Cook Salary in Fort Worth, TX
Cooks in Fort Worth, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $14.78 per hour, which translates to about $591.20 per week, $2,561.87 per month, and $30,742.40 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Fort Worth is growing at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job outlook and expanding opportunities in the local culinary and hospitality industries.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Fort Worth, TX?
The salary of a Cook in Fort Worth varies depending on experience, skills, and the establishment, but here is a general overview across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $9.40 | $376.00 | $1,626.67 | $19,552.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.78 | $591.20 | $2,561.87 | $30,742.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.23 | $929.20 | $4,012.27 | $48,318.40 |
Do Cooks in Fort Worth Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is primarily behind the scenes in the kitchen. Their compensation mainly consists of wages or salary rather than tip income.
Cook Salary in Fort Worth vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $16.07 per hour, which equals about $33,425.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Fort Worth earn slightly less, at about $14.78 per hour and $30,742.40 annually. This difference reflects regional cost of living and market demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Fort Worth for Cooks
Salary rates for Cooks can vary by neighborhood within the Fort Worth area. Notably:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- Cultural District: $17.60 per hour
Cooks working in the Cultural District tend to earn higher wages than those in Downtown, likely due to the types of establishments present.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Fort Worth?
Several factors can affect how much a Cook earns in Fort Worth:
- Experience and Skills: More experienced Cooks with refined culinary skills or specialization tend to have higher earnings.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale restaurants, hotels, or country clubs usually provides better pay than casual or fast-food outlets.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening or weekend shifts may offer premium pay.
- Certifications and Training: Food safety certificates and culinary training can enhance salary prospects.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Fort Worth’s growing hospitality sector positively impacts salary levels.
How To Become a Cook in Fort Worth
Becoming a Cook in Fort Worth involves several steps and potential educational paths:
- Culinary Training Programs: Enrolling in programs like the Tarrant County College Culinary Arts Program provides comprehensive training in techniques and kitchen management.
- Hands-on Experience: Institutions such as The Culinary School of Fort Worth offer practical experience and industry connections.
- Certifications: Obtaining required certifications such as the Food Handler's Permit (mandatory in Texas) and the nationally recognized ServSafe Certification can improve employability and compliance with safety standards.
- On-the-Job Training: Many start in entry-level kitchen roles and advance by gaining experience.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Fort Worth
Fort Worth’s hospitality industry features a variety of employers actively hiring Cooks, including:
- Panda Restaurant Group
- River Crest Country Club
- First Watch
Establishments That Cooks in Fort Worth Work At
Cooks in Fort Worth can be found in a diverse range of establishments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These venues often offer steady hours but moderate pay depending on customer volume.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: These typically pay entry-level wages, but volume and tips (for servers) may be higher.
- Hotels and Country Clubs: Higher-end establishments generally offer better salaries and benefits.
- Catering Companies: Opportunities for seasonal and event-based employment can affect pay structures.
The type of establishment has a noticeable impact on Cook salaries, with those employed in upscale or specialized venues typically earning more.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Fort Worth for Cooks
If you’re considering roles similar to Cook, here are some related positions to explore:
These include Fry Cook, Line Cook, and Pastry Cook, roles that share culinary skills and environments with Cooks and may appeal as alternative career paths.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Fort Worth
Understanding labor laws and tax responsibilities is vital for Cooks working in Fort Worth.
- Visit the Texas government website for information on state-specific labor laws, wage standards, and employee rights.
- The U.S. Department of Labor's site provides comprehensive resources on federal labor standards, safety regulations, and tax obligations.