Chef Salary in Rochester, New Hampshire
The median chef salary in Rochester, NH is $55,390 per year, which is 2% below the national median and 6.7% below the New Hampshire state average.
Chef Pay in Rochester: What to Expect (2026)
Rochester offers a median chef salary of $55,390, which is $3,956 below the New Hampshire state average of $59,346. Compared to the national median of $56,520, Rochester pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Rochester's cost of living is 98% 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 Rochester spans from $32,536 at the 10th percentile to $95,844 at the 90th percentile — a $63,308 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $34,300, while senior chefs with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $86,240. Rochester is a smaller market (pop. 31,366), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.
Chef Salary in Rochester by Experience
In Rochester, an entry-level chef earns around $34,300, while experienced professionals earn up to $86,240 per year. The local cost of living index is 98% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Rochester, NH
| Percentile | Rochester |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $32,536 |
| 25th Percentile | $41,356 |
| Median (50th) | $55,390 |
| 75th Percentile | $73,500 |
| 90th Percentile | $95,844 |
Chef Salary in Other New Hampshire Cities
How to Become a Chef in Rochester
Education
Most chef positions require a high school diploma. Rochester 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 Rochester may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chef Jobs in Rochester
Browse open chef positions in Rochester, NH: