Chef Salary in Mobile, Alabama
The median chef salary in Mobile, AL is $48,042 per year, which is 15% below the national median and 2.3% below the Alabama state average.
Chef Pay in Mobile: What to Expect (2026)
Mobile offers a median chef salary of $48,042, which is $1,130 below the Alabama state average of $49,172. Compared to the national median of $56,520, Mobile pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Mobile's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 85% of the national average. This means the $48,042 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $56,520 in an average-cost city. This makes Mobile an attractive option for chefs seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for chefs in Mobile spans from $28,220 at the 10th percentile to $83,130 at the 90th percentile — a $54,910 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $29,750, while senior chefs with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $74,800. With a population of 187,041, Mobile is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Chef Salary in Mobile by Experience
In Mobile, an entry-level chef earns around $29,750, while experienced professionals earn up to $74,800 per year. The local cost of living index is 85% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Mobile, AL
| Percentile | Mobile |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $28,220 |
| 25th Percentile | $35,870 |
| Median (50th) | $48,042 |
| 75th Percentile | $63,750 |
| 90th Percentile | $83,130 |
Chef Salary in Other Alabama Cities
How to Become a Chef in Mobile
Education
Most chef positions require a high school diploma. Mobile 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 Mobile may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chef Jobs in Mobile
Browse open chef positions in Mobile, AL: