Line Cook Salary in Houston, TX
Line Cooks in Houston, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $15.02 per hour, which translates to about $600.80 per week, $2,603.47 per month, and $31,241.60 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Houston is growing steadily at about 6% per year, showing a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in this culinary field.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Houston, TX?
The salary of a Line Cook in Houston varies depending on experience, skill level, and workplace, but the following breakdown gives an overall picture of earning potential.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.00 | $640.00 | $2,773.33 | $33,280.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.00 | $800.00 | $3,466.67 | $41,600.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Houston Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips as they work primarily behind the scenes preparing food rather than interacting directly with customers. Their compensation usually relies on their hourly wage or salary.
Line Cook Salary in Houston vs. National Average
The national average hourly wage for a Line Cook is about $18.00 per hour, with annual earnings of approximately $37,440.
Compared to this, Line Cooks in Houston earn slightly less on average at $15.02 per hour and an annual salary of $31,241.60. This difference may reflect the local cost of living and demand for culinary workers in the Houston area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Houston for Line Cooks
Nearby areas offering higher pay rates for Line Cooks include:
- Downtown: $18.00 per hour
- Galleria: $17.50 per hour
These areas tend to have a higher cost of living and often more upscale dining establishments, which increases pay for culinary staff including Line Cooks.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Houston?
Several factors influence how much a Line Cook can earn in Houston:
- Experience Level: More experienced Line Cooks command higher wages due to greater efficiency and culinary skills.
- Skills and Specializations: Knowledge of diverse cuisines, knife skills, and ability to work under pressure can boost earnings.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants typically pay more than fast food or casual dining venues.
- Shift and Hours: Working night shifts or weekends may come with additional pay.
- Location: Establishments in high-demand neighborhoods or commercial hubs often offer better pay.
How To Become a Line Cook in Houston
Starting a career as a Line Cook in Houston involves several steps to improve your employability and earning potential:
- Gain Basic Culinary Skills: Many start with on-the-job training, but formal programs can accelerate learning.
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Schools like the Culinary Institute Lenotre and Art Institute of Houston offer programs to build foundational cooking skills and techniques.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the Food Handler's Permit required in Texas and the nationally recognized ServSafe Certification are essential for handling food safely.
- Develop Work Experience: Starting as a prep cook or kitchen assistant before progressing to Line Cook is common.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Houston
Houston's food scene includes several prominent employers looking for skilled Line Cooks:
- Brennan's of Houston
- Hugo's
- Kata Robata
Establishments That Line Cooks in Houston Work At
Line Cooks in Houston can find employment at a variety of establishments including:
- Casual Dining: Moderate pay and steady schedules are typical here; ideal for those gaining experience.
- Fast Casual: Often offers faster-paced environments with slightly varied pay based on volume.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Higher pay potential and skill requirements; these establishments usually demand precision and expertise.
- Hotels and Catering Services: These venues may offer competitive wages and opportunities for advancement.
The type of restaurant or kitchen significantly impacts salary, responsibility levels, and career growth prospects.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Houston for Line Cooks
If you are interested in roles similar to Line Cook, consider these related hospitality positions in Houston:
These include Fry Cook, Commis Chef, and Chef de Partie, all of which require culinary skills and offer varying salary potentials.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Houston
Line Cooks need to be informed about labor laws and tax obligations to protect their rights and manage finances.
- For federal labor laws and regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Texas-specific workforce and labor information is available at the Texas Workforce Commission website.