👨‍🍳 Hospitality & Culinary ↑ 15% growth · Much faster than average

Chef / Culinary Professional

Chefs create menus, lead kitchen brigades, and bring culinary visions to life. Executive chefs and restaurant owners can earn $100K+. Culinary school is one path, but working up through kitchens is equally valid — and many great chefs are self-taught.

$56,520 Median Salary
154K US Jobs
1–2 years (AAS) or self-taught Training
$10,000–$60,000 Typical Cost

💰 Salary & Earning Potential

Salary data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Figures represent national averages — local wages vary by state, city, and employer.

Entry Level
$34,000
Median
$56,520
Experienced
$95,000
Want your state's salary? Select a state below to see local wage data, demand, and training programs.

📈 Job Outlook

15%
Projected Growth (10yr)
Much faster than average
154K
Total US Jobs
Active positions nationwide
ServSafe Manager + ACF Certifications
Required Credential
ServSafe Manager + ACF Certifications

🎓 Training & Education

Typical Program
Culinary Arts AAS or Certificate
Program Length
1–2 years (AAS) or self-taught
Typical Tuition
$10,000–$60,000
Work Setting
Restaurants, hotels, resorts, hospitals, catering companies
🏆 Credential Required: ServSafe Manager + ACF Certifications

☀️ Day in the Life

A typical day as a Chef / Culinary Professional involves working closely with clients and colleagues in a Restaurants environment. You'll apply your training daily while building expertise and advancing your career.

⚖️ Pros & Cons

Advantages

  • ✅ Strong job security
  • ✅ Rewarding work
  • ✅ Clear career progression
  • ✅ Growing demand

Challenges

  • ⚠️ Can be physically demanding
  • ⚠️ May require ongoing certification
  • ⚠️ Entry-level wages vary by region

🏫 Schools Offering This Program

Public Technical College
⭐ 90

Savannah Technical College

📍 Savannah, GA

Coastal Georgia's primary technical college. Unique culinary arts program in addition to strong healthcare and trades of...

LPNMedical AssistingCNADental AssistingRadiography

🗺️ Chef / Culinary Professional by State

See local salary data, licensing requirements, and schools in your state: