Restaurant Cook Salary in Texas (2026)
Texas · 5.0% below national average · High Demand
| City | Avg Salary | vs National | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Houston | $35,275 | -3.0% | High |
| San Antonio | $32,729 | -10.0% | High |
| Dallas | $36,002 | -1.0% | High |
| Austin | $39,275 | +8.0% | High |
| Fort Worth | $34,911 | -4.0% | High |
| El Paso | $29,820 | -18.0% | High |
| Arlington | $35,275 | -3.0% | High |
| Corpus Christi | $31,638 | -13.0% | High |
| Plano | $37,093 | +2.0% | High |
| Laredo | $29,093 | -20.0% | High |
| Lubbock | $29,820 | -18.0% | High |
| Garland | $34,548 | -5.0% | High |
Texas is home to a strong job market for Restaurant Cooks. The state's key industries — Energy, Technology, Healthcare — generate significant demand for skilled professionals. At $36,366 per year, Texas's Restaurant Cook salaries are 5.0% lower than the national average.
The cost of living in Texas (index: 0.95) makes salaries stretch further than in higher-cost states. Entry-level professionals in Texas can expect to earn $24,634–$30,904, while experienced Restaurant Cooks can command $45,011–$50,063.
Looking ahead, the Restaurant Cook profession in Texas is projected to grow at 3.0% annually. Major employers are actively hiring, and the state's investment in Energy continues to drive new opportunities for qualified candidates.
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What is the average Restaurant Cook salary in Texas?The average Restaurant Cook salary in Texas is $36,366 per year in 2026, which is 5.0% below the national average of $38,280.
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What city in Texas pays Restaurant Cooks the most?Major metro areas typically pay Restaurant Cooks the highest wages in Texas due to higher costs of living and competitive job markets.
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Is Texas a good state for Restaurant Cooks?Texas has a strong job market with major industries in Energy, Technology, Healthcare. This makes it one of the better states for Restaurant Cook employment.
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How does Texas Restaurant Cook salary compare to the US average?At $36,366/year, Texas Restaurant Cook salaries are 5.0% lower than the national average of $38,280/year.