Chef Salary in Meridian, Idaho
The median chef salary in Meridian, ID is $55,390 per year, which is 2% below the national median and 4.3% above the Idaho state average.
Chef Pay in Meridian: What to Expect (2026)
Meridian offers a median chef salary of $55,390, which is $2,261 above the Idaho state average of $53,129. Compared to the national median of $56,520, Meridian pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Meridian's cost of living is 98% 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 Meridian spans from $32,536 at the 10th percentile to $95,844 at the 90th percentile — a $63,308 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $34,300, while senior chefs with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $86,240. With a population of 117,635, Meridian is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Chef Salary in Meridian by Experience
In Meridian, an entry-level chef earns around $34,300, while experienced professionals earn up to $86,240 per year. The local cost of living index is 98% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Meridian, ID
| Percentile | Meridian |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $32,536 |
| 25th Percentile | $41,356 |
| Median (50th) | $55,390 |
| 75th Percentile | $73,500 |
| 90th Percentile | $95,844 |
Chef Salary in Other Idaho Cities
How to Become a Chef in Meridian
Education
Most chef positions require a high school diploma. Meridian 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 Meridian may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chef Jobs in Meridian
Browse open chef positions in Meridian, ID: