Restaurant Cook Salary in Virginia (2026)
Virginia · 10.0% above national average · High Demand
| City | Avg Salary | vs National | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia Beach | $44,213 | +5.0% | High |
| Richmond | $42,950 | +2.0% | High |
Virginia is home to a very strong job market for Restaurant Cooks. The state's key industries — Government, Technology, Defense — generate significant demand for skilled professionals. At $42,108 per year, Virginia's Restaurant Cook salaries are 10.0% higher than the national average.
The cost of living in Virginia (index: 1.1) justifies the higher pay scale. Entry-level professionals in Virginia can expect to earn $28,523–$35,783, while experienced Restaurant Cooks can command $52,118–$57,967.
Looking ahead, the Restaurant Cook profession in Virginia is projected to grow at 3.0% annually. Major employers are actively hiring, and the state's investment in Government continues to drive new opportunities for qualified candidates.
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What is the average Restaurant Cook salary in Virginia?The average Restaurant Cook salary in Virginia is $42,108 per year in 2026, which is 10.0% above the national average of $38,280.
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What city in Virginia pays Restaurant Cooks the most?Major metro areas typically pay Restaurant Cooks the highest wages in Virginia due to higher costs of living and competitive job markets.
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Is Virginia a good state for Restaurant Cooks?Virginia has a very strong job market with major industries in Government, Technology, Defense. This makes it one of the better states for Restaurant Cook employment.
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How does Virginia Restaurant Cook salary compare to the US average?At $42,108/year, Virginia Restaurant Cook salaries are 10.0% higher than the national average of $38,280/year.