Chef Salary in 2026
Source: BLS OES May 2024 · Updated April 2026
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OES May 2024), the median annual salary for a Chef is $60,990 per year. The BLS projects 7.1% employment growth for this occupation 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 |
| SOC Code | 35-1011 |
Which Skills Increase Chef Pay?
Chefs with these high-demand tools and technologies typically command higher salaries.
Microsoft ExcelMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft WordFacebookGoogle SheetsMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft PowerPoint
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 Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Outlook, Microsoft Word, Facebook typically command higher salaries. Certifications and advanced tools expertise can further boost compensation.
Salary and employment figures: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OES May 2024) and Employment Projections 2024–2034. Actual compensation varies by location, experience, and employer.