Chef Salary in Helena, Montana
The median chef salary in Helena, MT is $53,129 per year, which is 6% below the national median and 1.1% below the Montana state average.
Chef Pay in Helena: What to Expect (2026)
Helena offers a median chef salary of $53,129, which is $565 below the Montana state average of $53,694. Compared to the national median of $56,520, Helena pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Helena's cost of living is 94% 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 Helena spans from $31,208 at the 10th percentile to $91,932 at the 90th percentile — a $60,724 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $32,900, while senior chefs with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $82,720. Helena is a smaller market (pop. 32,315), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.
Chef Salary in Helena by Experience
In Helena, an entry-level chef earns around $32,900, while experienced professionals earn up to $82,720 per year. The local cost of living index is 94% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Helena, MT
| Percentile | Helena |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $31,208 |
| 25th Percentile | $39,668 |
| Median (50th) | $53,129 |
| 75th Percentile | $70,500 |
| 90th Percentile | $91,932 |
Chef Salary in Other Montana Cities
How to Become a Chef in Helena
Education
Most chef positions require a high school diploma. Helena 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 Helena may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chef Jobs in Helena
Browse open chef positions in Helena, MT: