Cook Salary in Round-Rock, TX
Cooks in Round-Rock, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $16.82 per hour, which translates to about $672.80 per week, $2,915.47 per month, and $34,985.60 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Round-Rock is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy outlook in the hospitality industry within the region.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Round-Rock, TX?
The salary of a Cook in Round-Rock varies based on experience and skill, but here’s an overview by experience level:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.46 | $538.40 | $2,330.93 | $27,980.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.82 | $672.80 | $2,915.47 | $34,985.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.02 | $840.80 | $3,613.87 | $43,721.60 |
Do Cooks in Round-Rock Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is primarily behind the scenes preparing food. Their earnings are mostly based on wages or salary without additional tipping income.
Cook Salary in Round-Rock vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $18 per hour, which translates to approximately $37,440 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Round-Rock earn a bit less, making about $16.82 per hour or $34,985.60 annually. This gap can be because of regional cost of living differences or local market demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Round-Rock for Cooks
Nearby areas offer slightly different pay scales for Cooks in Round-Rock:
- Downtown Round Rock: $18.50 per hour
- La Frontera: $17.75 per hour
Cooks working in Downtown Round Rock earn the highest wages among neighboring areas, making it a lucrative nearby region to consider.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Round-Rock?
Several factors affect how much a Cook in Round-Rock can earn:
- Experience and Skill Level: Cooks with more culinary skills or years in the field tend to secure higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels generally pays better than casual dining or fast food.
- Work Shifts: Evening or weekend shifts might come with premium pay.
- Certifications and Training: Additional culinary certifications can boost earning potential.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Area-specific demand for skilled Cooks can influence salary rates.
How To Become a Cook in Round-Rock
To start a career as a Cook in Round-Rock, consider the following steps:
- Enroll in the Culinary Arts Program at Round Rock ISD: This comprehensive program offers courses from Principles of Hospitality and Tourism to Advanced Culinary Arts, along with industry certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler's Test and ServSafe Manager's Exam.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Passing the ServSafe Food Handler's Test and progressing to the ServSafe Manager's Exam enhances credibility and job prospects.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level kitchen positions or apprenticeships can help you develop essential skills in a real-world setting.
- Network and Seek Employment: Engage with local culinary events and prospective employers for opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Round-Rock
Some of the prominent employers recruiting Cooks in Round-Rock include:
- Watermark Retirement Communities
- First Watch
- RESORT LIFESTYLE COMMUNITIES
- St. David's HealthCare
- Kalahari Resorts & Conventions
Establishments That Cooks in Round-Rock Work At
Cooks typically find employment in a variety of food service establishments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often provide stable work with moderate pay and opportunities for experience.
- Fast Casual and Fast Food: These may offer entry-level roles and faster advancement but typically lower pay.
- Hotels and Resorts: Tend to pay higher wages due to more complex menu preparations and added responsibilities.
- Retirement Communities and Healthcare Facilities: These establishments usually provide steady hours and benefits, sometimes with competitive pay.
The type of establishment significantly impacts salary, with upscale venues generally offering the best pay.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Round-Rock for Cooks
If you are exploring roles related to being a Cook, consider these similar careers:
These include Line Cook, Prep Cook, and Commis Chef positions, which share similar culinary skills and responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Round-Rock
Cooks should be informed about labor and tax regulations applicable in Texas and federally to ensure fair work practices and proper compliance.
- For state-specific labor laws and employment regulations, visit the Texas government website.
- For federal labor standards and information, consult the U.S. Department of Labor's official website.