Chef Salary in Iowa City, Iowa
The median chef salary in Iowa City, IA is $53,694 per year, which is 5% below the national median and 6.7% above the Iowa state average.
Chef Pay in Iowa City: What to Expect (2026)
Iowa City offers a median chef salary of $53,694, which is $3,391 above the Iowa state average of $50,303. Compared to the national median of $56,520, Iowa City pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Iowa City's cost of living is 95% 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 Iowa City spans from $31,540 at the 10th percentile to $92,910 at the 90th percentile — a $61,370 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $33,250, while senior chefs with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $83,600. Iowa City is a smaller market (pop. 74,828), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.
Chef Salary in Iowa City by Experience
In Iowa City, an entry-level chef earns around $33,250, while experienced professionals earn up to $83,600 per year. The local cost of living index is 95% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Iowa City, IA
| Percentile | Iowa City |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $31,540 |
| 25th Percentile | $40,090 |
| Median (50th) | $53,694 |
| 75th Percentile | $71,250 |
| 90th Percentile | $92,910 |
Chef Salary in Other Iowa Cities
How to Become a Chef in Iowa City
Education
Most chef positions require a high school diploma. Iowa City and the surrounding Iowa 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 Iowa City may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chef Jobs in Iowa City
Browse open chef positions in Iowa City, IA: