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.
Chef Pay in Albuquerque: What to Expect (2026)
Albuquerque offers a median chef salary of $53,694, which is $1,130 above the New Mexico state average of $52,564. Compared to the national median of $56,520, Albuquerque pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Albuquerque's cost of living is 95% 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 Albuquerque spans from $31,540 at the 10th percentile to $92,910 at the 90th percentile — a $61,370 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $33,250, while senior chefs with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $83,600. As a major metro area with a population of 564,559, Albuquerque typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.
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.
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
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
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.
Find Chef Jobs in Albuquerque
Browse open chef positions in Albuquerque, NM: