Chef Salary in Worcester, Massachusetts
The median chef salary in Worcester, MA is $62,172 per year, which is 10.0% above the national median and 18.5% below the Massachusetts state average.
Chef Pay in Worcester: What to Expect (2026)
Worcester offers a median chef salary of $62,172, which is $14,130 below the Massachusetts state average of $76,302. Compared to the national median of $56,520, Worcester pays above average for this role.
Worcester's cost of living is 110% 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 Worcester spans from $36,520 at the 10th percentile to $107,580 at the 90th percentile — a $71,060 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $38,500, while senior chefs with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $96,800. With a population of 206,518, Worcester is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Chef Salary in Worcester by Experience
In Worcester, an entry-level chef earns around $38,500, while experienced professionals earn up to $96,800 per year. The local cost of living index is 110% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Worcester, MA
| Percentile | Worcester |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $36,520 |
| 25th Percentile | $46,420 |
| Median (50th) | $62,172 |
| 75th Percentile | $82,500 |
| 90th Percentile | $107,580 |
Chef Salary in Other Massachusetts Cities
How to Become a Chef in Worcester
Education
Most chef positions require a high school diploma. Worcester and the surrounding Massachusetts 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 Worcester may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chef Jobs in Worcester
Browse open chef positions in Worcester, MA: