Creative & Education Tacoma, WA
Pop. 219,346
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.
City Median
$62,172
vs State Avg
$-2,826
vs National
+$5,652
Cost of Living
110%
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.
Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$38,500
+$3,500 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$61,600
+$5,600 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$96,800
+$8,800 vs national
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
Culinary ArtsMenu PlanningFood SafetyKitchen ManagementCost ControlCreativity
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.