Chef Salary in Missoula, Montana
The median chef salary in Missoula, MT is $57,650 per year, which is 2.0% above the national median and 7.4% above the Montana state average.
Chef Pay in Missoula: What to Expect (2026)
Missoula offers a median chef salary of $57,650, which is $3,956 above the Montana state average of $53,694. Compared to the national median of $56,520, Missoula pays above average for this role.
Missoula's cost of living is 102% 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 Missoula spans from $33,864 at the 10th percentile to $99,756 at the 90th percentile — a $65,892 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $35,700, while senior chefs with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $89,760. Missoula is a smaller market (pop. 75,516), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.
Chef Salary in Missoula by Experience
In Missoula, an entry-level chef earns around $35,700, while experienced professionals earn up to $89,760 per year. The local cost of living index is 102% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Missoula, MT
| Percentile | Missoula |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $33,864 |
| 25th Percentile | $43,044 |
| Median (50th) | $57,650 |
| 75th Percentile | $76,500 |
| 90th Percentile | $99,756 |
Chef Salary in Other Montana Cities
How to Become a Chef in Missoula
Education
Most chef positions require a high school diploma. Missoula 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 Missoula may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chef Jobs in Missoula
Browse open chef positions in Missoula, MT: