Chef Salary in Akron, Ohio
The median chef salary in Akron, OH is $47,477 per year, which is 16% below the national median and 6.7% below the Ohio state average.
Chef Pay in Akron: What to Expect (2026)
Akron offers a median chef salary of $47,477, which is $3,391 below the Ohio state average of $50,868. Compared to the national median of $56,520, Akron pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Akron's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 84% of the national average. This means the $47,477 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $56,520 in an average-cost city. This makes Akron an attractive option for chefs seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for chefs in Akron spans from $27,888 at the 10th percentile to $82,152 at the 90th percentile — a $54,264 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $29,400, while senior chefs with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $73,920. With a population of 190,469, Akron is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Chef Salary in Akron by Experience
In Akron, an entry-level chef earns around $29,400, while experienced professionals earn up to $73,920 per year. The local cost of living index is 84% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Akron, OH
| Percentile | Akron |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $27,888 |
| 25th Percentile | $35,448 |
| Median (50th) | $47,477 |
| 75th Percentile | $63,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $82,152 |
Chef Salary in Other Ohio Cities
How to Become a Chef in Akron
Education
Most chef positions require a high school diploma. Akron and the surrounding Ohio 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 Akron may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chef Jobs in Akron
Browse open chef positions in Akron, OH: