Restaurant Cook Salary in Wisconsin
Based on 25K+ workers in Wisconsin
Median Annual Salary (WI)
$36,550
$17.57/hr
vs National Average
$37,684
-3.0% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$28K – $46K
25K employed in Wisconsin
The median annual salary for a Restaurant Cook in Wisconsin is $36,550, which translates to approximately $18 per hour. This figure is 3.0% lower than the national average, indicating a slightly lower earning potential for this role within the state. The typical salary range for this position in Wisconsin falls between $28,010 and $46,270 annually.
Several factors can influence the Restaurant Cook salary in Wisconsin. Experience level is a significant determinant, with more seasoned cooks commanding higher pay. The type and size of the restaurant, its location within the state (urban vs. rural), and whether it offers benefits like health insurance or paid time off can also affect overall compensation beyond the base wage. Demand for skilled cooks in specific regions may also play a role.
Salary Distribution — Restaurant Cook in Wisconsin
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $28,010 |
| 25th percentile | $31,240 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $36,550 |
| 75th percentile | $40,280 |
| 90th percentile | $46,270 |
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 Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Wisconsin) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $36,550 |
| 2026 (projected) | $37,647 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Wisconsin Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $36,550 | $37,684 |
| 2026 (projected) | $37,647 | $38,815 |
Restaurant Cook Salary by Experience Level in Wisconsin
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $31,240 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $36,550 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $40,280 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $46,270 |
Restaurant Cook Salary in Other States
Related Restaurant Cook Salaries in Wisconsin
How other high-demand occupations in Wisconsin compare to Restaurant Cook ($36,550 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Restaurant Cook | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Waiter and Waitress in WI | $29,670 | -18.8% | $14.26/hr |
| Fast Food and Counter Worker in WI | $28,600 | -21.8% | $13.75/hr |
| Home Health and Personal Care Aide in WI | $36,340 | -0.6% | $17.47/hr |
| Security Guard in WI | $37,440 | +2.4% | $18.00/hr |
| Tutor in WI | $37,820 | +3.5% | $18.18/hr |
| Stocker and Order Filler in WI | $35,000 | -4.2% | $16.83/hr |
| Retail Salesperson in WI | $34,480 | -5.7% | $16.58/hr |
| Air Traffic Controller in WI | $39,400 | +7.8% | $18.94/hr |
| Receptionist in WI | $41,150 | +12.6% | $19.78/hr |
| Cashier in WI | $30,880 | -15.5% | $14.85/hr |
| Nursing Assistant (CNA) in WI | $45,130 | +23.5% | $21.70/hr |
| Pharmacy Technician in WI | $45,970 | +25.8% | $22.10/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average hourly pay for a Restaurant Cook in Wisconsin?
- The average hourly pay for a Restaurant Cook in Wisconsin is around $18 per hour. This is derived from the median annual salary of $36,550.
What is the salary range for Restaurant Cooks in Wisconsin?
- In Wisconsin, Restaurant Cooks can expect to earn within a salary range of $28,010 to $46,270 per year. The median salary sits comfortably within this range at $36,550 annually.
How does the Restaurant Cook salary in Wisconsin compare to the national average?
- The Restaurant Cook salary in Wisconsin is 3.0% lower than the national average. This means cooks in Wisconsin typically earn slightly less than their counterparts across the United States.
How many Restaurant Cooks are employed in Wisconsin?
- There are approximately 25,410 individuals employed as Restaurant Cooks in Wisconsin. This indicates a significant number of opportunities within this culinary profession in the state.