Energy capital, NASA, world-class medical center. Here's how Chef / Head Cooks in Houston get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the Houston metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $50,400 | $38,200 | $65,500 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $62,600 | $47,500 | $81,500 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $72,000 | $54,700 | $93,700 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $86,400 | $65,600 | $112,400 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $97,900 | $74,300 | $127,400 |
Highest-paying metros for Chef / Head Cooks — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Houston metro economy.
The average Chef / Head Cook salary in the Houston metro is $72,000 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $54,700 to $93,700 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $118,900 or more.
Yes — Houston pays -2% relative to the Texas state median for Chef / Head Cooks. Major metros typically concentrate higher-paying employers and command a wage premium over rural and small-city areas in the same state.
Houston vs. national: +6%. Houston pays roughly in line with the national average for Chef / Head Cooks. Whether that's a 'good' deal depends on local cost of living and your career stage.
In Houston, the median Chef / Head Cook salary of $72,000 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Chef / Head Cooks in Houston start around $50,400, while seniors (10+ years) reach $86,400 or more.
Metro medians are useful benchmarks — but your exact number depends on your experience, education, and the specific employer. Run the free calculator for a personalized read.
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