Chef Salary in Huntsville, Alabama
The median chef salary in Huntsville, AL is $51,998 per year, which is 8% below the national median and 5.7% above the Alabama state average.
Chef Pay in Huntsville: What to Expect (2026)
Huntsville offers a median chef salary of $51,998, which is $2,826 above the Alabama state average of $49,172. Compared to the national median of $56,520, Huntsville pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Huntsville's cost of living is 92% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for chefs in Huntsville spans from $30,544 at the 10th percentile to $89,976 at the 90th percentile — a $59,432 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $32,200, while senior chefs with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $80,960. With a population of 216,963, Huntsville is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Chef Salary in Huntsville by Experience
In Huntsville, an entry-level chef earns around $32,200, while experienced professionals earn up to $80,960 per year. The local cost of living index is 92% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Huntsville, AL
| Percentile | Huntsville |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $30,544 |
| 25th Percentile | $38,824 |
| Median (50th) | $51,998 |
| 75th Percentile | $69,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $89,976 |
Chef Salary in Other Alabama Cities
How to Become a Chef in Huntsville
Education
Most chef positions require a high school diploma. Huntsville and the surrounding Alabama area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, chef employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Huntsville may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chef Jobs in Huntsville
Browse open chef positions in Huntsville, AL: