Creative & Education Boston, MA Pop. 675,647

Chef Salary in Boston, Massachusetts

The median chef salary in Boston, MA is $85,910 per year, which is 52.0% above the national median and 12.6% above the Massachusetts state average.

City Median
$85,910
vs State Avg
+$9,608
vs National
+$29,390
Cost of Living
152%

Chef Salary in Boston by Experience

In Boston, an entry-level chef earns around $53,200, while experienced professionals earn up to $133,760 per year. The local cost of living index is 152% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$53,200
+$18,200 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$85,120
+$29,120 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$133,760
+$45,760 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Boston, MA

Percentile Boston
10th Percentile $50,464
25th Percentile $64,144
Median (50th) $85,910
75th Percentile $114,000
90th Percentile $148,656

Chef Salary in Other Massachusetts Cities

Cambridge, MA
$90,432
Pop. 118,403
Worcester, MA
$62,172
Pop. 206,518
Lowell, MA
$59,346
Pop. 115,554
Springfield, MA
$55,390
Pop. 155,929

How to Become a Chef in Boston

Education

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