Cooks, Restaurant Salary in Reno, NV

In Reno, NV, the typical cook employed in restaurants earns a median annual salary of $37,410, which translates to approximately $17.99 per hour. This figure is slightly higher than the national median for cooks, which stands at $36,830 annually. When compared to the local median household income of $84,684, it becomes evident that a cook's earnings represent about 44% of the area's average household income. This suggests that while cooks in Reno earn more than their counterparts nationally, they still contribute modestly to an average household budget within this region.

Entry-level cooks in Reno can expect to earn around $27,690 annually, which is near the 10th percentile mark for the occupation in this area. As experience and skill levels increase, earnings see a substantial rise; those at the 25th percentile make approximately $33,380 per year, while experienced cooks earning towards the 75th percentile can make about $44,260 annually. The highest earners, or those in the 90th percentile, can expect salaries around $46,160. This significant disparity between entry-level and experienced positions is driven by several factors, including skill proficiency, tenure, specialization within the culinary field, and potential for overtime work. As cooks progress through their careers, opportunities for advancement to higher-paying roles such as head chef or kitchen manager also contribute to increased earnings potential.