Chef Salary in 2026
Official government data · Updated April 2026
The median annual salary for a Chef is $60,990 per year based on the most recent national wage survey data. Employment is projected to grow 7.1% over the 2024–2034 decade.
How Much Do Chefs Make?
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Median Annual Salary | $60,990 |
| 10-Year Job Growth | 7.1% |
| Total Employment | 182,320 |
| Typical Education | High school diploma or equivalent |
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Which Skills Increase Chef Pay?
Chefs with these high-demand tools and technologies typically command higher salaries.
Full skills breakdown →Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the average salary for a Chef?
- The median annual salary for a Chef is $60,990 per year, based on the most recent national wage survey data.
- Is Chef a growing career?
- Employment for Chef roles is projected to grow 7.1% over the 2024–2034 decade. Total employment is currently 182,320 workers nationally.
- What skills increase Chef pay?
- Chefs who demonstrate skills like typically command higher salaries. Certifications and advanced tools expertise can further boost compensation.
Salary and employment figures from official U.S. government records. Actual compensation varies by location, experience, and employer.