Restaurant Cook Salary in Washington
Based on 35K+ workers in Washington
Median Annual Salary (WA)
$46,800
$22.50/hr
vs National Average
$37,684
+24.2% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$38K – $58K
35K employed in Washington
The median Restaurant Cook salary in Washington is $46,800 annually, or $23 per hour. This is 24.2% higher than the national average. Approximately 35,140 individuals are employed in this role across the state, indicating a robust job market for culinary professionals.
Several factors can influence a Restaurant Cook salary in Washington. Experience level plays a significant role, with more seasoned cooks commanding higher pay. The specific type of restaurant, its size, and its location within Washington can also impact earning potential, as can the demand for skilled cooks in a particular area.
Salary Distribution — Restaurant Cook in Washington
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $37,940 |
| 25th percentile | $42,770 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $46,800 |
| 75th percentile | $49,540 |
| 90th percentile | $57,910 |
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 Washington 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 Washington vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Washington) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $46,800 |
| 2026 (projected) | $48,204 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Washington Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $46,800 | $37,684 |
| 2026 (projected) | $48,204 | $38,815 |
Restaurant Cook Salary by Experience Level in Washington
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $42,770 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $46,800 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $49,540 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $57,910 |
Restaurant Cook Salary in Other States
Related Restaurant Cook Salaries in Washington
How other high-demand occupations in Washington compare to Restaurant Cook ($46,800 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Restaurant Cook | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Waiter and Waitress in WA | $56,130 | +19.9% | $26.99/hr |
| Fast Food and Counter Worker in WA | $37,710 | -19.4% | $18.13/hr |
| Security Guard in WA | $47,100 | +0.6% | $22.64/hr |
| Home Health and Personal Care Aide in WA | $47,730 | +2.0% | $22.95/hr |
| Tutor in WA | $48,020 | +2.6% | $23.09/hr |
| Receptionist in WA | $44,710 | -4.5% | $21.50/hr |
| Stocker and Order Filler in WA | $44,620 | -4.7% | $21.45/hr |
| Nursing Assistant (CNA) in WA | $49,180 | +5.1% | $23.64/hr |
| Customer Service Representative in WA | $50,330 | +7.5% | $24.20/hr |
| Retail Salesperson in WA | $39,560 | -15.5% | $19.02/hr |
| Cashier in WA | $38,720 | -17.3% | $18.62/hr |
| Automotive Service Technician in WA | $57,270 | +22.4% | $27.53/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical salary range for a Restaurant Cook in Washington?
- The salary range for a Restaurant Cook in Washington typically falls between $37,940 and $57,910 per year. This means that while the median is $46,800, there's a considerable spread based on various factors.
How does the Restaurant Cook salary in Washington compare to the national average?
- Restaurant Cooks in Washington earn significantly more than their national counterparts, with salaries being 24.2% higher than the national average. This suggests a strong demand or higher cost of living contributing to increased wages.
How many people work as Restaurant Cooks in Washington?
- There are an estimated 35,140 individuals employed as Restaurant Cooks throughout Washington. This indicates a substantial industry with many opportunities for those in this profession.
Is $23 an hour a good wage for a Restaurant Cook in Washington?
- An hourly wage of $23 for a Restaurant Cook in Washington is equivalent to the median annual salary of $46,800. This figure is 24.2% above the national average, suggesting it's a competitive and well-compensated rate within the state.