Chef Salary in Houston, Texas
The median chef salary in Houston, TX is $54,259 per year, which is 4% below the national median and 4.3% above the Texas state average.
Chef Pay in Houston: What to Expect (2026)
Houston offers a median chef salary of $54,259, which is $2,261 above the Texas state average of $51,998. Compared to the national median of $56,520, Houston pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Houston's cost of living is 96% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for chefs in Houston spans from $31,872 at the 10th percentile to $93,888 at the 90th percentile — a $62,016 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $33,600, while senior chefs with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $84,480. As a major metro area with a population of 2,304,580, Houston typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.
Chef Salary in Houston by Experience
In Houston, an entry-level chef earns around $33,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $84,480 per year. The local cost of living index is 96% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Houston, TX
| Percentile | Houston |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $31,872 |
| 25th Percentile | $40,512 |
| Median (50th) | $54,259 |
| 75th Percentile | $72,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $93,888 |
Chef Salary in Other Texas Cities
How to Become a Chef in Houston
Education
Most chef positions require a high school diploma. Houston and the surrounding Texas area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, chef employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Houston may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chef Jobs in Houston
Browse open chef positions in Houston, TX: