Average Chefs and Head Cooks Salary in Massachusetts
Chefs and Head Cooks in Massachusetts command an impressive average annual salary of $75,900, substantially exceeding the national average of $64,680. This elevated compensation is largely driven by the state's robust economy and a higher cost of living, necessitating greater pay to attract and retain skilled culinary professionals.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $75,900 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 15.3% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $111,360.
- Outlook: With a local workforce of 5,330 Chefs and Head Cooks, Massachusetts demonstrates a significant concentration of these professionals, as indicated by a Location Quotient of 1.24. This suggests a healthy demand and a well-established culinary industry within the state, offering a stable job market for those in this field.
Salary Overview
The average Chefs and Head Cooks in Massachusetts earns+17.3%above the national average.
$36.5
$1,460
$6,325
Chefs and Head Cooks Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data isn't provided, it's reasonable to assume that salaries for Chefs and Head Cooks in Massachusetts have experienced consistent growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. Factors such as inflation, increasing demand for sophisticated dining experiences, and the need for experienced culinary leadership likely contribute to this upward salary trajectory.
Chefs and Head Cooks Salary Distribution in Massachusetts
Salary progression for Chefs and Head Cooks in Massachusetts typically scales significantly with experience. Entry-level positions may start closer to the lower percentiles, while seasoned Head Cooks with extensive experience and specialized skills can command salaries in the upper percentiles. The widening gap between entry-level and senior roles reflects the value placed on expertise, leadership, and a proven track record in the culinary arts.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commis ChefPrep work, learning stations, basic knife skills. | 10% (Entry) | $48,070 | $23.1 |
| Chef de PartieStation chef (Grill, Sauté). Runs a section. | 25% (Junior) | $56,925 | $27.4 |
| Sous ChefSecond in command. Managing staff & inventory. | 50% (Median) | $71,330 | $34.3 |
| Executive ChefMenu creation, costing, kitchen management. | 75% (Senior) | $94,875 | $45.6 |
| Chef OwnerRestaurateur. Multi-venue operations. | 90% (Expert) | $111,360 | $53.5 |
Detailed Chefs and Head Cooks Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$75,900
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$51,146
Adjusted for COL (148.4)
While the average annual salary of $75,900 in Massachusetts appears attractive, it's crucial to consider the state's Cost of Living Index of 148.4. This index, significantly above the national average of 100, indicates that everyday expenses such as housing, transportation, and groceries are considerably higher. Therefore, the purchasing power of the $75,900 salary may be somewhat diminished compared to lower cost-of-living areas, requiring careful budgeting.
Job Market Context
5,330
Total Jobs
1.464
Per 1K Jobs
1.24
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.24, Massachusetts has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Chefs and Head Cooks roles compared to the national norm.
The Location Quotient of 1.24 for Chefs and Head Cooks in Massachusetts signifies a higher concentration of these roles compared to the national average. This suggests a competitive market where employers may need to offer attractive compensation and benefits to secure top talent, while also indicating a strong presence and demand for culinary expertise within the state's economy.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Chefs and Head Cooks
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Worcester, MA Chefs and Head Cooks Salary | $69,880↓ 8% | 14 mi |
| Boston-Cambridge-Newton, MA-NH Chefs and Head Cooks Salary | $77,100↑ 2% | 24 mi |
| Providence-Warwick, RI-MA Chefs and Head Cooks Salary | $81,590↑ 7% | 29 mi |
| Amherst Town-Northampton, MA Chefs and Head Cooks Salary | $70,480↓ 7% | 52 mi |
| Springfield, MA Chefs and Head Cooks Salary | $67,550↓ 11% | 52 mi |
Comparing salaries near Massachusetts
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Chefs and Head Cooks make in Massachusetts?
The median annual salary for a Chefs and Head Cooks in Massachusetts is $75,900. This typically ranges from $48,070 for entry-level positions to $111,360 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Massachusetts is 17.3% higher than the national median of $64,680.
Is Massachusetts a lucrative place for Chefs and Head Cooks?
Yes, Massachusetts is a lucrative place for Chefs and Head Cooks.The average salary of $75,900 is significantly higher than the national average, and the strong concentration of roles suggests robust demand.
Is Massachusetts a good place to live for Chefs and Head Cooks?
The Cost of Living Index in Massachusetts is 148.4. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Massachusetts?
Some top paying nearby cities include Worcester, MA ($69,880) and Boston-Cambridge-Newton, MA-NH.
How does the Massachusetts salary compare to the national average?
Chefs and Head Cooks in Massachusetts earn an average of $75,900 annually, which is approximately $11,220 more than the national average of $64,680.
What is the concentration of Chefs and Head Cooks in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts has a higher concentration of Chefs and Head Cooks than the national average, with a Location Quotient of 1.24, indicating more jobs per worker relative to the nation.
How does the cost of living affect the Chef salary in Massachusetts?
The high cost of living in Massachusetts (148.4) means that while the nominal salary is high, the actual purchasing power might be less than in areas with a lower cost of living.
What is the total number of Chefs and Head Cooks employed in Massachusetts?
There are approximately 5,330 Chefs and Head Cooks employed in Massachusetts, reflecting a substantial culinary workforce within the state.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 5,330 employees in the Massachusetts area with a job density of 1.464 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 Massachusetts