Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria Salary in San Francisco, CA

In San Francisco, cooks working in institutions and cafeterias have a median annual salary of $47,920, which translates to approximately $23.04 per hour. This figure is notably higher than the national median for this occupation, set at $36,450, underscoring the premium paid in the local job market. When compared to the area's median household income of $133,780, it becomes evident that a single cook's earnings contribute significantly but do not match the broader household earning potential within the city. The employment data from BLS OEWS May 2025 indicates there are an estimated 4,040 cooks in this sector in San Francisco, operating within a local unemployment rate of 4.20%.

Entry-level cooks in San Francisco earn around $39,520 annually, which is at the 10th percentile, while those in more experienced positions can see earnings as high as $62,800 at the 90th percentile. The difference between these figures highlights the impact of experience and possibly specialization within the field on salary potential. This disparity is driven by factors such as tenure, skill level, responsibilities, and potentially educational background or certifications that allow for higher pay scales. Those positioned around the median (25th percentile) earn about $45,230 annually, suggesting a gradual progression in earnings as cooks gain experience and possibly take on more complex or responsible roles within their institutions.