Cook Salary in Pasadena, TX
Cooks in Pasadena, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $17.60 per hour, which translates to about $704.00 per week, $3,050.67 per month, and $36,608.00 per year.
The job demand for Cooks in Pasadena is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating promising opportunities for employment and career advancement in the culinary field in this area.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Pasadena, TX?
The salary of a Cook in Pasadena, TX, varies by experience level and skills. Below is an overview of typical earnings for entry-level, mid-level, and top earners in the region.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.00 | $640.00 | $2,773.33 | $33,280.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.60 | $704.00 | $3,050.67 | $36,608.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.70 | $828.00 | $3,578.00 | $42,960.00 |
Do Cooks in Pasadena Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is primarily behind the scenes preparing food. Their earnings mostly come from their base salary or hourly wage without significant tip income.
Cook Salary in Pasadena, TX vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of about $18.00 per hour, which amounts to approximately $37,440 per year.
Comparing this to Pasadena, TX, Cooks here make slightly less than the national average, earning $17.60 per hour and $36,608 annually. This difference could be influenced by local cost of living and demand factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Pasadena for Cooks
Nearby areas offer competitive wages for Cooks, sometimes exceeding Pasadena's average:
- Downtown Pasadena: $18.50 per hour
- Fairmont: $19.00 per hour
These neighborhoods provide better pay opportunities, which might make commuting worthwhile for experienced Cooks seeking higher earnings.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Pasadena, TX?
Several key factors influence a Cook’s salary in Pasadena, TX:
- Experience and Skill Level: More skilled Cooks or those with years of experience tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants and upscale venues often pay more than fast food or casual establishments.
- Culinary Certifications: Holding certifications can elevate earning potential by demonstrating professional competencies.
- Shift Schedules and Hours: Working evening or weekend shifts may include shift differentials or overtime pay.
- Local Economic Factors: Supply and demand for Cooks in Pasadena will also affect salary levels.
How To Become a Cook in Pasadena, TX
To establish a career as a Cook in Pasadena, TX, consider these steps:
- Complete Culinary Training: Programs like the San Jacinto College Culinary Arts Program and Houston Community College Culinary Arts Program offer solid foundations in cooking techniques and kitchen management.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: The Food Handler Certification is mandatory for all food service workers in Texas, ensuring safe food preparation practices. Additionally, the ServSafe Certification is nationally recognized and highly valued by employers.
- Gain Experience: Start with entry-level kitchen roles or internships to build practical skills and professional connections.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Pasadena, TX
Prominent employers frequently hiring Cooks in Pasadena include:
- Pizza Hut
- Sonic Drive-In
- IHOP
Establishments That Cooks in Pasadena, TX Work At
Cooks in Pasadena find employment across a variety of establishments, each offering different pay scales and working conditions.
- Fast Food Chains: Typically offer lower wages but more entry-level opportunities and flexible hours.
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Usually pay moderately and can offer chances for advancement.
- Fine Dining Establishments: These often provide the highest wages due to skill requirements and customer expectations.
- Catering Services and Hotels: May offer stable employment with potential benefits and training opportunities.
The type of establishment significantly impacts an individual Cook's salary, with upscale venues providing better financial rewards.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Pasadena, TX for Cooks
If you are interested in related careers within the hospitality and culinary fields, consider these options:
These include Line Cook, Commis Chef, and Head Chef, all roles that build on cooking skills and may offer diverse career paths.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Pasadena, TX
Cooks should be aware of relevant labor laws and taxation that affect their employment in Pasadena, TX.
- Federal website for labor laws and regulations provides comprehensive legal information on wages, hours, and workplace safety.
- Texas Workforce Commission offers state-specific employment and labor guidance.
- City of Pasadena official website provides local resources and government information relevant to workers.