Restaurant Cook Salary in Tennessee (2026)
Tennessee · 12.0% below national average · High Demand
| City | Avg Salary | vs National | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nashville | $32,002 | -5.0% | High |
| Memphis | $28,296 | -16.0% | High |
Tennessee is home to a strong job market for Restaurant Cooks. The state's key industries — Healthcare, Manufacturing, Tourism — generate significant demand for skilled professionals. At $33,686 per year, Tennessee's Restaurant Cook salaries are 12.0% lower than the national average.
The cost of living in Tennessee (index: 0.88) makes salaries stretch further than in higher-cost states. Entry-level professionals in Tennessee can expect to earn $22,818–$28,626, while experienced Restaurant Cooks can command $41,694–$46,374.
Looking ahead, the Restaurant Cook profession in Tennessee is projected to grow at 3.0% annually. Major employers are actively hiring, and the state's investment in Healthcare continues to drive new opportunities for qualified candidates.
-
What is the average Restaurant Cook salary in Tennessee?The average Restaurant Cook salary in Tennessee is $33,686 per year in 2026, which is 12.0% below the national average of $38,280.
-
What city in Tennessee pays Restaurant Cooks the most?Major metro areas typically pay Restaurant Cooks the highest wages in Tennessee due to higher costs of living and competitive job markets.
-
Is Tennessee a good state for Restaurant Cooks?Tennessee has a strong job market with major industries in Healthcare, Manufacturing, Tourism. This makes it one of the better states for Restaurant Cook employment.
-
How does Tennessee Restaurant Cook salary compare to the US average?At $33,686/year, Tennessee Restaurant Cook salaries are 12.0% lower than the national average of $38,280/year.