Cook Salary in Houston, TX

Updated on Mar 08, 2025
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How much does a Cook make in Houston, TX?

The average salary for a Cook is $30,669 per year in Houston, TX.

In Houston, TX, a Cook earns an average yearly salary of about $30,669. This amount can vary based on experience, skills, and the specific type of cooking job. Entry-level positions start around $20,150 per year, while more experienced cooks can earn up to $40,000 annually.


Many cooks fall into different salary ranges. For example, some may earn around $21,955 after gaining a little more experience. As cooks improve their skills and take on more responsibilities, their pay can increase significantly. Those with skills in specialized areas or high demand can see salaries rise to $36,391 or even $38,195.


Overall, the culinary field offers opportunities for cooks to grow their income with experience and expertise in Houston. This city has a vibrant food scene that can foster career development and advancement for passionate cooks.

View Cook Jobs in Houston, TX

What are the highest paying cities for Cook near Houston, TX?

Cook jobs in the Houston area offer competitive salaries, with Stafford, TX leading the way at an average of $33,365. Bellaire and Tomball follow closely behind, with average salaries of $31,041 and $30,862 respectively. These cities provide excellent opportunities for cooks aiming to advance their careers while enjoying a rewarding lifestyle.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Cook jobs near Houston, TX, highlighting Stafford, TX with the highest at $33,365 and Missouri City, TX with the lowest at $27,582.
  1. Stafford, TX
    Average Salary: $33,365
    Working in Stafford offers a friendly community and a growing food scene. Local favorites, like Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen, provide opportunities to create tasty dishes for residents and visitors alike.
    Find Cook jobs in Stafford, TX


  2. Bellaire, TX
    Average Salary: $31,041
    Bellaire's diverse culture contributes to a vibrant culinary landscape. Restaurants such as The Bellare, known for their contemporary menu, create an exciting environment to explore flavors and cooking techniques.
    Find Cook jobs in Bellaire, TX


  3. Tomball, TX
    Average Salary: $30,862
    Tomball boasts a charming small-town feel with a mix of casual dining and upscale options. With places like The Rustic Brush, cooks can enjoy preparing comfort food in a welcoming atmosphere.
    Find Cook jobs in Tomball, TX


  4. Fresno, TX
    Average Salary: $30,286
    In Fresno, cooks can thrive in a community that appreciates home-style cooking. Local eateries often showcase regional flavors and create a warm dining experience for families.
    Find Cook jobs in Fresno, TX


  5. Sugar Land, TX
    Average Salary: $29,727
    Sugar Land is known for its dynamic restaurant scene, from family-friendly spots to high-end dining. Working in places like The Sugar Factory allows cooks to innovate and serve a diverse clientele.
    Find Cook jobs in Sugar Land, TX


  6. Humble, TX
    Average Salary: $29,697
    Humble's growing restaurant industry offers a mix of flavors, reflecting its multicultural community. Cooks have the chance to work in bustling kitchens and learn from experienced chefs at popular places like Humble City Cafe.
    Find Cook jobs in Humble, TX


  7. Spring, TX
    Average Salary: $28,583
    Spring features a range of dining options, from local favorites to trendy spots. Cooks in this area can find dynamic work environments in restaurants like The Woodlands Resort, focusing on quality and customer satisfaction.
    Find Cook jobs in Spring, TX


  8. Cypress, TX
    Average Salary: $28,297
    Cypress is a community known for its love of food and dining. With popular chains and unique restaurants, cooks can bring their creativity to menus and cater to diverse tastes.
    Find Cook jobs in Cypress, TX


  9. Pasadena, TX
    Average Salary: $28,100
    Pasadena has a rich culinary heritage, with many eateries showcasing traditional Texas fare. Cooks can engage with the community and enhance their skills in restaurants like The BBQ Shack.
    Find Cook jobs in Pasadena, TX


  10. Missouri City, TX
    Average Salary: $27,582
    Missouri City's vibrant dining scene features a variety of international cuisines. Working here allows cooks to expand their skills in preparing authentic dishes at popular venues like Pappadeaux's Seafood Kitchen.
    Find Cook jobs in Missouri City, TX

What are the best paying companies for Cook in Houston, TX?

In Houston, TX, several companies offer attractive salaries for Cook positions. Vandelay Hospitality Group leads the pack with an average salary of $44,500, followed closely by Hillstone Restaurant Group and Pappas Bros. Steakhouse at $41,000 and $40,060, respectively. Other notable employers include Rocket Farm Restaurants and dnata, both offering competitive pay in a thriving culinary scene.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Cook jobs in Houston, TX, highlighting Vandelay Hospitality Group with the highest at $44,500 and Pappas Bar-B-Q with the lowest at $37,845.
  1. Vandelay Hospitality Group
    Average Salary: $44,500
    Vandelay Hospitality Group offers exciting opportunities for Cooks in a vibrant work environment. They focus on modern dining experiences in Houston, providing quality food and exceptional service in locations like downtown and the Galleria area.


  2. Hillstone Restaurant Group
    Average Salary: $41,000
    Hillstone Restaurant Group is known for its upscale dining and offers Cooks a creative role in the kitchen. Their restaurants in Houston value teamwork and maintain high standards in food quality and consistency.


  3. Pappas Bros. Steakhouse
    Average Salary: $40,060
    Pappas Bros. Steakhouse employs talented Cooks to uphold their reputation for top-notch steaks and seafood. Located in Houston, their kitchen team plays a crucial role in delivering an unforgettable dining experience.


  4. Rocket Farm Restaurants
    Average Salary: $40,000
    Rocket Farm Restaurants offers dynamic Cook positions in a variety of concepts, exciting culinary career paths in Houston. They embrace creativity and flavor, making them a great place for culinary professionals.


  5. dnata
    Average Salary: $39,822
    dnata operates catering services in Houston, providing Cooks with a fast-paced and exciting work environment. They focus on high-quality food preparation for airlines and events, offering unique cooking experiences.


  6. MD Anderson Cancer Center
    Average Salary: $39,757
    MD Anderson Cancer Center employs Cooks who prepare nutritious meals for patients and staff. Located in the Texas Medical Center, their kitchen supports health and wellness through quality food options.


  7. Pappasito's Cantina
    Average Salary: $39,580
    Pappasito's Cantina specializes in authentic Mexican cuisine and offers Cooks a chance to showcase their skills. Their locations in Houston provide a lively atmosphere and emphasize flavorful dishes.


  8. Four Seasons
    Average Salary: $38,863
    Four Seasons offers Cooks the chance to work in luxury hospitality. At their Houston location, they focus on high-quality food and exceptional service, providing a unique opportunity for culinary professionals.


  9. The Women's Home
    Average Salary: $38,000
    The Women's Home combines culinary work with community service. Cooks at this organization in Houston help support individuals in need by preparing healthy meals that nourish and empower.


  10. Pappas Bar-B-Q
    Average Salary: $37,845
    Pappas Bar-B-Q is known for its delicious barbecue and offers Cooks a vibrant atmosphere. Their restaurants in Houston celebrate Texas-style barbecue and provide opportunities for creativity and teamwork.

There are 19,010 Cook job openings nationwide!

How's the job market for a Cook in the US?

Learn what a Cook does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Cook today.
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Understanding the Cook Role & How to Become One | ReadySetHire