Chef Salary in Fairbanks, Alaska
The median chef salary in Fairbanks, AK is $73,476 per year, which is 30.0% above the national median and 4.8% above the Alaska state average.
Chef Pay in Fairbanks: What to Expect (2026)
Fairbanks offers a median chef salary of $73,476, which is $3,391 above the Alaska state average of $70,085. Compared to the national median of $56,520, Fairbanks pays above average for this role.
However, Fairbanks's cost of living index is 130%, significantly above the national average. After adjusting for local costs, the $73,476 salary has an effective purchasing power of approximately $56,520. Housing, transportation, and food costs in Fairbanks should be factored into any relocation or job-change decision.
The salary range for chefs in Fairbanks spans from $43,160 at the 10th percentile to $127,140 at the 90th percentile — a $83,980 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $45,500, while senior chefs with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $114,400. Fairbanks is a smaller market (pop. 32,325), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.
Chef Salary in Fairbanks by Experience
In Fairbanks, an entry-level chef earns around $45,500, while experienced professionals earn up to $114,400 per year. The local cost of living index is 130% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Fairbanks, AK
| Percentile | Fairbanks |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $43,160 |
| 25th Percentile | $54,860 |
| Median (50th) | $73,476 |
| 75th Percentile | $97,500 |
| 90th Percentile | $127,140 |
Chef Salary in Other Alaska Cities
How to Become a Chef in Fairbanks
Education
Most chef positions require a high school diploma. Fairbanks and the surrounding Alaska 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 Fairbanks may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chef Jobs in Fairbanks
Browse open chef positions in Fairbanks, AK: