Chef Salary in Illinois
The median chef salary in Illinois is $53,694 per year, which is 5% below the national median of $56,520.
Chef Salary Overview in Illinois (2026)
Illinois ranks #24 out of 50 states for chef compensation. Illinois falls in the middle of the pack for chef pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $53,694 per year, chefs in Illinois earn $2,826 less than the national median of $56,520.
Illinois's cost of living is near the national average at 95%, meaning chef salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Illinois is significant: chefs at the 10th percentile earn $31,540, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $92,910 — a $61,370 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Illinois for this role is Naperville, where the median reaches $61,042.
Nationally, chef employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for chefs across the country.
Chef Salary in Illinois by Experience
In Illinois, an entry-level chef earns around $33,250, while experienced professionals earn up to $83,600 per year. The cost of living index in Illinois is 95% of the national average.
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Earning $53,694? You may qualify for student loan refinancing rates as low as 4.49% — potentially saving $14,000+ over the life of your loan.
Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Illinois
| Percentile | IL Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $31,540 |
| 25th Percentile | $40,090 |
| Median (50th) | $53,694 |
| 75th Percentile | $71,250 |
| 90th Percentile | $92,910 |
Chef Salary by City in Illinois
The largest employment areas for chefs in Illinois include Chicago, Aurora, Naperville, and Rockford. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Chef in Illinois
Education
Most chef positions require a high school diploma. Illinois has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Illinois
Nationally, chef employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Illinois's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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