Cook Salary in Texas City, TX
Cooks in Texas 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 demand for Cooks in Texas City is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy and expanding job market for culinary professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Texas City, TX?
The salary of a Cook in Texas City varies depending on experience level and workplace, but the following table provides an overview at different stages of a Cook’s career.
| 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 | $2,434.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Cooks in Texas City Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips as their role is primarily behind-the-scenes in kitchen preparation rather than direct customer service. Their compensation is typically based on hourly wages or salary without tip income.
Cook Salary in Texas City vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of $14.50 per hour, which corresponds to approximately $30,160 per year.
Comparing this to Texas City, Cooks earn slightly below the national hourly average at $13.90 per hour and an annual salary close to $28,912. This difference may reflect local labor market conditions and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Texas City for Cooks
Nearby areas that offer higher pay for Cooks include:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- Waterfront District: $17.60 per hour
Working in these districts may offer better compensation compared to Texas City proper, making commuting a potential option for earning more as a Cook.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Texas City?
Multiple factors have an impact on how much a Cook can earn in Texas City:
- Experience and Skill Level: Experienced Cooks with diverse culinary skills tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Employment at upscale or busy restaurants often pays better than fast food or casual dining venues.
- Location: Working in high-demand urban districts or popular culinary spots may increase earnings.
- Shift Hours: Evening or weekend shifts can sometimes come with differential pay.
- Certifications: Having culinary certifications can improve job prospects and salary.
How To Become a Cook in Texas City
Starting a career as a Cook in Texas City involves some key steps to prepare:
- Complete Culinary Training: Consider programs such as the College of the Mainland Culinary Arts Program which offers comprehensive training and hands-on kitchen experience, or the Galveston College Culinary Arts Program focusing on culinary techniques and hospitality management.
- Obtain Certifications: Professional certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification help ensure knowledge of food safety. Additionally, the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) Certification is essential if handling or serving alcoholic beverages.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working in kitchens to build skills and understanding of food preparation is crucial.
- Seek Entry-Level Positions: Starting as a prep cook or line cook can provide valuable on-the-job training.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Texas City
Several well-known companies often hire Cooks in Texas City, including:
- McDonald's
- Panda Express
- Sodexo
Establishments That Cooks in Texas City Work At
Cooks find employment in a variety of establishments across Texas City such as:
- Fast Food Chains: Typically offer entry-level opportunities with moderate pay but high turnover.
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These venues offer more consistent hours and potentially higher pay.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Often provide steady work and may include benefits.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Cater to upscale clientele and usually offer the highest compensation for skilled Cooks.
The type of establishment can significantly influence salary, with higher-end places generally paying more for experienced culinary talent.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Texas City for Cooks
If you are considering similar career paths to a Cook, you may explore the following opportunities:
These include Line Cook, Commis Chef, and Kitchen Manager, each offering different responsibilities and salary ranges within the culinary industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Texas City
Cooks in Texas City should be aware of federal and state labor laws and tax requirements to protect their rights and understand their obligations.
- For federal regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For Texas-specific workforce and labor information, see the Texas Workforce Commission website.