Chef Salary in Vancouver, Washington
The median chef salary in Vancouver, WA is $57,650 per year, which is 2.0% above the national median and 11.3% below the Washington state average.
Chef Pay in Vancouver: What to Expect (2026)
Vancouver offers a median chef salary of $57,650, which is $7,348 below the Washington state average of $64,998. Compared to the national median of $56,520, Vancouver pays above average for this role.
Vancouver's cost of living is 102% 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 Vancouver spans from $33,864 at the 10th percentile to $99,756 at the 90th percentile — a $65,892 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $35,700, while senior chefs with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $89,760. With a population of 190,915, Vancouver is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Chef Salary in Vancouver by Experience
In Vancouver, an entry-level chef earns around $35,700, while experienced professionals earn up to $89,760 per year. The local cost of living index is 102% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Vancouver, WA
| Percentile | Vancouver |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $33,864 |
| 25th Percentile | $43,044 |
| Median (50th) | $57,650 |
| 75th Percentile | $76,500 |
| 90th Percentile | $99,756 |
Chef Salary in Other Washington Cities
How to Become a Chef in Vancouver
Education
Most chef positions require a high school diploma. Vancouver 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 Vancouver may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chef Jobs in Vancouver
Browse open chef positions in Vancouver, WA: