Chef Salary in Omaha, Nebraska
The median chef salary in Omaha, NE is $52,564 per year, which is 7% below the national median and 3.3% above the Nebraska state average.
Chef Pay in Omaha: What to Expect (2026)
Omaha offers a median chef salary of $52,564, which is $1,696 above the Nebraska state average of $50,868. Compared to the national median of $56,520, Omaha pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Omaha's cost of living is 93% 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 Omaha spans from $30,876 at the 10th percentile to $90,954 at the 90th percentile — a $60,078 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $32,550, while senior chefs with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $81,840. With a population of 486,051, Omaha is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Chef Salary in Omaha by Experience
In Omaha, an entry-level chef earns around $32,550, while experienced professionals earn up to $81,840 per year. The local cost of living index is 93% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Omaha, NE
| Percentile | Omaha |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $30,876 |
| 25th Percentile | $39,246 |
| Median (50th) | $52,564 |
| 75th Percentile | $69,750 |
| 90th Percentile | $90,954 |
Chef Salary in Other Nebraska Cities
How to Become a Chef in Omaha
Education
Most chef positions require a high school diploma. Omaha 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 Omaha may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chef Jobs in Omaha
Browse open chef positions in Omaha, NE: