How to Become a Food Preparation Workers in Texas
Food Preparation Workers in Texas earn a median salary of $28,660/year, which is 16% below the national average. Texas has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a food preparation workers takes home approximately $677/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.
What a food preparation workers can afford in Texas
Becoming a food preparation workers in Texas
Meet education requirements
Food Preparation Workers positions in Texas typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Texas. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many food preparation workers positions in Texas require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Texas licensure or certification
Texas may require specific licensing or professional certification for food preparation workerss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Texas Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Texas
Texas employs 106,040 food preparation workers. The highest concentrations are in Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos and Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington.
Food Preparation Workers salary by metro area in Texas
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos | $33K | $16.01/hr | 10,020 |
| Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington | $30K | $14.54/hr | 24,250 |
| Houston-Pasadena-The Woodlands | $30K | $14.31/hr | 22,840 |
| Midland | $30K | $14.24/hr | 840 |
| San Antonio-New Braunfels | $30K | $14.22/hr | 8,560 |
| Sherman-Denison | $28K | $13.56/hr | 530 |
| Odessa | $28K | $13.45/hr | 990 |
| Waco | $28K | $13.39/hr | 1,330 |
| Corpus Christi | $27K | $13.08/hr | 2,490 |
| Killeen-Temple | $27K | $12.99/hr | 1,790 |
| San Angelo | $27K | $12.98/hr | 580 |
| College Station-Bryan | $27K | $12.94/hr | 1,580 |
| Beaumont-Port Arthur | $27K | $12.94/hr | 1,400 |
| Amarillo | $27K | $12.78/hr | 1,230 |
| Abilene | $27K | $12.77/hr | 770 |
Food Preparation Workers salary range in Texas
Food Preparation Workers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a food preparation workers make in Texas?▼
The median food preparation workers salary in Texas is $28,660 per year ($13.78/hr). This is 16% below the national median of $34,220. Salaries range from $22,040 to $38,860.
What are the requirements to become a food preparation workers in Texas?▼
Food Preparation Workers positions in Texas typically require No formal educational credential. Texas may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Texas licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a food preparation workers afford to live in Texas?▼
At the median salary of $28,660, a food preparation workers in Texas would take home approximately $2,089/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 67.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for food preparation workers in Texas?▼
The highest paying metro areas for food preparation workers in Texas are Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos ($33,310), Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington ($30,250), Houston-Pasadena-The Woodlands ($29,770). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Texas have state income tax for food preparation workers?▼
No, Texas does not have a state income tax. This means food preparation workers keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.