Creative & Education Lexington, KY
Pop. 322,570
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.
City Median
$52,564
vs State Avg
+$3,392
vs National
$-3,956
Cost of Living
93%
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.
Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$32,550
$-2,450 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$52,080
$-3,920 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$81,840
$-6,160 vs national
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
Culinary ArtsMenu PlanningFood SafetyKitchen ManagementCost ControlCreativity
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.