Chef Salary in Pearland, TX
Chefs in Pearland, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $17.53 per hour, which translates to about $701.20 per week, $3,038.53 per month, and $36,462.40 per year.
The demand for Chefs in Pearland is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the culinary field in this region.
How Much Does a Chef Make in Pearland, TX?
The salary of a Chef in Pearland can vary based on experience level and other factors. Here is a breakdown of earnings from entry-level to top earners.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.83 | $553.20 | $2,392.80 | $28,761.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.53 | $701.20 | $3,038.53 | $36,462.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.22 | $888.80 | $3,847.47 | $46,217.60 |
Do Chefs in Pearland Earn Tips?
Chefs themselves typically do not earn tips as tips usually go to servers and front-of-house staff. However, some Chefs working in smaller establishments or specialty areas might receive occasional tip pools, but this is generally not a major part of their income.
Chef Salary in Pearland vs. National Average
Nationally, Chefs earn on average around $19.00 per hour and about $39,520 annually.
Compared to the national average, Chefs in Pearland earn slightly less at about $17.53 per hour and $36,462.40 annually. This difference may reflect the local cost of living and market demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Pearland for Chefs
If considering nearby locations, Chef salaries are notably higher in some neighboring cities:
- Webster: $31.57 per hour
- Houston: $26.45 per hour
Chefs commuting to Webster or Houston may find higher pay compared to Pearland, influenced by the larger hospitality and dining industry presence in those cities.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in Pearland?
Several factors influence the salary of a Chef in Pearland, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: Chefs with more years of practice or specialized skills like pastry or haute cuisine often earn significantly higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Chefs working at high-end restaurants, hotels, or catering companies usually command better salaries than those in casual dining or fast food.
- Education and Certifications: Culinary degrees or certifications, such as from the American Culinary Federation, can boost a Chef’s earning potential.
- Management Responsibilities: Chefs overseeing kitchen staff or managing culinary operations tend to make more than those focused only on cooking.
How To Become a Chef in Pearland
To start a career as a Chef in Pearland, consider the following steps:
- Complete culinary training programs: Nearby options include the San Jacinto College Culinary Arts Program, which offers degrees and certificates accredited by the American Culinary Federation, and Houston Community College’s Culinary Arts Certificate and Associate degree programs which cover cooking skills and kitchen management.
- Obtain food safety certifications: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is widely recognized and often a requirement for culinary jobs in Texas.
- Earn advanced chef certifications: Pursuing credentials like the Certified Executive Chef (CEC) offered by the American Culinary Federation can demonstrate high-level culinary and managerial competence.
- Gain hands-on experience: Entry-level kitchen positions and apprenticeships help develop practical skills and open doors to chef roles.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Pearland
Some of the top employers actively hiring Chefs in Pearland include:
- Killen's Steakhouse
- Grazia Italian Kitchen
- Killen's Barbecue
- Central Texas Style Barbecue
- Emma's Mex Grill
Establishments That Chefs in Pearland Work At
Chefs in Pearland typically find work across a range of culinary establishments, such as:
- Fine dining restaurants: These often provide higher salaries due to the complexity and quality standards involved.
- Casual and fast casual eateries: These venues offer more moderate pay but can provide quicker career entry.
- Catering companies and banquet halls: Specialized event food preparation can offer seasonal or contract-based opportunities.
- Hotels and resorts: Hospitality venues frequently employ Chefs with competitive pay and benefits.
The salary range can vary greatly depending on the prestige, size, and clientele of the establishment.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Pearland for Chefs
Those interested in culinary careers similar to Chef may also consider:
These include Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Restaurant Manager, all of which are roles that offer paths to leadership and higher salary potential in the culinary and hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chefs in Pearland
Chefs in Pearland should stay informed about relevant labor laws and tax regulations to protect their rights and comply with legal standards.
- Visit the Texas government website for details on state labor regulations and resources.
- For federal labor laws, the U.S. Department of Labor website provides comprehensive information on wage standards, working conditions, and employee rights.