Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria Salary in Los Angeles, CA

In Los Angeles, CA, cooks working in institutions and cafeterias earn a median annual salary of $44,860, which is higher than the national median for this occupation at $36,450. This translates to a median hourly wage of $21.57. When compared to the local area median household income, which stands at $93,525, it becomes evident that cooks' earnings constitute approximately 48% of the typical household's income. Despite earning above the national median for their role, these workers still earn significantly less than the average household in Los Angeles, highlighting a disparity between individual and household incomes within the region.

Salaries for cooks at entry-level positions tend to be on the lower end of the spectrum, with wages starting around $36,200 annually (10th percentile) and increasing as experience is gained. Those just beginning their careers might earn near this 10th percentile mark. In contrast, experienced workers can command salaries up to $60,120 annually (90th percentile), reflecting a significant potential for salary growth within the occupation. This disparity is driven by factors such as skill level, tenure, work environment, and geographic location. More seasoned cooks often hold positions that require greater responsibility or specialization, commanding higher wages accordingly. Additionally, larger institutions may offer better compensation compared to smaller settings, further influencing earnings based on experience and workplace context.