Creative & Education Pennsylvania (PA) Rank #23 of 50

Chef Salary in Pennsylvania

The median chef salary in Pennsylvania is $54,259 per year, which is 4% below the national median of $56,520.

Median Salary
$54,259
vs National
$-2,261
State Rank
#23 of 50
Cost of Living
96%

Chef Salary in Pennsylvania by Experience

In Pennsylvania, an entry-level chef earns around $33,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $84,480 per year. The cost of living index in Pennsylvania is 96% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$33,600
$-1,400 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$53,760
$-2,240 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$84,480
$-3,520 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Pennsylvania

Percentile PA Salary
10th Percentile $31,872
25th Percentile $40,512
Median (50th) $54,259
75th Percentile $72,000
90th Percentile $93,888

Major Cities for Chefs in Pennsylvania

The largest employment areas for chefs in Pennsylvania include Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, and Reading. Salaries in major metro areas may be higher due to increased demand and cost of living.

Philadelphia, PA
Metro area for chef employment
Pittsburgh, PA
Metro area for chef employment
Allentown, PA
Metro area for chef employment
Reading, PA
Metro area for chef employment
Erie, PA
Metro area for chef employment

How to Become a Chef in Pennsylvania

Education

Most chef positions require a high school diploma. Pennsylvania has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Culinary ArtsMenu PlanningFood SafetyKitchen ManagementCost ControlCreativity

Job Outlook in Pennsylvania

Nationally, chef employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Pennsylvania's demand may vary based on local industry trends.