Chef Salary in Tacoma, Washington
The median chef salary in Tacoma, WA is $62,172 per year, which is 10.0% above the national median and 4.3% below the Washington state average.
Chef Pay in Tacoma: What to Expect (2026)
Tacoma offers a median chef salary of $62,172, which is $2,826 below the Washington state average of $64,998. Compared to the national median of $56,520, Tacoma pays above average for this role.
Tacoma's cost of living is 110% 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 Tacoma spans from $36,520 at the 10th percentile to $107,580 at the 90th percentile — a $71,060 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $38,500, while senior chefs with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $96,800. With a population of 219,346, Tacoma is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Chef Salary in Tacoma by Experience
In Tacoma, an entry-level chef earns around $38,500, while experienced professionals earn up to $96,800 per year. The local cost of living index is 110% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Tacoma, WA
| Percentile | Tacoma |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $36,520 |
| 25th Percentile | $46,420 |
| Median (50th) | $62,172 |
| 75th Percentile | $82,500 |
| 90th Percentile | $107,580 |
Chef Salary in Other Washington Cities
How to Become a Chef in Tacoma
Education
Most chef positions require a high school diploma. Tacoma 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 Tacoma may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chef Jobs in Tacoma
Browse open chef positions in Tacoma, WA: