Chef Salary in Norfolk, Virginia
The median chef salary in Norfolk, VA is $54,259 per year, which is 4% below the national median and 7.7% below the Virginia state average.
Chef Pay in Norfolk: What to Expect (2026)
Norfolk offers a median chef salary of $54,259, which is $4,522 below the Virginia state average of $58,781. Compared to the national median of $56,520, Norfolk pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Norfolk's cost of living is 96% 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 Norfolk spans from $31,872 at the 10th percentile to $93,888 at the 90th percentile — a $62,016 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $33,600, while senior chefs with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $84,480. With a population of 238,005, Norfolk is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Chef Salary in Norfolk by Experience
In Norfolk, an entry-level chef earns around $33,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $84,480 per year. The local cost of living index is 96% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Norfolk, VA
| Percentile | Norfolk |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $31,872 |
| 25th Percentile | $40,512 |
| Median (50th) | $54,259 |
| 75th Percentile | $72,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $93,888 |
Chef Salary in Other Virginia Cities
How to Become a Chef in Norfolk
Education
Most chef positions require a high school diploma. Norfolk 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 Norfolk may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chef Jobs in Norfolk
Browse open chef positions in Norfolk, VA: