Chef Salary in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
The median chef salary in Philadelphia, PA is $57,650 per year, which is 2.0% above the national median and 6.2% above the Pennsylvania state average.
Chef Pay in Philadelphia: What to Expect (2026)
Philadelphia offers a median chef salary of $57,650, which is $3,391 above the Pennsylvania state average of $54,259. Compared to the national median of $56,520, Philadelphia pays above average for this role.
Philadelphia'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 Philadelphia 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. As a major metro area with a population of 1,603,797, Philadelphia typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.
Chef Salary in Philadelphia by Experience
In Philadelphia, 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 Philadelphia, PA
| Percentile | Philadelphia |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $33,864 |
| 25th Percentile | $43,044 |
| Median (50th) | $57,650 |
| 75th Percentile | $76,500 |
| 90th Percentile | $99,756 |
Chef Salary in Other Pennsylvania Cities
How to Become a Chef in Philadelphia
Education
Most chef positions require a high school diploma. Philadelphia and the surrounding Pennsylvania 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 Philadelphia may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chef Jobs in Philadelphia
Browse open chef positions in Philadelphia, PA: