Cooks, Restaurant Salary in Madison, WI

In Madison, WI, cooks working in restaurants typically earn a median annual salary of $38,400, which is slightly higher than the national median of $36,830 for this occupation. This translates to an hourly rate of approximately $18.46. When comparing these earnings to local household incomes, it becomes evident that a single cook's income constitutes about 44% of the area's median household income of $86,827. The relatively lower earning potential underscores the financial challenges faced by individuals in this role, particularly when considering the cost of living and housing expenses prevalent in Madison.

The salary range for cooks varies significantly based on experience levels. Entry-level cooks tend to earn near the 10th percentile mark at approximately $28,450 annually, while those with more experience can reach earnings up to the 90th percentile, which is around $47,880 per year. This substantial difference in wages between entry-level and experienced workers is primarily driven by factors such as skill proficiency, familiarity with diverse culinary techniques, ability to manage kitchen operations efficiently, and the capacity to handle high-pressure environments effectively. Experienced cooks often possess specialized skills or certifications that further enhance their earning potential within the industry.