Chef Salary in Vermont
The median chef salary in Vermont is $57,085 per year, which is 1.0% above the national median of $56,520.
Chef Salary Overview in Vermont (2026)
Vermont ranks #16 out of 50 states for chef compensation. Vermont falls in the middle of the pack for chef pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $57,085 per year, chefs in Vermont earn $565 more than the national median of $56,520.
Vermont's cost of living is near the national average at 101%, meaning chef salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Vermont is significant: chefs at the 10th percentile earn $33,532, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $98,778 — a $65,246 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Vermont for this role is Burlington, where the median reaches $62,172.
Nationally, chef employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for chefs across the country.
Chef Salary in Vermont by Experience
In Vermont, an entry-level chef earns around $35,350, while experienced professionals earn up to $88,880 per year. The cost of living index in Vermont is 101% of the national average.
Save More on Student Loans
Earning $57,085? You may qualify for student loan refinancing rates as low as 4.49% — potentially saving $14,000+ over the life of your loan.
Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Vermont
| Percentile | VT Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $33,532 |
| 25th Percentile | $42,622 |
| Median (50th) | $57,085 |
| 75th Percentile | $75,750 |
| 90th Percentile | $98,778 |
Chef Salary by City in Vermont
The largest employment areas for chefs in Vermont include Burlington, Essex, South Burlington, and Colchester. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Chef in Vermont
Education
Most chef positions require a high school diploma. Vermont has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Vermont
Nationally, chef employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Vermont's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Chefs who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $31,795 over your career trajectory.
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