Chef Salary in Grand Rapids, Michigan
The median chef salary in Grand Rapids, MI is $50,868 per year, which is 10% below the national median and 0.0% above the Michigan state average.
Chef Pay in Grand Rapids: What to Expect (2026)
Grand Rapids offers a median chef salary of $50,868, which is $0 above the Michigan state average of $50,868. Compared to the national median of $56,520, Grand Rapids pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Grand Rapids's cost of living is 90% 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 Grand Rapids spans from $29,880 at the 10th percentile to $88,020 at the 90th percentile — a $58,140 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $31,500, while senior chefs with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $79,200. With a population of 198,917, Grand Rapids is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Chef Salary in Grand Rapids by Experience
In Grand Rapids, an entry-level chef earns around $31,500, while experienced professionals earn up to $79,200 per year. The local cost of living index is 90% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Grand Rapids, MI
| Percentile | Grand Rapids |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $29,880 |
| 25th Percentile | $37,980 |
| Median (50th) | $50,868 |
| 75th Percentile | $67,500 |
| 90th Percentile | $88,020 |
Chef Salary in Other Michigan Cities
How to Become a Chef in Grand Rapids
Education
Most chef positions require a high school diploma. Grand Rapids and the surrounding Michigan 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 Grand Rapids may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chef Jobs in Grand Rapids
Browse open chef positions in Grand Rapids, MI: