Creative & Education Albuquerque, NM Pop. 564,559

Chef Salary in Albuquerque, New Mexico

The median chef salary in Albuquerque, NM is $53,694 per year, which is 5% below the national median and 2.1% above the New Mexico state average.

City Median
$53,694
vs State Avg
+$1,130
vs National
$-2,826
Cost of Living
95%

Chef Salary in Albuquerque by Experience

In Albuquerque, an entry-level chef earns around $33,250, while experienced professionals earn up to $83,600 per year. The local cost of living index is 95% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$33,250
$-1,750 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$53,200
$-2,800 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$83,600
$-4,400 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Albuquerque, NM

Percentile Albuquerque
10th Percentile $31,540
25th Percentile $40,090
Median (50th) $53,694
75th Percentile $71,250
90th Percentile $92,910

Chef Salary in Other New Mexico Cities

Santa Fe, NM
$62,172
Pop. 87,505
Rio Rancho, NM
$51,998
Pop. 104,046
Las Cruces, NM
$49,738
Pop. 111,385
Roswell, NM
$46,346
Pop. 48,422

How to Become a Chef in Albuquerque

Education

Most chef positions require a high school diploma. Albuquerque and the surrounding New Mexico area have institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Culinary ArtsMenu PlanningFood SafetyKitchen ManagementCost ControlCreativity

Job Outlook

Nationally, chef employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Albuquerque may vary based on local industry and population growth.