The average chef salary in the United States was $48,868 per year as of May 27, 2021 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, according toSalary.com, the salary range typically falls between $39,787 and $60,977.1 Salary can vary based on experience, where you work, and what kind of chef you are. It's important to note that, to become a chef, you may need more culinary education and experience than offered in a certificate level program and many chefs initially start their careers as line cooks, sous chefs, or in other assistant kitchen roles.