Chef Salary in Dover, New Hampshire
The median chef salary in Dover, NH is $58,781 per year, which is 4.0% above the national median and 1% below the New Hampshire state average.
Chef Pay in Dover: What to Expect (2026)
Dover offers a median chef salary of $58,781, which is $565 below the New Hampshire state average of $59,346. Compared to the national median of $56,520, Dover pays above average for this role.
Dover's cost of living is 104% 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 Dover spans from $34,528 at the 10th percentile to $101,712 at the 90th percentile — a $67,184 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $36,400, while senior chefs with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $91,520. Dover is a smaller market (pop. 32,741), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.
Chef Salary in Dover by Experience
In Dover, an entry-level chef earns around $36,400, while experienced professionals earn up to $91,520 per year. The local cost of living index is 104% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Dover, NH
| Percentile | Dover |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $34,528 |
| 25th Percentile | $43,888 |
| Median (50th) | $58,781 |
| 75th Percentile | $78,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $101,712 |
Chef Salary in Other New Hampshire Cities
How to Become a Chef in Dover
Education
Most chef positions require a high school diploma. Dover and the surrounding New Hampshire 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 Dover may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chef Jobs in Dover
Browse open chef positions in Dover, NH: