Cook Salary in Baytown, TX
Cooks in Baytown, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $14.00 per hour, which translates to about $560.00 per week, $2,426.67 per month, and $29,120.00 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Baytown is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for employment opportunities in this role in the coming years.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Baytown, TX?
The salary of a Cook in Baytown can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general overview of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.35 | $414.00 | $1,793.56 | $21,528.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.00 | $560.00 | $2,426.67 | $29,120.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.70 | $788.00 | $3,395.33 | $40,976.00 |
Do Cooks in Baytown Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips since their work is typically behind the scenes in food preparation rather than direct customer service. Their earnings mostly come from their hourly wage or salary alone.
Cook Salary in Baytown vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which translates to about $30,160 per year.
Comparing this to Baytown, Cooks here earn slightly less at $14.00 per hour and $29,120 annually. This small difference reflects regional wage variations and local cost of living differences.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Baytown for Cooks
Nearby areas show a bit variation in pay for Cooks:
- Highland Farms: $15.50 per hour
- Old Baytown: $17.60 per hour
Cooks commuting to these areas might benefit from higher wage opportunities compared to Baytown proper.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Baytown?
Several key factors influence the salary of a Cook in Baytown:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Cooks or those with specialized cooking skills often earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Employment at upscale restaurants or hotels generally pays more than fast food or casual dining.
- Education and Certifications: Culinary training and certifications like ServSafe can enhance earning potential.
- Shift Timing: Working evenings, weekends, or holidays may result in shift differentials or bonuses.
- Local Economic Factors: Regional cost of living and demand for food service staff also impact pay rates.
How To Become a Cook in Baytown
Starting a career as a Cook in Baytown can be approached through several pathways:
- Enroll in Culinary Education Programs: For example, Lee College Culinary Arts Program in Baytown and San Jacinto College Culinary Arts Program nearby provide solid foundations in cooking skills and kitchen management.
- Obtain Required Food Safety Permits: In Texas, a Food Handler's Permit is required for food service workers to ensure safe practices.
- Earn Industry Certifications: The ServSafe Certification is nationally recognized and valued.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level work in kitchens or apprenticeships help develop skills and open career opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Baytown
Some of the key employers hiring Cooks in Baytown include:
- Houston Methodist
- Mambo Seafood Restaurants
- Texas Roadhouse
Establishments That Cooks in Baytown Work At
Cooks in Baytown typically find work in a variety of settings, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer stable work environments and consistent shifts.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: These can provide higher turnover and potentially lower pay but more entry-level opportunities.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Usually provide better pay and benefits, demanding higher culinary skills.
- Seafood and Specialty Restaurants: Such as Mambo Seafood, where skilled cooks can command higher wages.
The type of establishment can significantly influence a Cook’s salary and career growth.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Baytown for Cooks
If you are exploring careers related to Cook in the hospitality industry, here are some options to consider:
These include Line Cook, Commis Chef, and Chef de Partie roles, which share culinary duties and skillsets similar to a Cook.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Baytown
Cooks should be aware of labor laws and tax obligations relevant to their employment in Texas.
- For state-specific regulations, visit the Texas government website for labor laws and worker rights.
- For federal labor standards, the U.S. Department of Labor website offers extensive resources on wages, hours, and workplace safety.