Cook Salary in Denton, TX
Cooks in Denton, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $14.76 per hour, which translates to about $590.40 per week, $2,558.40 per month, and $30,700.80 per year.
The demand for Cooks is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for employment opportunities in the culinary field in Denton.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Denton, TX?
The salary of a Cook in Denton can vary depending on experience and employer, but the following table outlines typical pay ranges for entry-level, mid-level, and top earners.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.76 | $470.40 | $2,033.60 | $24,403.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.76 | $590.40 | $2,558.40 | $30,700.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.52 | $740.80 | $3,197.87 | $38,489.60 |
Do Cooks in Denton Earn Tips?
Cooks in Denton generally do not earn tips as their work takes place behind the scenes in kitchens. Their earnings primarily come from their base salary or hourly wages without additional tip income.
Cook Salary in Denton vs. National Average
The national average hourly wage for a Cook is approximately $16.00 per hour, resulting in an annual salary of about $33,280.
In comparison, Cooks in Denton earn slightly less at an average of $14.76 per hour and $30,700.80 annually. This difference is influenced by local economic factors and living costs.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Denton for Cooks
Nearby areas often offer different salary levels for Cooks, such as:
- Argyle: $16.39 per hour
- Frisco: $15.40 per hour
Cooks in Argyle can expect higher hourly wages than those in Frisco or Denton, reflecting local demand and market conditions.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Denton?
Several factors contribute to how much a Cook can earn in Denton:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced and skilled Cooks tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels may offer better pay compared to fast food or casual dining.
- Specialized Culinary Skills: Expertise in certain cuisines or cooking techniques can increase salary potential.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Night or weekend shifts sometimes provide shift differentials that increase earnings.
- Local Economic Conditions: The overall economic environment of Denton, including cost of living, impacts wage levels.
How To Become a Cook in Denton
Starting a career as a Cook in Denton can involve several important steps:
- Education and Training: Programs like the North Central Texas College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive culinary training with hands-on experience.
- Hospitality Management Education: The University of North Texas Hospitality Management Program provides broader education including culinary and hospitality management.
- Certifications: Obtaining the ServSafe Food Handler Certification, required in Texas, ensures knowledge of food safety practices.
- Alcohol Service Certification: The Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) Certification is necessary for handling and serving alcoholic beverages.
- Gain Practical Experience: Many start as kitchen assistants or prep cooks to build skills and move up.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Denton
Some of the leading employers currently hiring Cooks in the Denton area include:
- Chili's
- IHOP
- Denny's
- Sonic Drive-In
- Morrison Healthcare
Establishments That Cooks in Denton Work At
Cooks in Denton typically find employment in various types of establishments such as casual dining restaurants, fast casual chains, institutional food service, and catering companies.
The type of establishment can significantly affect salary; for example, fine dining restaurants and healthcare food service providers often pay higher wages than fast food outlets or small cafes.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Denton for Cook
If you are considering careers related to a Cook, here are some similar hospitality roles worth exploring:
These include Line Cook, Head Chef, and Chef, which share culinary and kitchen responsibilities with varied levels of specialization and management.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Denton
Cooks in Denton should be informed about pertinent labor laws and tax rules to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- More information on employment standards and labor laws in Texas can be found at the Texas Workforce Commission's official site.
- For comprehensive federal labor regulations and guidelines, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.