Creative & Education Chicago, IL Pop. 2,693,976

Chef Salary in Chicago, Illinois

The median chef salary in Chicago, IL is $60,476 per year, which is 7.0% above the national median and 12.6% above the Illinois state average.

City Median
$60,476
vs State Avg
+$6,782
vs National
+$3,956
Cost of Living
107%

Chef Salary in Chicago by Experience

In Chicago, an entry-level chef earns around $37,450, while experienced professionals earn up to $94,160 per year. The local cost of living index is 107% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$37,450
+$2,450 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$59,920
+$3,920 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$94,160
+$6,160 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Chicago, IL

Percentile Chicago
10th Percentile $35,524
25th Percentile $45,154
Median (50th) $60,476
75th Percentile $80,250
90th Percentile $104,646

Chef Salary in Other Illinois Cities

Naperville, IL
$61,042
Pop. 149,540
Aurora, IL
$53,694
Pop. 197,757
Springfield, IL
$48,042
Pop. 114,394
Rockford, IL
$46,346
Pop. 148,655

How to Become a Chef in Chicago

Education

Most chef positions require a high school diploma. Chicago and the surrounding Illinois area have institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Culinary ArtsMenu PlanningFood SafetyKitchen ManagementCost ControlCreativity

Job Outlook

Nationally, chef employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Chicago may vary based on local industry and population growth.