Restaurant Cook Salary in Utah
Based on 11K+ workers in Utah
Median Annual Salary (UT)
$36,490
$17.54/hr
vs National Average
$37,684
-3.2% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$29K – $47K
11K employed in Utah
The median Restaurant Cook salary in Utah is $36,490 annually, which translates to approximately $18 per hour. This figure is 3.2% lower than the national average for this profession. With 10,520 individuals currently employed as cooks in Utah's diverse culinary scene, understanding compensation is key for those in or entering the field.
Several factors can influence a Restaurant Cook salary in Utah. Experience level plays a significant role, with more seasoned professionals commanding higher pay. The specific type of restaurant, whether fine dining or fast-casual, and its location within Utah, can also impact earning potential. Furthermore, the responsibilities and culinary specialization of the cook contribute to their overall compensation.
Salary Distribution — Restaurant Cook in Utah
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $28,800 |
| 25th percentile | $31,200 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $36,490 |
| 75th percentile | $41,950 |
| 90th percentile | $46,580 |
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 Utah 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 Utah vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Utah) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $36,490 |
| 2026 (projected) | $37,585 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Utah Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $36,490 | $37,684 |
| 2026 (projected) | $37,585 | $38,815 |
Restaurant Cook Salary by Experience Level in Utah
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $31,200 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $36,490 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $41,950 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $46,580 |
Restaurant Cook Salary in Other States
Related Restaurant Cook Salaries in Utah
How other high-demand occupations in Utah compare to Restaurant Cook ($36,490 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Restaurant Cook | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Waiter and Waitress in UT | $31,150 | -14.6% | $14.98/hr |
| Fast Food and Counter Worker in UT | $28,670 | -21.4% | $13.78/hr |
| Receptionist in UT | $36,960 | +1.3% | $17.77/hr |
| Home Health and Personal Care Aide in UT | $35,880 | -1.7% | $17.25/hr |
| Stocker and Order Filler in UT | $37,690 | +3.3% | $18.12/hr |
| Dental Assistant in UT | $37,760 | +3.5% | $18.15/hr |
| Retail Salesperson in UT | $33,900 | -7.1% | $16.30/hr |
| Nursing Assistant (CNA) in UT | $39,840 | +9.2% | $19.15/hr |
| Cashier in UT | $31,600 | -13.4% | $15.19/hr |
| Security Guard in UT | $42,700 | +17.0% | $20.53/hr |
| Customer Service Representative in UT | $43,140 | +18.2% | $20.74/hr |
| Tutor in UT | $43,580 | +19.4% | $20.95/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical salary range for a Restaurant Cook in Utah?
- The salary range for a Restaurant Cook in Utah generally falls between $28,800 and $46,580 per year. This means most cooks in the state earn within this broad spectrum based on various factors.
How does the average Restaurant Cook salary in Utah compare to the national average?
- The average Restaurant Cook salary in Utah is approximately 3.2% lower than the national average. This indicates that, on average, cooks in Utah earn slightly less than their counterparts across the United States.
What is the median hourly wage for a Restaurant Cook in Utah?
- The median hourly wage for a Restaurant Cook in Utah is $18 per hour. This aligns with the annual median salary of $36,490 and provides a good benchmark for hourly earnings.
How many Restaurant Cooks are employed in Utah?
- There are approximately 10,520 individuals employed as Restaurant Cooks throughout Utah. This indicates a substantial number of opportunities within the state's food service industry.