Chef Salary in Atlanta, Georgia
The median chef salary in Atlanta, GA is $57,650 per year, which is 2.0% above the national median and 9.7% above the Georgia state average.
Chef Pay in Atlanta: What to Expect (2026)
Atlanta offers a median chef salary of $57,650, which is $5,086 above the Georgia state average of $52,564. Compared to the national median of $56,520, Atlanta pays above average for this role.
Atlanta's cost of living is 102% 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 Atlanta spans from $33,864 at the 10th percentile to $99,756 at the 90th percentile — a $65,892 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $35,700, while senior chefs with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $89,760. With a population of 498,715, Atlanta is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Chef Salary in Atlanta by Experience
In Atlanta, an entry-level chef earns around $35,700, while experienced professionals earn up to $89,760 per year. The local cost of living index is 102% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Atlanta, GA
| Percentile | Atlanta |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $33,864 |
| 25th Percentile | $43,044 |
| Median (50th) | $57,650 |
| 75th Percentile | $76,500 |
| 90th Percentile | $99,756 |
Chef Salary in Other Georgia Cities
How to Become a Chef in Atlanta
Education
Most chef positions require a high school diploma. Atlanta 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 Atlanta may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chef Jobs in Atlanta
Browse open chef positions in Atlanta, GA: