Chef Salary in Lexington, Kentucky
The median chef salary in Lexington, KY is $52,564 per year, which is 7% below the national median and 6.9% above the Kentucky state average.
Chef Pay in Lexington: What to Expect (2026)
Lexington offers a median chef salary of $52,564, which is $3,392 above the Kentucky state average of $49,172. Compared to the national median of $56,520, Lexington pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Lexington's cost of living is 93% 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 Lexington spans from $30,876 at the 10th percentile to $90,954 at the 90th percentile — a $60,078 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $32,550, while senior chefs with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $81,840. With a population of 322,570, Lexington is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Chef Salary in Lexington by Experience
In Lexington, an entry-level chef earns around $32,550, while experienced professionals earn up to $81,840 per year. The local cost of living index is 93% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Lexington, KY
| Percentile | Lexington |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $30,876 |
| 25th Percentile | $39,246 |
| Median (50th) | $52,564 |
| 75th Percentile | $69,750 |
| 90th Percentile | $90,954 |
Chef Salary in Other Kentucky Cities
How to Become a Chef in Lexington
Education
Most chef positions require a high school diploma. Lexington and the surrounding Kentucky 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 Lexington may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chef Jobs in Lexington
Browse open chef positions in Lexington, KY: