Chef Salary in Lincoln, Nebraska
The median chef salary in Lincoln, NE is $50,868 per year, which is 10% below the national median and 0.0% above the Nebraska state average.
Chef Pay in Lincoln: What to Expect (2026)
Lincoln offers a median chef salary of $50,868, which is $0 above the Nebraska state average of $50,868. Compared to the national median of $56,520, Lincoln pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Lincoln's cost of living is 90% 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 Lincoln spans from $29,880 at the 10th percentile to $88,020 at the 90th percentile — a $58,140 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $31,500, while senior chefs with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $79,200. With a population of 291,082, Lincoln is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Chef Salary in Lincoln by Experience
In Lincoln, an entry-level chef earns around $31,500, while experienced professionals earn up to $79,200 per year. The local cost of living index is 90% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Lincoln, NE
| Percentile | Lincoln |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $29,880 |
| 25th Percentile | $37,980 |
| Median (50th) | $50,868 |
| 75th Percentile | $67,500 |
| 90th Percentile | $88,020 |
Chef Salary in Other Nebraska Cities
How to Become a Chef in Lincoln
Education
Most chef positions require a high school diploma. Lincoln and the surrounding Nebraska 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 Lincoln may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chef Jobs in Lincoln
Browse open chef positions in Lincoln, NE: