooks.
Several factors can influence the Restaurant Cook salary in South Dakota. These include the specific location within the state, the type and size of the restaurant, and the cook's level of experience and specialized skills. For instance, cooks in larger cities or fine-dining establishments may command higher wages than those in smaller towns or casual eateries.
Salary Distribution — Restaurant Cook in South Dakota
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $30,140 |
| 25th percentile | $33,040 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $36,220 |
| 75th percentile | $38,910 |
| 90th percentile | $44,990 |
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 South Dakota 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 South Dakota vs National
| Year | Median Salary (South Dakota) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $36,220 |
| 2026 (projected) | $37,307 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | South Dakota Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $36,220 | $37,684 |
| 2026 (projected) | $37,307 | $38,815 |
Restaurant Cook Salary by Experience Level in South Dakota
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $33,040 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $36,220 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $38,910 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $44,990 |
Restaurant Cook Salary in Other States
Related Restaurant Cook Salaries in South Dakota
How other high-demand occupations in South Dakota compare to Restaurant Cook ($36,220 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Restaurant Cook | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fast Food and Counter Worker in SD | $29,490 | -18.6% | $14.18/hr |
| Waiter and Waitress in SD | $28,990 | -20.0% | $13.94/hr |
| Security Guard in SD | $37,150 | +2.6% | $17.86/hr |
| Stocker and Order Filler in SD | $37,650 | +3.9% | $18.10/hr |
| Home Health and Personal Care Aide in SD | $37,740 | +4.2% | $18.14/hr |
| Air Traffic Controller in SD | $37,860 | +4.5% | $18.20/hr |
| Retail Salesperson in SD | $34,370 | -5.1% | $16.52/hr |
| Receptionist in SD | $38,280 | +5.7% | $18.40/hr |
| Nursing Assistant (CNA) in SD | $38,800 | +7.1% | $18.65/hr |
| Customer Service Representative in SD | $40,650 | +12.2% | $19.54/hr |
| Administrative Assistant in SD | $41,700 | +15.1% | $20.05/hr |
| Medical Assistant in SD | $41,870 | +15.6% | $20.13/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical salary range for a Restaurant Cook in South Dakota?
- In South Dakota, Restaurant Cooks typically earn between $30,140 and $44,990 annually. This range reflects variations in experience, location, and employer.
How does the average pay for a Restaurant Cook in South Dakota compare to the national average?
- The average Restaurant Cook salary in South Dakota is 3.9% lower than the national average. This means cooks in South Dakota may earn slightly less on average compared to their counterparts across the United States.
What is the hourly wage for a Restaurant Cook in South Dakota?
- The median hourly wage for a Restaurant Cook in South Dakota is $17. This is based on the annual median salary of $36,220 and a standard full-time work schedule.
How many Restaurant Cooks are employed in South Dakota?
- There are approximately 1,890 Restaurant Cooks employed throughout South Dakota. This number indicates a stable demand for culinary professionals within the state's food service industry.