Cook Salary in Sugar Land, TX
Cooks in Sugar Land, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $15.25 per hour, which translates to about $610.00 per week, $2,643.33 per month, and $31,720.00 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Sugar Land is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating positive job outlook and expanding opportunities in the local hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Sugar Land, TX?
The salary of a Cook in Sugar Land varies depending on experience and skill level. Below is a breakdown across typical earning tiers:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.10 | $444.00 | $1,918.00 | $23,088.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.25 | $610.00 | $2,643.33 | $31,720.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.95 | $838.00 | $3,616.53 | $43,576.00 |
Do Cooks in Sugar Land Earn Tips?
Cooks typically do not earn tips as their work is usually performed behind the scenes in the kitchen. Their compensation primarily comes from hourly wages or salaries.
Cook Salary in Sugar Land vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn on average about $16.00 per hour, which is approximately $33,280 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Sugar Land earn slightly less at around $15.25 per hour and $31,720 annually. This difference may reflect regional cost of living and market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Sugar Land for Cooks
Nearby establishments offering higher pay for Cooks include:
- First Watch: $21.90 per hour
- P.F. Chang's: $20.00 per hour
These employers tend to offer better compensation packages, reflecting their scale and customer base.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Sugar Land?
Several factors can influence how much a Cook earns in Sugar Land:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More skilled and experienced Cooks generally command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Workplaces range from casual dining to upscale restaurants, impacting salary levels accordingly.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts may offer shift differentials or overtime pay.
- Certifications and Training: Additional culinary certifications can improve earning potential.
- Local Market Demand: Competitive job markets may push salaries higher to attract talent.
How To Become a Cook in Sugar Land
Here are some steps to pursue a career as a Cook in Sugar Land:
- Obtain Food Handler Certification: This certification is required for all food service employees in Texas and ensures safe food handling knowledge.
- Consider Culinary Education: The Culinary Institute Lenôtre, located in nearby Houston, offers accredited programs in Cuisine, Baking & Pastry, and Hospitality & Restaurant Management, including a 10-week practicum.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working in kitchen assistant roles or internships builds hands-on skills useful for entry-level Cook positions.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Sugar Land
Some of the most notable places hiring Cooks locally include:
- First Watch
- P.F. Chang's
- Pappasito's Cantina
Establishments That Cooks in Sugar Land Work At
Cooks in Sugar Land can find employment in a variety of establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer steady hours and moderate wages, suitable for entry to mid-level Cooks.
- Fast Casual Chains: Often provide a fast-paced work environment with varying wage scales.
- Upscale and Fine Dining: Typically offer higher salaries reflecting advanced skills and experience requirements.
- Resorts and Hotels: Can provide more extensive benefits and higher compensation for experienced Cooks.
The type of establishment significantly affects salary and growth opportunities for Cooks in the area.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Sugar Land for Cooks
If you’re interested in roles related to Cook, consider exploring these similar careers:
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Sugar Land
Cooks should be aware of both federal and state labor regulations to ensure fair working conditions and compliance.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for comprehensive information on wages, hours, and work protections.
- For state-specific employment resources and laws, check the Texas Workforce Commission's official site.