Chef Salary in Salem, Oregon
The median chef salary in Salem, OR is $57,650 per year, which is 2.0% above the national median and 7.3% below the Oregon state average.
Chef Pay in Salem: What to Expect (2026)
Salem offers a median chef salary of $57,650, which is $4,522 below the Oregon state average of $62,172. Compared to the national median of $56,520, Salem pays above average for this role.
Salem's cost of living is 102% 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 Salem spans from $33,864 at the 10th percentile to $99,756 at the 90th percentile — a $65,892 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $35,700, while senior chefs with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $89,760. With a population of 175,535, Salem is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Chef Salary in Salem by Experience
In Salem, an entry-level chef earns around $35,700, while experienced professionals earn up to $89,760 per year. The local cost of living index is 102% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Salem, OR
| Percentile | Salem |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $33,864 |
| 25th Percentile | $43,044 |
| Median (50th) | $57,650 |
| 75th Percentile | $76,500 |
| 90th Percentile | $99,756 |
Chef Salary in Other Oregon Cities
How to Become a Chef in Salem
Education
Most chef positions require a high school diploma. Salem 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 Salem may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chef Jobs in Salem
Browse open chef positions in Salem, OR: