Chef/Head Cook in Moore, OK

The Salary Picture: Where Moore Stands

As someone who's watched the culinary scene in Moore evolve from a few classic diners to a more diverse mix of casual eateries and family restaurants, I can tell you that the numbers tell a straightforward story. For a Chef or Head Cook in Moore, you're looking at a median salary of $58,720/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $28.23/hour. This sits just below the national average of $60,350/year, a gap you'll find in many mid-sized Oklahoma cities. The local job market is tight, with only 126 jobs available for Chef/Head Cooks across the metro area. However, the 10-year job growth projection is a modest 5%, which suggests stability rather than explosive opportunity. You're not coming here to get rich, but you can build a solid, comfortable career.

To give you a clearer picture of where your experience level falls, let's break down the salary expectations within the Moore area. This is based on local market analysis and BLS data trends.

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Key Responsibilities
Entry-Level (0-3 years)	$38,000 - $48,000	Line cook, prep work, basic station management under supervision.
Mid-Level (3-7 years)	$50,000 - $62,000	Managing a station, menu development, training junior staff, cost control.
Senior-Level (7-12 years)	$63,000 - $75,000	Executing full menu concepts, managing kitchen staff, vendor relations, P&L responsibility.
Expert/Executive (12+ years)	$75,000+	Full culinary director, concept creation, multi-unit oversight, high-level financial management.

How does Moore stack up against other Oklahoma cities? It's a middle-ground player.

• Oklahoma City: Salaries trend 10-15% higher due to larger corporate, hotel, and fine-dining employers (think places like the Skirvin Hilton or the Wheeler District). Competition is stiffer.
• Tulsa: Similar to OKC, with a slightly more eclectic scene. Salaries are comparable, but Tulsa's broader arts and tourism sector can offer more creative roles.
• Norman: Home to the University of Oklahoma, Norman has a higher volume of transient dining (near the stadium) and upscale student-adjacent spots. Salaries can be slightly higher for experienced chefs who can navigate the university calendar.
• Edmond: An affluent suburb of OKC, Edmond has a higher concentration of upscale independent restaurants and country clubs. Chef salaries here often exceed Moore's median by a more significant margin.

Insider Tip: Don't get hung up on the median. In Moore, your specific employer matters more than in a large metro. A Head Cook at a high-volume, family-owned restaurant on South I-35 Frontage Road might make more than the median due to sheer volume, while a chef at a smaller, independent spot in Downtown Moore might be on the lower end. Always negotiate based on your specific experience and the business's volume.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's be real about the budget. A $58,720 salary sounds okay, but what's left after Uncle Sam and the landlord? Moore's cost of living is a major advantage—it's 91.0, which is 9% below the national average. The average 1BR rent is just $773/month. Let's break down a monthly budget for a single person earning the median salary.

Monthly Budget Breakdown for a Chef/Head Cook in Moore (Gross: $4,893/month)

Category	Estimated Cost	Notes
Gross Monthly Income	$4,893	Based on $58,720/year
Federal & State Taxes (Est.)	-$975 - $1,150	Highly dependent on withholdings and deductions. Oklahoma has a progressive income tax (4.0% - 5.0% for this bracket).
Social Security & Medicare	-$374	Standard 7.65% deduction
Net Take-Home Pay	~$3,350 - $3,500	This is your post-tax cash flow.
Housing (1BR Apartment)	-$773	Moore average. Can vary by neighborhood.
Utilities (Elec, Gas, Water, Internet)	-$200 - $250	Higher in summer due to AC.
Groceries & Household	-$350 - $400	You'll have access to affordable produce at local markets.
Transportation (Gas, Insurance)	-$200 - $250	Most residents drive. Moore is car-dependent.
Health Insurance	-$200 - $450	If not covered by employer.
Savings/Debt/Discretionary	~$927 - $1,577	This is your "real" breathing room.

Can they afford to buy a home? This is a key question for long-term stability. The median home price in Moore is approximately $185,000 - $200,000. With a $58,720 salary, you are within comfortable lending guidelines (typically 28-30% of gross income for housing).

• Estimated Monthly Mortgage (with 10% down): ~$1,100 - $1,250 (including taxes & insurance).
• Affordability Check: At $1,150/month, a mortgage is about 24% of your gross income. This is very manageable, especially compared to your current rent. A dual-income household (partner/spouse) makes this even more attainable.

Insider Tip: Many local chefs I know have purchased homes in Moore. The affordability is a huge draw. The key is budgeting for the upfront costs (down payment, closing) and having an emergency fund for repairs. The stable, lower cost of living here allows for real savings potential that’s harder to find in OKC or Tulsa.

Where the Jobs Are: Moore's Major Employers

Moore's culinary job market isn't about Michelin stars; it's about volume, family, and community. The employers reflect the city's suburban, family-oriented character.

1. Moore Public Schools: The school district is one of the largest employers in the area. They have a large central kitchen operation and school-based cafeterias. A Chef/Head Cook role here is more about large-scale meal prep, budgeting, and meeting nutritional guidelines than fine dining. It offers stability, good benefits, and summers off. Hiring is cyclical, tied to the school year.

2. Norman Regional Hospital (Moore Campus): While the main hospital is in Norman, the Moore campus on I-35 has a significant cafeteria and patient meal service. These are institutional chef roles focused on volume, dietary restrictions, and consistency. It's a stable, benefits-heavy employer.

3. Local Franchise & Chain Restaurants: Moore has a high density of familiar chains along the I-35 corridor and SW 19th Street. Think Chili's, Applebee's, Texas Roadhouse, Outback Steakhouse. These are the most common employers for Head Cooks. They offer structured training, corporate benefits, and clear promotion paths to Kitchen Manager or GM. Hiring is steady, with turnover creating openings.

4. Independent Family Restaurants: This is the heart of Moore's dining scene. Establishments like The Muffin Man (a local breakfast/lunch institution), Moore's Diner, or El Chico (a local favorite for Tex-Mex) rely on experienced chefs to run their kitchens. These jobs offer more creative input and a family atmosphere but fewer corporate benefits. Networking is key here—get to know the owners.

5. Country Clubs & Venues: Places like The Golf Club at Moore or event venues (e.g., The Foundry in nearby Norman, but catering to Moore clients) hire chefs for banquets, weddings, and member dining. These roles often involve event-based menus and can be lucrative due to tips/gratuities.

Hiring Trends: The market is stable. There's a constant need for skilled line cooks and managers in the franchise sector. Independent restaurants hire less frequently but value loyalty and local knowledge. The post-pandemic shift has increased demand for takeout and catering, so chefs with strong organizational skills for off-premise orders have an edge.

Insider Tip: Get on local Facebook groups like "Moore, OK Foodies" or "Moore Community Board." Job postings for independent spots often appear there before hitting formal job boards. Building relationships with suppliers who service these restaurants (like local meat or produce distributors) is another way to hear about openings.

Getting Licensed in OK

Oklahoma makes it relatively straightforward for culinary professionals. You do not need a state license to be a Chef or Head Cook. However, there are critical certifications and requirements you must meet, especially for managerial roles.

• Food Safety Manager Certification: This is non-negotiable. The Oklahoma Department of Health requires a certified food protection manager (CFPM) to be present during all hours of operation. The most common certification is the ServSafe Food Manager.

  • Cost: $150 - $200 for the course and exam.
  • Timeline: You can take an online course and exam in a few days. In-person classes are available through the Oklahoma Restaurant Association.
  • Renewal: Every 5 years.

• Food Handler Permit: While not a chef-level license, Oklahoma law requires all employees who handle food to have a food handler card. Many employers cover this cost, but it's good to have. It’s a basic online course. Cost: $10 - $15.

• Alcohol Service: If your role involves managing a bar or direct alcohol service, you'll need an Alcohol Server License. This is especially important for Head Cooks at pubs or restaurants with a heavy bar focus. The course is online through the Oklahoma Alcoholic Beverage Laws Enforcement (ABLE). Cost: ~$25.

• Business Licenses (If You Go Solo): If you dream of opening a food truck or small cafe in Moore, you'll need a business license from the City of Moore and potentially a sales tax permit from the Oklahoma Tax Commission.

Steps to Get Started:

1. Secure Your ServSafe Manager Certification. This is your golden ticket. Employers see it as proof of competence.
2. Apply for Jobs. Most employers will guide you through obtaining any additional permits (like a food handler card).
3. Check with the City of Moore. For any specific local permits (like for a mobile food unit), contact the Moore City Clerk's Office. They are very helpful and can provide a checklist.

Insider Tip: Having your ServSafe certification before you apply for jobs makes you a more attractive candidate. It shows you're serious and saves the employer the time and cost of training you. It's a small investment for a significant return.

Best Neighborhoods for Chef/Head Cooks

Where you live in Moore affects your commute, lifestyle, and rent. Moore is a city of distinct pockets, each with its own feel.

1. Central Moore (Downtown & Historic District):

   • Vibe: Quiet, older, charming. Close to local favorites like The Muffin Man and community events. Walkable to a few key spots.
   • Commute: Easy access to most of the city's restaurants. 10-15 minutes to the I-35 corridor.
   • Rent (1BR): $650 - $850/month. Older apartments and some small houses. Good value.
   • Best For: Chefs who value a community feel and don't mind a short, non-highway commute.

2. South I-35 Corridor / SW 19th Street:

   • Vibe: Commercial, bustling, and convenient. This is where most chain restaurants are located. It's the "hustle" part of town.
   • Commute: A 5-minute drive to work for most. Very car-centric.
   • Rent (1BR): $750 - $900/month. More modern apartment complexes with amenities like pools and gyms.
   • Best For: The chef who works at a major chain and wants zero commute. Prioritizes convenience over neighborhood charm.

3. East Moore (Near Moore High School):

   • Vibe: Established and residential. Family-oriented, with good schools and parks. Feels more suburban.
   • Commute: 10-20 minutes to most restaurants, depending on traffic.
   • Rent (1BR): $700 - $850/month. Mostly older apartment complexes and single-family home rentals.
   • Best For: Chefs with families or who want a quieter, more suburban lifestyle. Offers more space for the money.

4. West Moore / Near the I-44/I-35 Interchange:

   • Vibe: Growing, with new subdivisions and shopping centers. A mix of young professionals and families.
   • Commute: 10-15 minutes to the I-35 restaurant strip. Easy access to OKC for nightlife or events.
   • Rent (1BR): $800 - $1,000/month. Newer apartment complexes and some townhomes. Higher end for Moore.
   • Best For: The chef who wants a modern living space and values easy access to both Moore and Oklahoma City.

Insider Tip: Traffic on I-35 and SW 19th Street can get congested during rush hour and before football games (OU or local). If you can find a place in a neighborhood that lets you use side streets to avoid the main arteries, you'll save yourself significant stress.

The Long Game: Career Growth

In Moore, career growth is less about climbing a corporate ladder and more about deepening your skills and expanding your responsibilities within the local ecosystem.

Specialty Premiums:

• Catering & Banquet Management: Chefs who can execute off-site events for weddings at local venues (like the Moore Community Center) or corporate catering can command a premium. This is a growing area.
• Bakery/Pastry Skills: While not a separate license, having strong pastry skills is a huge plus. Few chefs specialize, so those who can create standout desserts or breads are highly valued.
• Large-Scale Institutional Cooking: Experience in school or hospital food service is a specific, transferable skill that offers stability and benefits, which is a "premium" in itself for many.

Advancement Paths:

1. Head Cook → Kitchen Manager: This is the most common path. It involves moving from line management to full financial responsibility (food cost, labor cost), scheduling, and staff development.
2. Kitchen Manager → General Manager: In many family-owned or franchise restaurants, the path to GM is clear. It requires mastering front-of-house operations, customer service, and business management, not just cooking.
3. Chef → Owner/Operator: The entrepreneurial path. Many successful Moore chefs start by running a kitchen for 5-7 years, then either buy into an existing restaurant or open a small concept (a food truck, a pop-up, a small cafe). The low cost of living makes saving for this goal more achievable.
4. Chef → Corporate/Culinary Director: This is less common in Moore but possible. Some chefs here become regional trainers or consultants for franchise chains, leveraging their experience in a high-volume market.

10-Year Outlook (5% Growth): The 5% growth indicates a need for replacement and slight expansion. The most significant growth will likely be in:

• Catering & Special Events: As the population grows, so does demand for weddings and corporate events.
• Health-Focused & Niche Concepts: There's room for more independent chefs to fill gaps—think specialized breakfast cafes, authentic ethnic cuisine, or health-conscious fast-casual.
• Food Service Management: The schools and hospitals will continue to need skilled managers to run their operations.

Insider Tip: The key to growth in Moore is reputation. In a community this size, word of mouth is everything. If you're known as the chef who can handle a 200-person banquet flawlessly or the one with a killer seasonal menu, you'll never be out of work. Network at the Moore Chamber of Commerce events.

The Verdict: Is Moore Right for You?

Moore isn't for everyone, but for the right chef, it's a fantastic place to build a stable, fulfilling career. Let's break it down.

Pros	Cons
Low Cost of Living: Your salary goes far. Affordable home ownership is a real possibility.	Limited Fine-Dining Scene: If your passion is avant-garde cuisine, Moore will feel restrictive.
Stable Job Market: Less volatility than larger cities. A 5% growth rate means steady demand.	Smaller Job Pool: With only 126 jobs, you may need to be flexible or commute to Norman/OKC.
Strong Community Feel: You're not a cog in a machine. Owners and managers often know you by name.	Car-Dependent: You'll need a reliable vehicle. Public transit is minimal.
Family-Friendly: Great schools, safe neighborhoods, and a slower pace of life.	Nightlife is Limited: The social scene is quiet. Most dining is family-oriented or chain-based.
Proximity to OKC & Norman: You can access bigger city amenities and