Chef Salary in Bozeman, Montana
The median chef salary in Bozeman, MT is $64,998 per year, which is 15.0% above the national median and 21.1% above the Montana state average.
Chef Pay in Bozeman: What to Expect (2026)
Bozeman offers a median chef salary of $64,998, which is $11,304 above the Montana state average of $53,694. Compared to the national median of $56,520, Bozeman pays above average for this role.
However, Bozeman's cost of living index is 115%, significantly above the national average. After adjusting for local costs, the $64,998 salary has an effective purchasing power of approximately $56,520. Housing, transportation, and food costs in Bozeman should be factored into any relocation or job-change decision.
The salary range for chefs in Bozeman spans from $38,180 at the 10th percentile to $112,470 at the 90th percentile — a $74,290 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $40,250, while senior chefs with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $101,200. Bozeman is a smaller market (pop. 53,293), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.
Chef Salary in Bozeman by Experience
In Bozeman, an entry-level chef earns around $40,250, while experienced professionals earn up to $101,200 per year. The local cost of living index is 115% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Bozeman, MT
| Percentile | Bozeman |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $38,180 |
| 25th Percentile | $48,530 |
| Median (50th) | $64,998 |
| 75th Percentile | $86,250 |
| 90th Percentile | $112,470 |
Chef Salary in Other Montana Cities
How to Become a Chef in Bozeman
Education
Most chef positions require a high school diploma. Bozeman and the surrounding Montana 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 Bozeman may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chef Jobs in Bozeman
Browse open chef positions in Bozeman, MT: