Cook Salary in Dallas, TX
Cooks in Dallas, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $15.80 per hour, which translates to about $632.00 per week, $2,738.67 per month, and $32,864.00 per year.
The demand for cooks in Dallas is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for employment opportunities in the culinary sector in this vibrant city.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Dallas, TX?
The salary of a Cook in Dallas can vary depending on experience and establishment type, but here is a general overview of earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $9.75 | $390.00 | $1,690.00 | $20,280.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.80 | $632.00 | $2,738.67 | $32,864.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $25.60 | $1,024.00 | $4,426.67 | $53,248.00 |
Do Cooks in Dallas Earn Tips?
Cooks typically do not earn tips as their work mostly happens behind the scenes in the kitchen. Their compensation is primarily based on their wages or salary without additional tip income.
Cook Salary in Dallas vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of about $15.80 per hour and $32,864.00 per year.
In Dallas, the average hourly and yearly pay for Cooks matches the national average, reflecting the city's competitive culinary job market and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Dallas for Cooks
When exploring nearby areas, Cook salaries can differ slightly:
- Downtown Dallas: $17.50 per hour
- Uptown Dallas: $18.00 per hour
These central areas offer slightly higher wages compared to the city average, likely due to upscale dining establishments and higher living costs.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Dallas?
Several factors play a role in determining a Cook’s salary in Dallas:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Cooks with specialized culinary skills often command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels generally results in better compensation than in fast food or casual dining.
- Certifications and Training: Pursuing culinary education and food safety certifications can enhance earning potential.
- Shift Timing and Hours: Evening or weekend shifts may pay more due to demand and working conditions.
How To Become a Cook in Dallas
Developing a career as a Cook in Dallas involves several key steps:
- Complete Culinary Training: Enroll in programs such as the El Centro College Culinary Arts Program or the Dallas College Culinary, Pastry and Hospitality Center for hands-on training and knowledge.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are essential for meeting health standards in kitchens.
- Gain Practical Experience: Starting as a kitchen assistant or line cook can provide valuable skills and industry insight.
- Consider Professional Credentials: Achieving recognition such as the Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation can improve job prospects and salary.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Dallas
Several prominent employers in Dallas regularly seek skilled Cooks, including:
- UT Southwestern Medical Center
- Compass Group
- Five Star Senior Living
- Luna Grill
- Wingstop
Establishments That Cooks in Dallas Work At
Cooks in Dallas typically find employment across a range of establishments:
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Offering entry-level opportunities but usually with modest pay.
- Hotels and Catering Companies: Often provide higher wages and benefits due to larger scale operations.
- Hospitals and Senior Living Facilities: Such as UT Southwestern Medical Center and Five Star Senior Living, usually offer stable employment with consistent pay.
- Specialty and Ethnic Eateries: May pay more depending on the cuisine demand and location.
The type of establishment heavily influences salary, with upscale venues and larger corporations typically offering increased opportunities for advancement and pay.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Dallas for Cooks
If you're interested in roles related to cooking, consider exploring these positions that share similar skills and career paths:
These include Commis Chef, Fry Cook, and Prep Cook roles, each offering different responsibilities and salary ranges within the culinary field.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Dallas
Cooks should be aware of relevant labor laws and tax regulations to understand their rights and obligations fully.
- Check the Federal website for the U.S. Department of Labor for information on nationwide labor laws and regulations.
- The Texas Workforce Commission website offers resources on employment standards and laws specific to Texas.