Earnings

Earnings of chefs, head cooks, and food preparation and serving supervisors vary greatly by region and the type of employer. Earnings are usually highest in upscale restaurants and hotels, where many executive chefs are employed, and in major metropolitan and resort areas.

Median annual wage-and-salary earnings of chefs and head cooks were $40,630 nationally in May 2010. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $23,260, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $70,960.

Median annual wages in the industries employing the largest numbers of chefs and head cooks in 2010:

• Traveler accomodation, including hotels and motels          $47,350
• Other amusement and recreation industries                     $47,340
• Special food services                                                     $42,380
• Full-service restaurants                                                  $38,520
• Limited-service eating places                                          $27,840

Source: U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2012-2013 Edition (http://www.bls.gov/oco/)