Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria Salary in Houston, TX

In Houston, TX, cooks working in institutions and cafeterias earn a median annual salary of $33,590, which translates to approximately $16.15 per hour. This figure is notably lower than the national median salary for the occupation, set at $36,450 annually. When compared to the local household income, which stands at an area median of $80,458, the typical earnings for these cooks represent a modest portion. This discrepancy highlights the economic challenges faced by individuals in this occupation within the Houston metropolitan area, where the cost of living may exert additional pressure on households relying primarily on such incomes.

At the entry-level, cooks can expect to earn around $24,040 annually, which places them at the 10th percentile, while those in more experienced roles might see earnings as high as $44,180, at the 90th percentile. This broad range in potential earnings reflects a variety of factors that drive wage differences within the occupation. Experience and skill level are primary contributors to higher salaries, with seasoned cooks often commanding better wages due to their proficiency and reliability in managing kitchen operations efficiently. Additionally, larger institutions or high-volume cafeterias may offer more competitive compensation packages compared to smaller establishments, further influencing the earning potential for experienced workers.