Creative & Education Columbia, MO Pop. 126,254

Chef Salary in Columbia, Missouri

The median chef salary in Columbia, MO is $49,738 per year, which is 12% below the national median and 0.0% above the Missouri state average.

City Median
$49,738
vs State Avg
+$0
vs National
$-6,782
Cost of Living
88%

Chef Salary in Columbia by Experience

In Columbia, an entry-level chef earns around $30,800, while experienced professionals earn up to $77,440 per year. The local cost of living index is 88% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$30,800
$-4,200 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$49,280
$-6,720 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$77,440
$-10,560 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Columbia, MO

Percentile Columbia
10th Percentile $29,216
25th Percentile $37,136
Median (50th) $49,738
75th Percentile $66,000
90th Percentile $86,064

Chef Salary in Other Missouri Cities

Kansas City, MO
$51,998
Pop. 508,090
Saint Louis, MO
$50,868
Pop. 301,578
Independence, MO
$48,042
Pop. 123,011
Springfield, MO
$46,346
Pop. 169,176

How to Become a Chef in Columbia

Education

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