Chef Salary in Boise, Idaho
The median chef salary in Boise, ID is $56,520 per year, which is 0.0% above the national median and 6.4% above the Idaho state average.
Chef Pay in Boise: What to Expect (2026)
Boise offers a median chef salary of $56,520, which is $3,391 above the Idaho state average of $53,129. Compared to the national median of $56,520, Boise pays above average for this role.
Boise'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 Boise 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 235,684, Boise is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Chef Salary in Boise by Experience
In Boise, 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 Boise, ID
| Percentile | Boise |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $33,200 |
| 25th Percentile | $42,200 |
| Median (50th) | $56,520 |
| 75th Percentile | $75,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $97,800 |
Chef Salary in Other Idaho Cities
How to Become a Chef in Boise
Education
Most chef positions require a high school diploma. Boise and the surrounding Idaho 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 Boise may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chef Jobs in Boise
Browse open chef positions in Boise, ID: