Chef Salary in Texas
The median chef salary in Texas is $51,998 per year, which is 8% below the national median of $56,520.
Chef Salary Overview in Texas (2026)
Texas ranks #30 out of 50 states for chef compensation. Chef salaries in Texas are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $51,998 per year, chefs in Texas earn $4,522 less than the national median of $56,520.
A key advantage of working in Texas is its below-average cost of living (92% of the national index). This means the $51,998 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $56,520 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Texas is significant: chefs at the 10th percentile earn $30,544, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $89,976 — a $59,432 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Texas for this role is Austin, where the median reaches $59,346.
Nationally, chef employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for chefs across the country.
Chef Salary in Texas by Experience
In Texas, an entry-level chef earns around $32,200, while experienced professionals earn up to $80,960 per year. The cost of living index in Texas is 92% of the national average.
Save More on Student Loans
Earning $51,998? You may qualify for student loan refinancing rates as low as 4.49% — potentially saving $14,000+ over the life of your loan.
Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Texas
| Percentile | TX Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $30,544 |
| 25th Percentile | $38,824 |
| Median (50th) | $51,998 |
| 75th Percentile | $69,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $89,976 |
Chef Salary by City in Texas
The largest employment areas for chefs in Texas include Houston, Dallas, Austin, and San Antonio. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Chef in Texas
Education
Most chef positions require a high school diploma. Texas has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Texas
Nationally, chef employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Texas's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Stand Out from the Competition
85% of recruiters say a professionally written resume increases interview rates by 40%. Stand out from 164,800 other Chefs.
Get a Professional Resume →Open to Chef Roles in Texas?
Get matched with recruiters hiring chefs in Texas at competitive salaries.
Or browse positions directly: