Chef Salary in Phoenix, Arizona
The median chef salary in Phoenix, AZ is $56,520 per year, which is 0.0% above the national median and 3.1% above the Arizona state average.
Chef Pay in Phoenix: What to Expect (2026)
Phoenix offers a median chef salary of $56,520, which is $1,696 above the Arizona state average of $54,824. Compared to the national median of $56,520, Phoenix pays above average for this role.
Phoenix's cost of living is 100% 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 Phoenix spans from $33,200 at the 10th percentile to $97,800 at the 90th percentile — a $64,600 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $35,000, while senior chefs with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $88,000. As a major metro area with a population of 1,608,139, Phoenix typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.
Chef Salary in Phoenix by Experience
In Phoenix, an entry-level chef earns around $35,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $88,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 100% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Phoenix, AZ
| Percentile | Phoenix |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $33,200 |
| 25th Percentile | $42,200 |
| Median (50th) | $56,520 |
| 75th Percentile | $75,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $97,800 |
Chef Salary in Other Arizona Cities
How to Become a Chef in Phoenix
Education
Most chef positions require a high school diploma. Phoenix and the surrounding Arizona 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 Phoenix may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chef Jobs in Phoenix
Browse open chef positions in Phoenix, AZ: