Chef Salary in Kansas
The median chef salary in Kansas is $49,172 per year, which is 13% below the national median of $56,520.
Chef Salary Overview in Kansas (2026)
Kansas ranks #45 out of 50 states for chef compensation. Chef salaries in Kansas are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $49,172 per year, chefs in Kansas earn $7,348 less than the national median of $56,520.
A key advantage of working in Kansas is its below-average cost of living (87% of the national index). This means the $49,172 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $56,520 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Kansas is significant: chefs at the 10th percentile earn $28,884, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $85,086 — a $56,202 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Kansas for this role is Overland Park, where the median reaches $54,259.
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 Kansas by Experience
In Kansas, an entry-level chef earns around $30,450, while experienced professionals earn up to $76,560 per year. The cost of living index in Kansas is 87% of the national average.
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Earning $49,172? 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 Kansas
| Percentile | KS Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $28,884 |
| 25th Percentile | $36,714 |
| Median (50th) | $49,172 |
| 75th Percentile | $65,250 |
| 90th Percentile | $85,086 |
Chef Salary by City in Kansas
The largest employment areas for chefs in Kansas include Wichita, Overland Park, Kansas City, and Topeka. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Chef in Kansas
Education
Most chef positions require a high school diploma. Kansas has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Kansas
Nationally, chef employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Kansas's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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