How much does a Cooks, Restaurant make in California?
Last updated: 2024 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Prepare, season, and cook dishes such as soups, meats, vegetables, or desserts in restaurants. May order supplies, keep records and accounts, price items on menu, or plan menu.
Source: O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor
Salaries for Cooks, Restaurant in California range from $36,430 at the 10th percentile (entry level) to $54,690 at the 90th percentile (experienced). The middle 50% earn between $38,160 and $46,960.
| Percentile | Annual Salary | Hourly Rate | Monthly |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $36,430 | $17.51 | $3,035 |
| 25th Percentile | $38,160 | $18.35 | $3,180 |
| Median (50th) | $44,290 | $21.29 | $3,690 |
| 75th Percentile | $46,960 | $22.58 | $3,913 |
| 90th Percentile (Experienced) | $54,690 | $26.29 | $4,557 |
Note: The mean (average) salary of $44,240 differs from the median because salary distributions are typically skewed by high earners.
Some links may be affiliate links. See our Affiliate Disclosure.
What does this salary really buy? See Cooks, Restaurant salary in California adjusted for cost of living →
Compare Cooks, Restaurant pay across states — sorted by highest median salary.
Salary data is sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey, 2024 estimates. The OEWS survey covers approximately 1.1 million establishments nationwide.
Annual salaries are calculated based on a standard 2,080-hour work year. Actual compensation may vary based on experience, education, employer, and local market conditions. Figures do not include benefits, bonuses, or overtime pay.
Our Methodology · Data Sources · Source: BLS OEWS