Executive Chef Salary Guide

A Executive Chef in the United States typically earns $65k - $120k per year. Here is how that range moves across major hospitality markets, and what pushes a number toward the top of it.

Executive Chef salary by city

Market	Typical annual range
Austin, TX	$66k - $122k
Dallas, TX	$65k - $120k
Houston, TX	$64k - $119k
Nashville, TN	$64k - $118k
Denver, CO	$68k - $126k
Chicago, IL	$69k - $127k
New York, NY	$83k - $154k
Miami, FL	$70k - $128k
Los Angeles, CA	$78k - $144k
Charleston, SC	$63k - $116k
Scottsdale, AZ	$68k - $125k
Atlanta, GA	$66k - $121k
Seattle, WA	$75k - $138k
Portland, OR	$70k - $130k
San Diego, CA	$75k - $139k

Figures are honest market estimates for full-time Executive Chefs, scaled to local cost of market. They are a guide for negotiation, not a fixed scale.

What moves the number

Venue type and volume. A high-volume or fine dining room pays above a small operation.
Proven results. Managers who can show P&L wins and low turnover command more.
City and cost of market. The same role pays meaningfully more in New York or Los Angeles than in a lower-cost metro.
Scope. Owning more outlets, a larger team, or a full property lifts the range.
Benefits and bonus. Base pay is only part of the picture, so weigh the full package.

Common questions

How much does a Executive Chef make?

A Executive Chef in the United States typically earns between $65k - $120k per year. Pay varies by city, venue type, volume, and track record, with the strongest managers at the top of the range.

Is Ellie free for job seekers?

Yes. Ellie is completely free for hospitality managers looking for their next role. There is no fee to talk with Ellie, be matched, or be introduced to an employer.

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