Chef Salary in Richmond, Virginia
The median chef salary in Richmond, VA is $56,520 per year, which is 0.0% above the national median and 3.8% below the Virginia state average.
Chef Pay in Richmond: What to Expect (2026)
Richmond offers a median chef salary of $56,520, which is $2,261 below the Virginia state average of $58,781. Compared to the national median of $56,520, Richmond pays above average for this role.
Richmond's cost of living is 100% 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 Richmond spans from $33,200 at the 10th percentile to $97,800 at the 90th percentile — a $64,600 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $35,000, while senior chefs with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $88,000. With a population of 226,610, Richmond is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Chef Salary in Richmond by Experience
In Richmond, an entry-level chef earns around $35,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $88,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 100% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Richmond, VA
| Percentile | Richmond |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $33,200 |
| 25th Percentile | $42,200 |
| Median (50th) | $56,520 |
| 75th Percentile | $75,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $97,800 |
Chef Salary in Other Virginia Cities
How to Become a Chef in Richmond
Education
Most chef positions require a high school diploma. Richmond 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 Richmond may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chef Jobs in Richmond
Browse open chef positions in Richmond, VA: