Chef Salary in Buffalo, New York
The median chef salary in Buffalo, NY is $51,998 per year, which is 8% below the national median and 24.6% below the New York state average.
Chef Pay in Buffalo: What to Expect (2026)
Buffalo offers a median chef salary of $51,998, which is $16,956 below the New York state average of $68,954. Compared to the national median of $56,520, Buffalo pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Buffalo's cost of living is 92% 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 Buffalo spans from $30,544 at the 10th percentile to $89,976 at the 90th percentile — a $59,432 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $32,200, while senior chefs with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $80,960. With a population of 278,349, Buffalo is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Chef Salary in Buffalo by Experience
In Buffalo, an entry-level chef earns around $32,200, while experienced professionals earn up to $80,960 per year. The local cost of living index is 92% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Buffalo, NY
| Percentile | Buffalo |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $30,544 |
| 25th Percentile | $38,824 |
| Median (50th) | $51,998 |
| 75th Percentile | $69,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $89,976 |
Chef Salary in Other New York Cities
How to Become a Chef in Buffalo
Education
Most chef positions require a high school diploma. Buffalo and the surrounding New York 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 Buffalo may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chef Jobs in Buffalo
Browse open chef positions in Buffalo, NY: