Cook Salary in Missouri City, TX
Cooks in Missouri City, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The job demand for Cooks is growing steadily at about 5% per year, signaling strong opportunities and a positive employment outlook in Missouri City and the surrounding areas.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Missouri City, TX?
The salary of a Cook in Missouri City can vary with experience and skill level, but the general pay ranges are outlined below to give a clear idea of earnings at different stages.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,430.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Cooks in Missouri City Earn Tips?
Cooks typically do not earn tips since their work generally happens behind the scenes in the kitchen without direct customer interaction. Their earnings depend mostly on their hourly salary or wages rather than gratuities.
Cook Salary in Missouri City vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of about $14.50 per hour, which equates to approximately $30,160 per year.
In Missouri City, Cooks earn about $13.90 per hour on average, slightly below the national hourly average, with annual salaries around $28,912. This slight difference can relate to the local cost of living and market factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Missouri City for Cooks
Nearby areas offer these competitive hourly pay rates for Cooks:
- Quail Valley: $15.50 per hour
- Lake Olympia: $17.60 per hour
Those willing to commute to Lake Olympia can potentially earn significantly more, while Quail Valley also provides attractive compensation compared to Missouri City.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Missouri City?
Several factors can affect how much a Cook earns in Missouri City:
- Experience and Skill Set: More experienced Cooks with specialized culinary skills tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale or fine dining restaurants usually pays more than fast food or casual dining.
- Shift Timing: Evening, night, or holiday shifts may come with higher pay rates or differentials.
- Certifications: Holding certifications like ServSafe Food Handler or culinary training can improve earning potential.
- Local Market Conditions: Demand for Cooks and the region’s cost of living influence salaries.
How To Become a Cook in Missouri City
Starting a career as a Cook in Missouri City involves several steps to gain skills and qualifications:
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Programs like the Houston Community College Culinary Arts Program or San Jacinto College Culinary Arts Program provide solid training in culinary techniques and kitchen management.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Earning a ServSafe Food Handler Certification is important to demonstrate knowledge of food safety and hygiene.
- Pursue Professional Credentials: The Certified Culinarian (CC) credential by the American Culinary Federation recognizes competency and can boost employability.
- Gain Experience: Starting in entry-level kitchen roles or apprenticeships provides hands-on skills.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Missouri City
Prominent employers in Missouri City regularly hiring Cooks include:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Cooks in Missouri City Work At
Cooks in Missouri City commonly find employment in a variety of establishments such as:
- Fast Food Restaurants: These typically offer entry-level opportunities but often have lower pay scales.
- Casual Dining: These establishments pay moderate wages with some room for advancement.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Restaurants: Higher skill requirements and pay scales are common here.
- Hotel and Catering Services: Larger venues sometimes offer better salaries and benefits.
The type of establishment directly impacts salary, with upscale and specialty venues generally offering the highest pay.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Missouri City for Cooks
If you're interested in roles similar to Cook, here are some related positions you might consider pursuing:
These include Line Cook, Commis Chef, and Kitchen Manager, which involve related culinary skills and responsibilities within the kitchen environment.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Missouri City
Cooks should be aware of applicable labor laws and tax requirements in Texas to ensure compliance and proper work conditions.
- Visit the Texas state government website for information on wage laws, employment standards, and labor rights.
- For comprehensive federal labor regulations, the U.S. Department of Labor website offers valuable resources and guidance.