Cook Salary in The Woodlands, TX
Cooks in The Woodlands, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $13.14 per hour, which translates to about $525.60 per week, $2,277.60 per month, and $27,331.20 per year.
The demand for Cooks in The Woodlands is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities in the food service industry in the area.
How Much Does a Cook Make in The Woodlands, TX?
The salary of a Cook in The Woodlands varies depending on experience and the specific employer. Below is an overview of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.21 | $408.40 | $1,770.07 | $21,240.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $13.14 | $525.60 | $2,277.60 | $27,331.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $16.91 | $676.40 | $2,919.47 | $35,132.80 |
Do Cooks in The Woodlands Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips because their responsibilities are primarily behind the scenes in the kitchen. Their compensation typically consists of wages or salary rather than gratuities.
Cook Salary in The Woodlands vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $16.02 per hour, which equates to approximately $33,321.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in The Woodlands earn less per hour and annually, with an average hourly wage of $13.14 and an annual salary of $27,331.20. This discrepancy is influenced by local market conditions and cost of living factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near The Woodlands for Cooks
Nearby areas offer varying salaries for Cooks as follows:
- Area 1: $15.50 per hour
- Area 2: $17.60 per hour
Areas near The Woodlands can provide higher pay rates for Cooks, offering opportunities for those willing to commute.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in The Woodlands?
Several factors impact a Cook’s earnings in The Woodlands, TX:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Cooks with specialized skills such as grilling, sautéing, or menu planning command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Cooks working in fine dining or upscale restaurants often earn more than those in fast food or casual dining.
- Certifications and Training: Formal culinary education or food safety certifications can increase earning potential.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Cooks who take on night shifts or weekend hours may receive shift differentials boosting their pay.
How To Become a Cook in The Woodlands
Interested in becoming a Cook in The Woodlands? Here are some helpful pathways:
- Complete Culinary Arts Training: Consider programs such as the Lone Star College Culinary Arts Program or The Art Institute of Houston Culinary Arts Program for comprehensive culinary education.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Credentials such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and Texas Food Manager Certification are valuable for ensuring food safety compliance.
- Gain Practical Kitchen Experience: Starting in entry-level kitchen roles, such as Prep Cook or Kitchen Assistant, helps develop essential skills.
- Build a Portfolio: A portfolio of dishes or specialized cooking techniques can showcase your skills to potential employers.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in The Woodlands
Several notable employers regularly seek skilled Cooks in The Woodlands, including:
- P.F. Chang's
- Flower Child
- Black Walnut Cafe
Establishments That Cooks in The Woodlands Work At
Cooks typically find positions in various establishments, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These provide steady work but may offer moderate wages.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Often involving high volume but lower prices, affecting pay levels.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Usually offer higher salaries reflecting the skill level required.
- Hotels and Resorts: Can provide stable, often higher-paying positions with potential benefits.
The type of establishment influences salary levels, with upscale and fine dining locations generally offering better compensation packages compared to fast food or casual diners.
Related Hospitality Jobs in The Woodlands for Cooks
If you are considering related careers within the hospitality industry, here are some positions to explore:
These include Line Cook, Head Chef, and Commis Chef—roles that involve similar culinary skills and may offer opportunities for advancement.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in The Woodlands
Cooks in The Woodlands should familiarize themselves with relevant labor laws and tax obligations to protect their rights and manage finances effectively.
- Visit the Texas official state website for comprehensive information on state labor laws, employment regulations, and worker rights.
- Consult the U.S. Department of Labor website for federal labor laws, wage standards, and occupational safety guidelines.