Chef Salary in Eugene, Oregon
The median chef salary in Eugene, OR is $59,346 per year, which is 5.0% above the national median and 4.5% below the Oregon state average.
Chef Pay in Eugene: What to Expect (2026)
Eugene offers a median chef salary of $59,346, which is $2,826 below the Oregon state average of $62,172. Compared to the national median of $56,520, Eugene pays above average for this role.
Eugene's cost of living is 105% 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 Eugene spans from $34,860 at the 10th percentile to $102,690 at the 90th percentile — a $67,830 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $36,750, while senior chefs with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $92,400. With a population of 176,654, Eugene is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Chef Salary in Eugene by Experience
In Eugene, an entry-level chef earns around $36,750, while experienced professionals earn up to $92,400 per year. The local cost of living index is 105% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Eugene, OR
| Percentile | Eugene |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $34,860 |
| 25th Percentile | $44,310 |
| Median (50th) | $59,346 |
| 75th Percentile | $78,750 |
| 90th Percentile | $102,690 |
Chef Salary in Other Oregon Cities
How to Become a Chef in Eugene
Education
Most chef positions require a high school diploma. Eugene and the surrounding Oregon 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 Eugene may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chef Jobs in Eugene
Browse open chef positions in Eugene, OR: