Chef Salary in Athens, Georgia
The median chef salary in Athens, GA is $50,868 per year, which is 10% below the national median and 3.2% below the Georgia state average.
Chef Pay in Athens: What to Expect (2026)
Athens offers a median chef salary of $50,868, which is $1,696 below the Georgia state average of $52,564. Compared to the national median of $56,520, Athens pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Athens's cost of living is 90% 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 Athens spans from $29,880 at the 10th percentile to $88,020 at the 90th percentile — a $58,140 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $31,500, while senior chefs with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $79,200. With a population of 127,064, Athens is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Chef Salary in Athens by Experience
In Athens, an entry-level chef earns around $31,500, while experienced professionals earn up to $79,200 per year. The local cost of living index is 90% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Athens, GA
| Percentile | Athens |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $29,880 |
| 25th Percentile | $37,980 |
| Median (50th) | $50,868 |
| 75th Percentile | $67,500 |
| 90th Percentile | $88,020 |
Chef Salary in Other Georgia Cities
How to Become a Chef in Athens
Education
Most chef positions require a high school diploma. Athens and the surrounding Georgia 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 Athens may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chef Jobs in Athens
Browse open chef positions in Athens, GA: