Creative & Education Tuscaloosa, AL Pop. 101,129

Chef Salary in Tuscaloosa, Alabama

The median chef salary in Tuscaloosa, AL is $49,738 per year, which is 12% below the national median and 1.2% above the Alabama state average.

City Median
$49,738
vs State Avg
+$566
vs National
$-6,782
Cost of Living
88%

Chef Salary in Tuscaloosa by Experience

In Tuscaloosa, an entry-level chef earns around $30,800, while experienced professionals earn up to $77,440 per year. The local cost of living index is 88% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$30,800
$-4,200 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$49,280
$-6,720 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$77,440
$-10,560 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Tuscaloosa, AL

Percentile Tuscaloosa
10th Percentile $29,216
25th Percentile $37,136
Median (50th) $49,738
75th Percentile $66,000
90th Percentile $86,064

Chef Salary in Other Alabama Cities

Huntsville, AL
$51,998
Pop. 216,963
Birmingham, AL
$50,868
Pop. 197,575
Montgomery, AL
$48,607
Pop. 200,603
Mobile, AL
$48,042
Pop. 187,041

How to Become a Chef in Tuscaloosa

Education

Most chef positions require a high school diploma. Tuscaloosa and the surrounding Alabama area have institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Culinary ArtsMenu PlanningFood SafetyKitchen ManagementCost ControlCreativity

Job Outlook

Nationally, chef employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Tuscaloosa may vary based on local industry and population growth.