Chef & head cook pay
What chefs earn — and keep — in 2026
A culinary career rewards skill and reputation rather than a four-year degree. The BLS puts the median chef and head cook at $60,990 (May 2024). Sous and pastry chefs sit below the median; executive and corporate chefs, plus those running their own kitchens, earn well above it — the highest 10% exceed $94,000.
Where a chef's paycheck goes
On the $60,990 median, a single chef pays federal income tax mostly in the 12%–22% brackets after the standard deduction, plus 6.2% Social Security and 1.45% Medicare. Long, irregular hours are common in kitchens, but salaried chefs are usually exempt from overtime — so build any expected bonus into your gross figure.
The highest-paying states for chefs
Chefs earn the most in states with strong tourism and fine-dining markets — including California, New York, Florida, Washington and Illinois. A high wage in a no-income-tax state like Washington, Florida or Texas keeps more of your pay.
Compare the kitchen with other careers
See how chef pay compares with a bartender or cashier, or check your exact net in Texas.
Questions
Chef Salary Calculator FAQ
How much does a chef make in 2026?
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a median annual wage of $60,990 for chefs and head cooks (May 2024). Line and sous chefs earn less, while executive chefs at upscale hotels, restaurants and resorts earn substantially more — the top 10% exceed $94,000.
What is a chef's take-home pay on $60,990?
A single chef earning the $60,990 median takes home roughly $49,000 to $50,000 a year after federal income tax and FICA in a no-income-tax state, less where state tax applies. Bonuses and service pay are taxable but raise both gross and net.
Do sous chefs and executive chefs earn the same?
No. Sous, pastry and line cooks earn below the median, while executive and corporate chefs — especially at hotels and fine-dining venues — earn well above it. Enter your actual salary for your role and establishment.
Which states pay chefs the most?
Chefs earn the highest wages in tourism- and dining-heavy states including California, New York, Florida, Washington and Illinois. Pair a high wage with a no-income-tax state like Florida, Washington or Texas and your take-home climbs further.
- Sources: BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook — Chefs and Head Cooks (median $60,990, May 2024) · IRS Rev. Proc. 2025-32 · SSA 2026 wage base · State departments of revenue.
- 🔄 Last updated June 9, 2026 · Tax year 2026
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