Average Chefs and Head Cooks Salary in Auburn-Opelika, AL
The average salary for a Chefs and Head Cooks in Auburn-Opelika, AL is $65,180. This compensation is in line with national standards, reflecting a balanced and stable local job market.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $65,180 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 26.8% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $84,360.
- Outlook: The current demand for Chefs and Head Cookss is stable, with a local workforce of approximately 70 professionals. This role remains a specialized component of the broader Auburn-Opelika, AL economy.
Salary Overview
The average Chefs and Head Cooks in Auburn-Opelika, AL earns+0.8%above the national average.
$31.3
$1,253
$5,432
Chefs and Head Cooks Salary Trends (2020-2024)
Over the past 4 years, Chefs and Head Cooks salaries in Auburn-Opelika, AL have experienced a rapid surge, growing by 26.8%. This positive trajectory often correlates with increased demand and a favorable future outlook for the profession.
Chefs and Head Cooks Salary Distribution in Auburn-Opelika, AL
The earning potential for Chefs and Head Cookss in Auburn-Opelika, AL 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 $36,720, while highly experienced professionals can command wages upwards of $84,360.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commis ChefPrep work, learning stations, basic knife skills. | 10% (Entry) | $36,720 | $17.7 |
| Chef de PartieStation chef (Grill, Sauté). Runs a section. | 25% (Junior) | $48,885 | $23.5 |
| Sous ChefSecond in command. Managing staff & inventory. | 50% (Median) | $66,550 | $32 |
| Executive ChefMenu creation, costing, kitchen management. | 75% (Senior) | $81,475 | $39.2 |
| Chef OwnerRestaurateur. Multi-venue operations. | 90% (Expert) | $84,360 | $40.6 |
Detailed Chefs and Head Cooks Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$65,180
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$65,180
Adjusted for COL (100)
In Auburn-Opelika, AL, the Cost of Living Index is 100. This increases your effective purchasing power from $65,180 to $65,180.
Job Market Context
70
Total Jobs
0.908
Per 1K Jobs
0.77
Location Quotient
Auburn-Opelika, AL has 0.77x the national average concentration of Chefs and Head Cooks jobs. This means there are fewer opportunities per capita here compared to the U.S. average — competition for roles may be higher.
70 people work as Chefs and Head Cooks in Auburn-Opelika, AL.
Only 0.908 out of every 1,000 local jobs are Chefs and Head Cooks roles — this is a niche profession in the area.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Chefs and Head Cooks
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Columbus, GA-AL Chefs and Head Cooks Salary | $52,660↓ 19% | 36 mi |
| Montgomery, AL Chefs and Head Cooks Salary | $61,820↓ 5% | 49 mi |
| Northeast Alabama nonmetropolitan area Chefs and Head Cooks Salary | $59,710↓ 8% | 77 mi |
Comparing salaries near Auburn-Opelika, AL
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Chefs and Head Cooks make in Auburn-Opelika, AL?
The median annual salary for a Chefs and Head Cooks in Auburn-Opelika, AL is $65,180. This typically ranges from $36,720 for entry-level positions to $84,360 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Auburn-Opelika, AL is 0.8% higher than the national median of $64,680.
Is Auburn-Opelika, AL a good place for Chefs and Head Cookss?
Yes, Auburn-Opelika, AL is financially attractive for Chefs and Head Cookss. The average salary of $65,180 exceeds the national average. See distinct detailed breakdown below.
Is Auburn-Opelika, AL a good place to live for Chefs and Head Cooks?
The Cost of Living Index in Auburn-Opelika, AL is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Auburn-Opelika, AL?
Some top paying nearby cities include Columbus, GA-AL ($52,660) and Montgomery, AL.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 70 employees in the Auburn-Opelika, AL area with a job density of 0.908 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 Auburn-Opelika, AL