The Average Salary of a Head Chef
The process of becoming a head chef or executive chef can be a long one, as most chefs start their careers in lower positions in the kitchen no matter what degree or certificate they hold. For many, however, becoming a head chef and running a kitchen is well worth the resulting salary.
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Average Salary
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According to Global Gourmet, average annual earnings of an executive or head chef ranged from $55,976 to $85,328 in May 2008. The wide range of this salary window reflects the fact that some restaurants and industries pay their head chefs more than others.
Higher-Paying Industries
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Several industries employ head chefs with various salaries. Fine dining and five-star restaurants, along with restaurants in hotels and resorts, tend to pay their head chefs more, according to Global Gourmet. Individuals who hire chefs for private functions also tend to pay a higher-than-average salary. The Bureau of Labor Statistics places a head chef's salary in the recreation industry at $53,120 annually in May 2009.
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Lower-Paying Industries
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Casual or chain restaurants, fast food restaurants, cruise ships and cafeterias all employ head chefs and head or managing cooks. These types of establishments tend to pay on the lower end of the pay scale, according to Global Gourmet. The Bureau of Labor Statistics states the average salary of a head cook in the food preparation industry was $33,850 in May 2009.
Education
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While holding a degree from a culinary institute is typically not required in order to become a head chef, it can mean a boost in salary, according to Global Gourmet. Most culinary schools offer either two- or four-year programs, as well as apprenticeships that offer students the chance to gain experience under the guidance of an established head chef. According to PayScale, an executive chef with a culinary degree earned between $43,239 and $59,521 annually, as of November 2010.
Area
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The employer's location also plays a role when it comes to head chef salaries. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' data for May 2009, the highest-paying states when it comes to average chef salaries were New Jersey ($59,120) and Rhode Island ($56,120). New York City ($80,940) was the highest-paying metropolitan area.
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