How Chef / Head Cooks in Arkansas get paid in 2026 — median, range, experience tiers, metro breakdown, and a comparison against national pay.
Pay tiers reflect typical Arkansas compensation across career stages. Specialized employers may pay above these ranges.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $37,900 | $28,800 | $49,200 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $47,100 | $35,800 | $61,200 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $54,200 | $41,200 | $70,400 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $65,000 | $49,400 | $84,400 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $73,700 | $56,000 | $95,700 |
Top occupations by median pay in Arkansas — useful context if you're weighing a career switch.
→ See full ranking of top 25 highest-paying jobs in Arkansas
If you'd consider relocating, here's how regional and comparable markets pay for the same job.
The average Chef / Head Cook salary in Arkansas is $54,200 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $41,200 and the 75th at $70,400.
Pay-wise, Arkansas sits -20% below the national Chef / Head Cook median ($67,700). Wages run below the national median, but cost of living is often correspondingly lower; net purchasing power may be similar to higher-paying states.
Senior Chef / Head Cooks (10–14 years of experience) in Arkansas earn around $65,000 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $73,700 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), Arkansas ranks 48th for Chef / Head Cook pay. The highest-paying state pays around $98,200 on average.
The median is a benchmark, not a verdict. Your exact market value depends on your experience and education — plus your specific employer's pay band. Run the free calculator for a personalized number.
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