Chef Salary in Tampa, Florida
The median chef salary in Tampa, FL is $56,520 per year, which is 0.0% above the national median and 2.0% above the Florida state average.
Chef Pay in Tampa: What to Expect (2026)
Tampa offers a median chef salary of $56,520, which is $1,130 above the Florida state average of $55,390. Compared to the national median of $56,520, Tampa pays above average for this role.
Tampa'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 Tampa 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. With a population of 384,959, Tampa is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Chef Salary in Tampa by Experience
In Tampa, 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 Tampa, FL
| Percentile | Tampa |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $33,200 |
| 25th Percentile | $42,200 |
| Median (50th) | $56,520 |
| 75th Percentile | $75,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $97,800 |
Chef Salary in Other Florida Cities
How to Become a Chef in Tampa
Education
Most chef positions require a high school diploma. Tampa and the surrounding Florida 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 Tampa may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chef Jobs in Tampa
Browse open chef positions in Tampa, FL: