Cook Salary in San Antonio, TX
Cooks in San Antonio, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $14.06 per hour, which converts to about $562.40 per week, $2,437.07 per month, and $29,244.80 per year.
The demand for Cooks in San Antonio is growing positively at about 5% per year, reflecting increasing opportunities in the city's expanding food service and hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Cook Make in San Antonio, TX?
The salary of a Cook in San Antonio varies based on experience and skill level. Below is an overview of typical earnings at different experience stages.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.12 | $404.80 | $1,751.47 | $21,057.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.06 | $562.40 | $2,437.07 | $29,244.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.53 | $781.20 | $3,386.87 | $40,622.40 |
Do Cooks in San Antonio Earn Tips?
Cooks typically do not earn tips as their work is primarily behind the scenes and not direct customer-facing. Their income mainly consists of their hourly wages and salaries.
Cook Salary in San Antonio vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks make around $15.98 per hour, which totals approximately $33,238.40 annually.
Compared to the national figures, Cooks in San Antonio earn slightly less, at an average of $14.06 hourly and about $29,244.80 annually. This difference may be influenced by local economic factors and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near San Antonio for Cooks
Nearby regions offer slightly higher pay for Cooks:
- Downtown: $16.50 per hour
- Alamo Heights: $17.00 per hour
Exploring employment in these areas may provide opportunities for increased earnings compared to San Antonio's average.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in San Antonio?
The salary a Cook earns in San Antonio can be affected by several important factors:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Cooks with refined culinary techniques tend to command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale restaurants typically offers better wages than fast-food or casual dining venues.
- Culinary Certifications: Obtaining certifications can improve prospects and salary potential.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts may offer shift differentials, increasing earnings.
- Local Economic Conditions: Area demand and cost of living influence wage rates.
How To Become a Cook in San Antonio
Starting a career as a Cook in San Antonio can be facilitated by several key steps and educational resources.
Formal culinary education, such as programs at the Culinary Institute of America (CIA) Texas Campus located in San Antonio's Pearl District, provide valuable hands-on experience and knowledge focused on diverse cuisines including Latin American specialties.
Additionally, obtaining certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification is widely recognized and often required to demonstrate food safety expertise.
Cooks who handle or serve alcoholic beverages may also need the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) Certification to comply with state regulations.
Practical work experience through apprenticeships or entry-level kitchen roles is crucial for skill development and career advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in San Antonio
Several reputable employers in San Antonio actively seek skilled Cooks:
- Luby's
- Willie's Grill & Icehouse
- Panda Express
Establishments That Cooks in San Antonio Work At
Cooks in San Antonio commonly find work at a variety of establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer steady employment with moderate wages and consistent hours.
- Fast Casual Chains: Faster paced environments with competitive entry-level pay.
- Fine Dining Venues: Potential for higher wages with greater culinary skill demands and prestige.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Opportunities for diversified cooking roles, sometimes with benefits.
The type of establishment significantly impacts salary, with upscale venues offering the highest earning potential due to the complexity and quality standards of food preparation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in San Antonio for Cooks
Those interested in related hospitality roles may consider these similar careers:
The listed roles include Line Cook, Commis Chef, and Head Chef, each involving culinary skills close to those of a Cook but with varying responsibility levels.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in San Antonio
Cooks should familiarize themselves with relevant labor laws and tax requirements to protect their rights and ensure compliance.
- For federal labor laws and workplace standards, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Details on state employment regulations and workforce programs are available at the Texas Workforce Commission.