Chef Salary in South Portland, Maine
The median chef salary in South Portland, ME is $59,346 per year, which is 5.0% above the national median and 7.1% above the Maine state average.
Chef Pay in South Portland: What to Expect (2026)
South Portland offers a median chef salary of $59,346, which is $3,956 above the Maine state average of $55,390. Compared to the national median of $56,520, South Portland pays above average for this role.
South Portland's cost of living is 105% 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 South Portland spans from $34,860 at the 10th percentile to $102,690 at the 90th percentile — a $67,830 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $36,750, while senior chefs with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $92,400. South Portland is a smaller market (pop. 25,665), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.
Chef Salary in South Portland by Experience
In South Portland, an entry-level chef earns around $36,750, while experienced professionals earn up to $92,400 per year. The local cost of living index is 105% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in South Portland, ME
| Percentile | South Portland |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $34,860 |
| 25th Percentile | $44,310 |
| Median (50th) | $59,346 |
| 75th Percentile | $78,750 |
| 90th Percentile | $102,690 |
Chef Salary in Other Maine Cities
How to Become a Chef in South Portland
Education
Most chef positions require a high school diploma. South Portland and the surrounding Maine 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 South Portland may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chef Jobs in South Portland
Browse open chef positions in South Portland, ME: