Chef Salary in Bellevue, Washington
The median chef salary in Bellevue, WA is $85,910 per year, which is 52.0% above the national median and 32.2% above the Washington state average.
Chef Pay in Bellevue: What to Expect (2026)
Bellevue offers a median chef salary of $85,910, which is $20,912 above the Washington state average of $64,998. Compared to the national median of $56,520, Bellevue pays above average for this role.
However, Bellevue's cost of living index is 152%, significantly above the national average. After adjusting for local costs, the $85,910 salary has an effective purchasing power of approximately $56,520. Housing, transportation, and food costs in Bellevue should be factored into any relocation or job-change decision.
The salary range for chefs in Bellevue spans from $50,464 at the 10th percentile to $148,656 at the 90th percentile — a $98,192 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $53,200, while senior chefs with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $133,760. With a population of 151,854, Bellevue is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Chef Salary in Bellevue by Experience
In Bellevue, an entry-level chef earns around $53,200, while experienced professionals earn up to $133,760 per year. The local cost of living index is 152% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Bellevue, WA
| Percentile | Bellevue |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $50,464 |
| 25th Percentile | $64,144 |
| Median (50th) | $85,910 |
| 75th Percentile | $114,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $148,656 |
Chef Salary in Other Washington Cities
How to Become a Chef in Bellevue
Education
Most chef positions require a high school diploma. Bellevue and the surrounding Washington 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 Bellevue may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chef Jobs in Bellevue
Browse open chef positions in Bellevue, WA: