Chef Salary in Montgomery, Alabama
The median chef salary in Montgomery, AL is $48,607 per year, which is 14% below the national median and 1.1% below the Alabama state average.
Chef Pay in Montgomery: What to Expect (2026)
Montgomery offers a median chef salary of $48,607, which is $565 below the Alabama state average of $49,172. Compared to the national median of $56,520, Montgomery pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Montgomery's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 86% of the national average. This means the $48,607 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $56,520 in an average-cost city. This makes Montgomery an attractive option for chefs seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for chefs in Montgomery spans from $28,552 at the 10th percentile to $84,108 at the 90th percentile — a $55,556 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $30,100, while senior chefs with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $75,680. With a population of 200,603, Montgomery is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Chef Salary in Montgomery by Experience
In Montgomery, an entry-level chef earns around $30,100, while experienced professionals earn up to $75,680 per year. The local cost of living index is 86% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Montgomery, AL
| Percentile | Montgomery |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $28,552 |
| 25th Percentile | $36,292 |
| Median (50th) | $48,607 |
| 75th Percentile | $64,500 |
| 90th Percentile | $84,108 |
Chef Salary in Other Alabama Cities
How to Become a Chef in Montgomery
Education
Most chef positions require a high school diploma. Montgomery 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 Montgomery may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chef Jobs in Montgomery
Browse open chef positions in Montgomery, AL: