Chef Salary in Topeka, Kansas
The median chef salary in Topeka, KS is $46,912 per year, which is 17% below the national median and 4.6% below the Kansas state average.
Chef Pay in Topeka: What to Expect (2026)
Topeka offers a median chef salary of $46,912, which is $2,260 below the Kansas state average of $49,172. Compared to the national median of $56,520, Topeka pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Topeka's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 83% of the national average. This means the $46,912 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $56,520 in an average-cost city. This makes Topeka an attractive option for chefs seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for chefs in Topeka spans from $27,556 at the 10th percentile to $81,174 at the 90th percentile — a $53,618 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $29,050, while senior chefs with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $73,040. With a population of 127,473, Topeka is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Chef Salary in Topeka by Experience
In Topeka, an entry-level chef earns around $29,050, while experienced professionals earn up to $73,040 per year. The local cost of living index is 83% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Topeka, KS
| Percentile | Topeka |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $27,556 |
| 25th Percentile | $35,026 |
| Median (50th) | $46,912 |
| 75th Percentile | $62,250 |
| 90th Percentile | $81,174 |
Chef Salary in Other Kansas Cities
How to Become a Chef in Topeka
Education
Most chef positions require a high school diploma. Topeka and the surrounding Kansas 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 Topeka may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chef Jobs in Topeka
Browse open chef positions in Topeka, KS: