How Chef / Head Cooks in Texas get paid in 2026 — median, range, experience tiers, metro breakdown, and a comparison against national pay.
Pay tiers reflect typical Texas compensation across career stages. Specialized employers may pay above these ranges.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $51,100 | $38,900 | $66,500 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $63,500 | $48,300 | $82,700 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $73,100 | $55,600 | $95,100 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $87,700 | $66,700 | $114,100 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $99,400 | $75,600 | $129,300 |
Pay varies sharply within Texas. Major metros usually outpay state-wide averages.
| Metro | Median | 25th % | 75th % | vs Texas |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austin | $76,400 | $58,000 | $99,300 | +5% |
| Dallas–Fort Worth | $74,200 | $56,400 | $96,500 | +2% |
| Houston | $72,000 | $54,700 | $93,700 | -2% |
Top occupations by median pay in Texas — useful context if you're weighing a career switch.
If you'd consider relocating, here's how regional and comparable markets pay for the same job.
The average Chef / Head Cook salary in Texas is $73,100 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $55,600 and the 75th at $95,100.
Pay-wise, Texas sits +8% above the national Chef / Head Cook median ($67,700). That makes it one of the stronger markets — though cost of living should always be factored in alongside raw salary.
Senior Chef / Head Cooks (10–14 years of experience) in Texas earn around $87,700 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $99,400 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), Texas ranks 17th for Chef / Head Cook pay. The highest-paying state pays around $98,200 on average.
The median is a benchmark, not a verdict. Your exact market value depends on your experience and education — plus your specific employer's pay band. Run the free calculator for a personalized number.
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