Chef Salary in Honolulu, Hawaii
The median chef salary in Honolulu, HI is $98,910 per year, which is 75.0% above the national median and 2.9% above the Hawaii state average.
Chef Pay in Honolulu: What to Expect (2026)
Honolulu offers a median chef salary of $98,910, which is $2,826 above the Hawaii state average of $96,084. Compared to the national median of $56,520, Honolulu pays above average for this role.
However, Honolulu's cost of living index is 175%, significantly above the national average. After adjusting for local costs, the $98,910 salary has an effective purchasing power of approximately $56,520. Housing, transportation, and food costs in Honolulu should be factored into any relocation or job-change decision.
The salary range for chefs in Honolulu spans from $58,100 at the 10th percentile to $171,150 at the 90th percentile — a $113,050 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $61,250, while senior chefs with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $154,000. With a population of 350,964, Honolulu is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Chef Salary in Honolulu by Experience
In Honolulu, an entry-level chef earns around $61,250, while experienced professionals earn up to $154,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 175% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Honolulu, HI
| Percentile | Honolulu |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $58,100 |
| 25th Percentile | $73,850 |
| Median (50th) | $98,910 |
| 75th Percentile | $131,250 |
| 90th Percentile | $171,150 |
Chef Salary in Other Hawaii Cities
How to Become a Chef in Honolulu
Education
Most chef positions require a high school diploma. Honolulu and the surrounding Hawaii 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 Honolulu may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chef Jobs in Honolulu
Browse open chef positions in Honolulu, HI: