Cooks, Restaurant Salary in Northwest Colorado

In Northwest Colorado, cooks in the restaurant industry earn a median annual salary of $38,290, which is slightly above the national median of $36,830. The typical hourly wage for these workers stands at $18.41. When compared to local household income figures, this earnings level provides insight into how individual employment contributes to family financial stability within the region. Given that a significant portion of households may rely on multiple incomes or additional sources of revenue beyond primary wages, understanding where restaurant cooks fall in comparison to broader local income statistics is crucial for assessing economic well-being and job market competitiveness.

Entry-level cooks in Northwest Colorado tend to earn closer to the 10th percentile at $31,640 annually, reflecting their initial experience levels and basic skill sets required by employers. In contrast, more experienced workers can command salaries near or exceeding the 75th percentile mark of $45,250 per year, with top earners reaching up to $48,950 annually as indicated by the 90th percentile data point. The disparity in earnings between entry-level and seasoned cooks is largely driven by factors such as accumulated experience, specialized culinary skills, and potentially additional responsibilities or leadership roles within restaurant operations. These differences highlight the potential for career growth and increased earning capacity over time within this occupation.