Cooks
🤍 Save CareerCooks play a vital role in the US economy, with 2.8 million professionals employed nationwide. The median annual salary is $35,760, with projected growth of 5% through 2034 (Faster than average).
💰 Salary Range
📈 Growth Outlook
moderate — 5% projected growth🤖 AI Automation Risk
AI may assist but is unlikely to replace this role.
🤖AI Impact Deep Dive: Cooks
🔬 AI Impact Deep Dive: Cooks
AI Collaboration Score
Measures how much AI tools are used as collaborative assistants in this role (0% = no AI involvement, 100% = AI-intensive workflow)
🔮 Future Outlook
The core of the job involves physical dexterity, sensory judgment (taste and smell), and real-time adaptation in a high-heat, unpredictable kitchen environment. While AI-driven automation is already impacting fast food and routine institutional cooking, high-end restaurant and private household cooking remain protected by the need for complex manual skills and human creativity.
Analysis based on Microsoft "Working with AI" research (2025), O*NET task data v30.2, and Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational projections. Updated March 2026.
🌅A Day in the Life
🌟Career Outlook & Getting Started
Why It's Promising
With 5% projected growth and a median salary of $35,760, this career offers steady prospects. The large employment base (2.8M jobs) means abundant opportunities across the country.
How to Get Started
Entry typically requires see how to become one. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field.
Who Is It For
Anyone interested in cooks who wants to build a rewarding career in this field.
🎓Majors & Top Schools
❓Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Cooks make in 2026?▼
The median salary for a Cooks is $35,760 per year. Entry-level positions start around $21,456, while experienced professionals can earn up to $57,216 depending on location, specialization, and industry.
How do I become a Cooks?▼
Entry typically requires see how to become one. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field. The typical education requirement is no degree required.
What degree do you need to be a Cooks?▼
Most Cooks positions require no degree required. However, some professionals enter the field through alternative paths like bootcamps, certifications, or self-directed learning.
What AP courses should I take to become a Cooks?▼
Check PathLeap for personalized AP course recommendations for Cooks. The right AP courses depend on your target college major and career specialization.
What does a Cooks do on a daily basis?▼
As a cook, your day involves a mix of specialized tasks that require both expertise and adaptability. You work with colleagues, clients, or patients depending on the setting, applying your training to solve real-world problems.
Is Cooks a good career in 2026?▼
With 5% projected growth and a median salary of $35,760, this career offers steady prospects. The large employment base (2.8M jobs) means abundant opportunities across the country. Job growth is projected at 5%, which is declining. The median salary of $35,760 also positions it competitively in the job market.
Will AI replace Cookss?▼
Cooks has an AI automation risk score of 30/100 (Low). AI will change how this work is done, but the core skills remain valuable. Professionals who learn to work with AI tools will have a significant advantage.
What kind of person makes a good Cooks?▼
Anyone interested in cooks who wants to build a rewarding career in this field. Success in this role also depends on continuous learning and adaptability, especially as the field evolves with new technology and industry trends.
Is Cooks Right for You?
Take our career quiz to see how Cooks matches your personality. Get personalized AP course recommendations and see what similar students are exploring.
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