Chef Salary in Arlington, Virginia
The median chef salary in Arlington, VA is $74,606 per year, which is 32.0% above the national median and 26.9% above the Virginia state average.
Chef Pay in Arlington: What to Expect (2026)
Arlington offers a median chef salary of $74,606, which is $15,825 above the Virginia state average of $58,781. Compared to the national median of $56,520, Arlington pays above average for this role.
However, Arlington's cost of living index is 132%, significantly above the national average. After adjusting for local costs, the $74,606 salary has an effective purchasing power of approximately $56,520. Housing, transportation, and food costs in Arlington should be factored into any relocation or job-change decision.
The salary range for chefs in Arlington spans from $43,824 at the 10th percentile to $129,096 at the 90th percentile — a $85,272 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $46,200, while senior chefs with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $116,160. With a population of 238,643, Arlington is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Chef Salary in Arlington by Experience
In Arlington, an entry-level chef earns around $46,200, while experienced professionals earn up to $116,160 per year. The local cost of living index is 132% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Arlington, VA
| Percentile | Arlington |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $43,824 |
| 25th Percentile | $55,704 |
| Median (50th) | $74,606 |
| 75th Percentile | $99,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $129,096 |
Chef Salary in Other Virginia Cities
How to Become a Chef in Arlington
Education
Most chef positions require a high school diploma. Arlington and the surrounding Virginia 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 Arlington may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chef Jobs in Arlington
Browse open chef positions in Arlington, VA: