SalaryNode

Average Chefs and Head Cooks Salary in Memphis, TN-MS-AR

Chefs and Head Cooks in the Memphis, TN-MS-AR area can expect an average annual salary of $62,180. This figure is slightly below the national average of $64,680, a common occurrence in metropolitan areas where local economic factors and demand can influence compensation. The specific pay rates in Memphis are shaped by the region's unique economic landscape and the concentration of culinary opportunities.

Executive Summary

  • Average Salary: $62,180 per year.
  • Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 60.0% ↗ over the last 5 years.
  • Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $87,720.
  • Outlook: The Memphis culinary job market for Chefs and Head Cooks appears stable, with a total local workforce of 430 individuals. The Location Quotient of 0.58 suggests that this profession is less concentrated in Memphis compared to the national average, indicating a potentially moderate demand relative to the overall job market. While not a high-concentration area, the presence of a dedicated workforce points to ongoing opportunities within the region's food service industry.
2024 Market Data

Salary Overview

$62,180

The average Chefs and Head Cooks in Memphis, TN-MS-AR earns-3.9%below the national average.

BreakdownBased on 40h/week
Hourly

$29.9

Weekly

$1,196

Monthly

$5,182

Chefs and Head Cooks Salary Distribution in Memphis, TN-MS-AR

Career progression for Chefs and Head Cooks in Memphis, as elsewhere, is typically marked by increasing salary potential. Entry-level positions might start closer to the lower percentiles, while seasoned Head Cooks with extensive experience and specialized skills can command salaries significantly higher than the average. The salary distribution reflects a clear path for advancement, with senior roles offering greater compensation.

Experience LevelMarket PercentileAnnual WageHourly Rate
Commis ChefPrep work, learning stations, basic knife skills.10% (Entry)$39,210$18.9
Chef de PartieStation chef (Grill, Sauté). Runs a section.25% (Junior)$46,635$22.4
Sous ChefSecond in command. Managing staff & inventory.50% (Median)$60,220$29
Executive ChefMenu creation, costing, kitchen management.75% (Senior)$77,725$37.4
Chef OwnerRestaurateur. Multi-venue operations.90% (Expert)$87,720$42.2

Detailed Chefs and Head Cooks Market Analysis

Relocation Context

Nominal Salary

$62,180

Gross Pay

Real Wage (Purchasing Power)

$62,180

Adjusted for COL (100)

The average annual salary of $62,180 in Memphis, TN-MS-AR aligns perfectly with the local Cost of Living Index of 100, which is the national average. This means that the purchasing power of a Chef's or Head Cook's salary in Memphis is equivalent to the national average, offering a stable financial standing without the premium often associated with higher cost-of-living areas.

Job Market Context

430

Total Jobs

0.688

Per 1K Jobs

0.58

Location Quotient

Below Average

Memphis, TN-MS-AR has 0.58x 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.

With a Location Quotient of 0.58, the market for Chefs and Head Cooks in Memphis is less concentrated than the national average. This suggests that while the profession is present, it may not be as dominant a sector compared to other regions. This could translate to a less saturated job market for experienced professionals, potentially offering good opportunities for those with in-demand skills.

Nearby Job Markets

Nearby Cities for Chefs and Head Cooks

CitySalaryDist.
Jackson, TN Chefs and Head Cooks Salary$56,220↓ 10%74 mi

Comparing salaries near Memphis, TN-MS-AR

Hiring Chefs and Head Cookss?

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Chefs and Head Cooks make in Memphis, TN-MS-AR?

The median annual salary for a Chefs and Head Cooks in Memphis, TN-MS-AR is $62,180. This typically ranges from $39,210 for entry-level positions to $87,720 for top-level roles.

How does the salary compare to the national average?

The average salary for this role in Memphis, TN-MS-AR is 3.9% lower than the national median of $64,680.

Is Memphis, TN-MS-AR a lucrative place for Chefs and Head Cooks?

Moderately so.The average salary of $62,180 is slightly below the national average, but the cost of living is also at the national average, providing equivalent purchasing power. The lower location quotient suggests a less saturated market, which can be advantageous for skilled professionals.

Is Memphis, TN-MS-AR a good place to live for Chefs and Head Cooks?

The Cost of Living Index in Memphis, TN-MS-AR is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.

Where are the highest paying cities near Memphis, TN-MS-AR?

Some top paying nearby cities include Jackson, TN ($56,220) and others.

How does experience impact a Chef's salary in Memphis?

Experience significantly influences salary. Entry-level cooks earn less, while Head Cooks with years of experience, management skills, and specialized culinary knowledge can earn considerably more than the $62,180 average.

Is the demand for Chefs high in Memphis?

The demand appears moderate. The Location Quotient of 0.58 indicates that the concentration of Chefs and Head Cooks is below the national average, suggesting a stable but not exceptionally high demand.

What is the Cost of Living in Memphis compared to the national average?

The Cost of Living Index in Memphis is 100, which is exactly the national average. This means that the general cost of goods and services is comparable to the rest of the country.

How does the Memphis salary compare to the national average for Chefs?

The average annual salary for Chefs and Head Cooks in Memphis ($62,180) is slightly lower than the national average ($64,680).

Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 430 employees in the Memphis, TN-MS-AR area with a job density of 0.688 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.

Semantic Salary Analysis for Chefs and Head Cooks • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Memphis, TN-MS-AR