Chef Salary in Wisconsin
The median chef salary in Wisconsin is $51,998 per year, which is 8% below the national median of $56,520.
Chef Salary Overview in Wisconsin (2026)
Wisconsin ranks #31 out of 50 states for chef compensation. Chef salaries in Wisconsin are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $51,998 per year, chefs in Wisconsin earn $4,522 less than the national median of $56,520.
A key advantage of working in Wisconsin is its below-average cost of living (92% of the national index). This means the $51,998 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $56,520 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Wisconsin is significant: chefs at the 10th percentile earn $30,544, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $89,976 — a $59,432 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Wisconsin for this role is Madison, where the median reaches $56,520.
Nationally, chef employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for chefs across the country.
Chef Salary in Wisconsin by Experience
In Wisconsin, an entry-level chef earns around $32,200, while experienced professionals earn up to $80,960 per year. The cost of living index in Wisconsin is 92% of the national average.
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Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Wisconsin
| Percentile | WI Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $30,544 |
| 25th Percentile | $38,824 |
| Median (50th) | $51,998 |
| 75th Percentile | $69,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $89,976 |
Chef Salary by City in Wisconsin
The largest employment areas for chefs in Wisconsin include Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay, and Kenosha. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Chef in Wisconsin
Education
Most chef positions require a high school diploma. Wisconsin has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Wisconsin
Nationally, chef employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Wisconsin's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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