Chef Salary in Waterbury, Connecticut
The median chef salary in Waterbury, CT is $55,390 per year, which is 2% below the national median and 12.5% below the Connecticut state average.
Chef Pay in Waterbury: What to Expect (2026)
Waterbury offers a median chef salary of $55,390, which is $7,912 below the Connecticut state average of $63,302. Compared to the national median of $56,520, Waterbury pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Waterbury's cost of living is 98% 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 Waterbury spans from $32,536 at the 10th percentile to $95,844 at the 90th percentile — a $63,308 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $34,300, while senior chefs with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $86,240. With a population of 114,403, Waterbury is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Chef Salary in Waterbury by Experience
In Waterbury, an entry-level chef earns around $34,300, while experienced professionals earn up to $86,240 per year. The local cost of living index is 98% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Waterbury, CT
| Percentile | Waterbury |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $32,536 |
| 25th Percentile | $41,356 |
| Median (50th) | $55,390 |
| 75th Percentile | $73,500 |
| 90th Percentile | $95,844 |
Chef Salary in Other Connecticut Cities
How to Become a Chef in Waterbury
Education
Most chef positions require a high school diploma. Waterbury and the surrounding Connecticut 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 Waterbury may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chef Jobs in Waterbury
Browse open chef positions in Waterbury, CT: