Creative & Education New Orleans, LA Pop. 383,997

Chef Salary in New Orleans, Louisiana

The median chef salary in New Orleans, LA is $55,390 per year, which is 2% below the national median and 7.7% above the Louisiana state average.

City Median
$55,390
vs State Avg
+$3,957
vs National
$-1,130
Cost of Living
98%

Chef Salary in New Orleans by Experience

In New Orleans, an entry-level chef earns around $34,300, while experienced professionals earn up to $86,240 per year. The local cost of living index is 98% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$34,300
$-700 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$54,880
$-1,120 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$86,240
$-1,760 vs national

Salary Percentiles in New Orleans, LA

Percentile New Orleans
10th Percentile $32,536
25th Percentile $41,356
Median (50th) $55,390
75th Percentile $73,500
90th Percentile $95,844

Chef Salary in Other Louisiana Cities

Baton Rouge, LA
$51,998
Pop. 227,470
Lafayette, LA
$49,738
Pop. 121,374
Lake Charles, LA
$48,607
Pop. 80,000
Shreveport, LA
$48,042
Pop. 187,593

How to Become a Chef in New Orleans

Education

Most chef positions require a high school diploma. New Orleans and the surrounding Louisiana 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 New Orleans may vary based on local industry and population growth.