Cooks, Restaurant Salary in Knoxville, TN

In Knoxville, TN, the typical cook in a restaurant earns a median annual salary of $35,630 and makes approximately $17.13 per hour. This figure is slightly below the national median for this occupation, which stands at $36,830. When compared to the local area's median household income of $69,734, it becomes evident that cooks earn roughly half of what the average Knoxville household earns annually. With an estimated 3,880 individuals employed as restaurant cooks in the region and a relatively low unemployment rate of 3.20%, these workers contribute significantly to the local food service industry despite their earnings being modest relative to broader economic benchmarks.

Entry-level cooks in Knoxville typically earn around $22,510 per year, placing them at the 10th percentile, while those closer to the median experience earn about $28,920 annually (25th percentile). In contrast, more experienced or higher-performing cooks can reach salaries near the 75th percentile, earning approximately $37,820 yearly, with the top earners at the 90th percentile making around $43,560. The variance in earnings is driven by factors such as experience, specialization, and skill level. For instance, those who gain expertise in certain cuisines or techniques may command higher wages due to their increased value in a competitive restaurant market. Additionally, opportunities for advancement within larger establishments or acquiring additional certifications can also contribute to salary increases over time.