Chef Salary in Rockford, Illinois
The median chef salary in Rockford, IL is $46,346 per year, which is 18% below the national median and 13.7% below the Illinois state average.
Chef Pay in Rockford: What to Expect (2026)
Rockford offers a median chef salary of $46,346, which is $7,348 below the Illinois state average of $53,694. Compared to the national median of $56,520, Rockford pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Rockford's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 82% of the national average. This means the $46,346 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $56,520 in an average-cost city. This makes Rockford an attractive option for chefs seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for chefs in Rockford spans from $27,224 at the 10th percentile to $80,196 at the 90th percentile — a $52,972 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $28,700, while senior chefs with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $72,160. With a population of 148,655, Rockford is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Chef Salary in Rockford by Experience
In Rockford, an entry-level chef earns around $28,700, while experienced professionals earn up to $72,160 per year. The local cost of living index is 82% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Rockford, IL
| Percentile | Rockford |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $27,224 |
| 25th Percentile | $34,604 |
| Median (50th) | $46,346 |
| 75th Percentile | $61,500 |
| 90th Percentile | $80,196 |
Chef Salary in Other Illinois Cities
How to Become a Chef in Rockford
Education
Most chef positions require a high school diploma. Rockford and the surrounding Illinois 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 Rockford may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chef Jobs in Rockford
Browse open chef positions in Rockford, IL: