Average Chefs and Head Cooks Salary in Ames, IA
The average salary for Chefs and Head Cookss in Ames, IA is $49,600. While this is lower than the national average, the cost of living in Ames, IA may offset the difference, preserving real purchasing power.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $49,600 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 4.5% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $72,070.
- Outlook: The current demand for Chefs and Head Cookss is stable, with a local workforce of approximately 80 professionals. This role remains a specialized component of the broader Ames, IA economy.
Salary Overview
The average Chefs and Head Cooks in Ames, IA earns-23.3%below the national average.
$23.9
$954
$4,133
Chefs and Head Cooks Salary Trends (2020-2024)
Over the past 3 years, Chefs and Head Cooks salaries in Ames, IA have remained stable with a modest increase of 4.5%. This positive trajectory often correlates with increased demand and a favorable future outlook for the profession.
Chefs and Head Cooks Salary Distribution in Ames, IA
The earning potential for Chefs and Head Cookss in Ames, IA varies significantly by experience level. The salary gap is relatively narrow, suggesting consistent and predictable earnings from entry-level to senior positions. Entry-level roles (10th percentile) typically start around $30,550, while highly experienced professionals can command wages upwards of $72,070.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commis ChefPrep work, learning stations, basic knife skills. | 10% (Entry) | $30,550 | $14.7 |
| Chef de PartieStation chef (Grill, Sauté). Runs a section. | 25% (Junior) | $37,200 | $17.9 |
| Sous ChefSecond in command. Managing staff & inventory. | 50% (Median) | $43,870 | $21.1 |
| Executive ChefMenu creation, costing, kitchen management. | 75% (Senior) | $62,000 | $29.8 |
| Chef OwnerRestaurateur. Multi-venue operations. | 90% (Expert) | $72,070 | $34.6 |
Detailed Chefs and Head Cooks Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$49,600
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$49,600
Adjusted for COL (100)
In Ames, IA, the Cost of Living Index is 100. This increases your effective purchasing power from $49,600 to $49,600.
Job Market Context
80
Total Jobs
1.414
Per 1K Jobs
1.2
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.20, Ames, IA has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Chefs and Head Cooks roles compared to the national norm.
80 people work as Chefs and Head Cooks in Ames, IA.
1.414 out of every 1,000 local jobs are Chefs and Head Cooks positions — a typical concentration.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Chefs and Head Cooks
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Southeast Iowa nonmetropolitan area Chefs and Head Cooks Salary | $50,030↑ 1% | 21 mi |
| Northwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area Chefs and Head Cooks Salary | $45,080↓ 9% | 21 mi |
| Northeast Iowa nonmetropolitan area Chefs and Head Cooks Salary | $40,320↓ 19% | 21 mi |
| Southwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area Chefs and Head Cooks Salary | $42,300↓ 15% | 21 mi |
| Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA Chefs and Head Cooks Salary | $53,780↑ 8% | 31 mi |
Comparing salaries near Ames, IA
Hiring Chefs and Head Cookss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Chefs and Head Cooks make in Ames, IA?
The median annual salary for a Chefs and Head Cooks in Ames, IA is $49,600. This typically ranges from $30,550 for entry-level positions to $72,070 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Ames, IA is 23.3% lower than the national median of $64,680.
Is Ames, IA a good place for Chefs and Head Cookss?
It depends on your priorities. While the average Chefs and Head Cooks salary in Ames, IA is $49,600 (below the national average), the area may offer a lower cost of living or other lifestyle benefits typical of Ames, IA. See distinct detailed breakdown below.
Is Ames, IA a good place to live for Chefs and Head Cooks?
The Cost of Living Index in Ames, IA is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Ames, IA?
Some top paying nearby cities include Southeast Iowa nonmetropolitan area ($50,030) and Northwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 80 employees in the Ames, IA area with a job density of 1.414 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Chefs and Head Cooks • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Ames, IA