Cook Salary in Austin, TX
Cooks in Austin, TX, in 2026, earn approximately $16.87 per hour, which translates to about $674.80 per week, $2,924.13 per month, and $35,089.60 per year.
The job market outlook for Cooks in Austin is positive, with a growth rate of around 5% per year. This suggests a growing demand for skilled culinary professionals in the city's expanding food service industry.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Austin, TX?
The salary of a Cook in Austin can vary based on experience, skills, and the type of establishment. Below is a breakdown of typical pay rates according to experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.01 | $440.40 | $1,902.00 | $22,848.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.87 | $674.80 | $2,924.13 | $35,089.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $25.86 | $1,034.40 | $4,460.53 | $53,763.20 |
Do Cooks in Austin Earn Tips?
Cooks typically do not earn tips, as their work is primarily done in the kitchen and not directly customer-facing. Their income is usually based solely on their hourly wage or salary.
Cook Salary in Austin vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn around $16.06 per hour, which amounts to about $33,404.80 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Austin earn a bit more, with an average hourly wage of $16.87 and an annual pay of about $35,089.60. This difference reflects the local cost of living and demand for culinary staff in the Austin area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Austin for Cooks
Looking at specific neighborhoods close to Austin, pay rates can vary slightly:
- Downtown: $17.50 per hour
- South Congress: $18.00 per hour
These areas tend to have higher-paying opportunities, likely due to their vibrant dining scenes and upscale establishments.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Austin?
The salary a Cook earns in Austin depends on several key factors:
- Experience and skill level: Experienced Cooks with specialized culinary techniques can command higher wages.
- Type of establishment: Cooks working in fine dining restaurants or upscale hotels often earn more than those in fast-food or casual dining venues.
- Work hours and shifts: Those willing to work evenings, weekends, or holidays might receive shift differentials that increase pay.
- Certifications and education: Formal culinary training or certifications can improve earning potential.
- Local demand and cost of living: Austin’s booming food scene drives competitive pay to attract talent.
How To Become a Cook in Austin
Starting a career as a Cook in Austin involves several practical steps and qualifications:
- Complete culinary training programs: Schools like the Austin Community College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive instruction in culinary techniques and kitchen management.
- Pursue certifications: The Food Handler Certification is required for all food service employees in Texas to maintain safe food handling standards. Additionally, earning the Certified Culinarian (CC) certification from the American Culinary Federation demonstrates fundamental culinary skills.
- Gain work experience: Entry-level positions or apprenticeships in kitchens help develop essential skills.
- Consider additional schooling: Institutions such as the Escoffier School of Culinary Arts provide both online and on-campus programs focusing on classical and modern culinary skills.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Austin
Some of the notable employers in Austin seeking skilled Cooks include:
- Uchi
- Franklin Barbecue
- The Driskill Hotel
Establishments That Cooks in Austin Work At
Cooks in Austin find employment across a variety of food service establishments, such as:
- Casual restaurants: Offering steady work but generally moderate pay.
- Fast casual chains: Often entry-level friendly but with limited wage growth.
- Fine dining restaurants: Typically provide higher salaries and opportunities for skill advancement.
- Hotels and catering companies: May offer better pay alongside benefits.
The type of establishment can significantly influence the salary, with upscale or specialized venues tending to offer higher compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Austin for Cooks
For those interested in careers related to cooking, there are several similar roles worth considering.
These include Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Kitchen Manager—roles that build on cooking expertise but with additional responsibilities and higher earning potential.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Austin
Cook employees in Austin should be mindful of Texans’ employment laws and tax requirements to maintain proper workplace standards and comply with legal obligations.
- Visit the Texas government website for comprehensive information on labor laws, minimum wage, overtime, and employment rights.
- The Texas Workforce Commission offers resources related to workforce development and employment regulations relevant to Cooks and other food service workers.