Chef Salary in Aurora, Colorado
The median chef salary in Aurora, CO is $59,346 per year, which is 5.0% above the national median and 0.0% above the Colorado state average.
Chef Pay in Aurora: What to Expect (2026)
Aurora offers a median chef salary of $59,346, which is $0 above the Colorado state average of $59,346. Compared to the national median of $56,520, Aurora pays above average for this role.
Aurora's cost of living is 105% 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 Aurora spans from $34,860 at the 10th percentile to $102,690 at the 90th percentile — a $67,830 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $36,750, while senior chefs with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $92,400. With a population of 386,261, Aurora is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Chef Salary in Aurora by Experience
In Aurora, an entry-level chef earns around $36,750, while experienced professionals earn up to $92,400 per year. The local cost of living index is 105% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Aurora, CO
| Percentile | Aurora |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $34,860 |
| 25th Percentile | $44,310 |
| Median (50th) | $59,346 |
| 75th Percentile | $78,750 |
| 90th Percentile | $102,690 |
Chef Salary in Other Colorado Cities
How to Become a Chef in Aurora
Education
Most chef positions require a high school diploma. Aurora and the surrounding Colorado 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 Aurora may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chef Jobs in Aurora
Browse open chef positions in Aurora, CO: