Chef Salary in Jackson, Mississippi
The median chef salary in Jackson, MS is $48,042 per year, which is 15% below the national median and 2.4% above the Mississippi state average.
Chef Pay in Jackson: What to Expect (2026)
Jackson offers a median chef salary of $48,042, which is $1,130 above the Mississippi state average of $46,912. Compared to the national median of $56,520, Jackson pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Jackson's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 85% of the national average. This means the $48,042 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $56,520 in an average-cost city. This makes Jackson an attractive option for chefs seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for chefs in Jackson spans from $28,220 at the 10th percentile to $83,130 at the 90th percentile — a $54,910 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $29,750, while senior chefs with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $74,800. With a population of 153,701, Jackson is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Chef Salary in Jackson by Experience
In Jackson, an entry-level chef earns around $29,750, while experienced professionals earn up to $74,800 per year. The local cost of living index is 85% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Jackson, MS
| Percentile | Jackson |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $28,220 |
| 25th Percentile | $35,870 |
| Median (50th) | $48,042 |
| 75th Percentile | $63,750 |
| 90th Percentile | $83,130 |
Chef Salary in Other Mississippi Cities
How to Become a Chef in Jackson
Education
Most chef positions require a high school diploma. Jackson and the surrounding Mississippi 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 Jackson may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chef Jobs in Jackson
Browse open chef positions in Jackson, MS: