Chef Salary in Owensboro, Kentucky
The median chef salary in Owensboro, KY is $46,346 per year, which is 18% below the national median and 5.7% below the Kentucky state average.
Chef Pay in Owensboro: What to Expect (2026)
Owensboro offers a median chef salary of $46,346, which is $2,826 below the Kentucky state average of $49,172. Compared to the national median of $56,520, Owensboro pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Owensboro's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 82% of the national average. This means the $46,346 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $56,520 in an average-cost city. This makes Owensboro an attractive option for chefs seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for chefs in Owensboro spans from $27,224 at the 10th percentile to $80,196 at the 90th percentile — a $52,972 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $28,700, while senior chefs with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $72,160. Owensboro is a smaller market (pop. 60,183), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.
Chef Salary in Owensboro by Experience
In Owensboro, an entry-level chef earns around $28,700, while experienced professionals earn up to $72,160 per year. The local cost of living index is 82% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Owensboro, KY
| Percentile | Owensboro |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $27,224 |
| 25th Percentile | $34,604 |
| Median (50th) | $46,346 |
| 75th Percentile | $61,500 |
| 90th Percentile | $80,196 |
Chef Salary in Other Kentucky Cities
How to Become a Chef in Owensboro
Education
Most chef positions require a high school diploma. Owensboro 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 Owensboro may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chef Jobs in Owensboro
Browse open chef positions in Owensboro, KY: