Chef Salary in Providence, Rhode Island
The median chef salary in Providence, RI is $61,042 per year, which is 8.0% above the national median and 2.9% above the Rhode Island state average.
Chef Pay in Providence: What to Expect (2026)
Providence offers a median chef salary of $61,042, which is $1,696 above the Rhode Island state average of $59,346. Compared to the national median of $56,520, Providence pays above average for this role.
Providence's cost of living is 108% 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 Providence spans from $35,856 at the 10th percentile to $105,624 at the 90th percentile — a $69,768 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $37,800, while senior chefs with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $95,040. With a population of 190,934, Providence is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Chef Salary in Providence by Experience
In Providence, an entry-level chef earns around $37,800, while experienced professionals earn up to $95,040 per year. The local cost of living index is 108% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Providence, RI
| Percentile | Providence |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $35,856 |
| 25th Percentile | $45,576 |
| Median (50th) | $61,042 |
| 75th Percentile | $81,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $105,624 |
Chef Salary in Other Rhode Island Cities
How to Become a Chef in Providence
Education
Most chef positions require a high school diploma. Providence and the surrounding Rhode Island 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 Providence may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chef Jobs in Providence
Browse open chef positions in Providence, RI: