Amazon, Microsoft, Boeing — no state income tax. Here's how Chef / Head Cooks in Seattle get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the Seattle metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $65,300 | $49,700 | $85,000 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $81,200 | $61,700 | $105,700 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $93,400 | $71,000 | $121,500 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $112,000 | $85,200 | $145,800 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $127,000 | $96,500 | $165,200 |
Highest-paying metros for Chef / Head Cooks — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Seattle metro economy.
The average Chef / Head Cook salary in the Seattle metro is $93,400 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $71,000 to $121,500 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $154,200 or more.
Yes — Seattle pays +6% relative to the Washington state median for Chef / Head Cooks. Major metros typically concentrate higher-paying employers and command a wage premium over rural and small-city areas in the same state.
Seattle vs. national: +38%. That puts Seattle among the stronger US markets for Chef / Head Cooks — though cost of living in Seattle is also typically elevated.
In Seattle, the median Chef / Head Cook salary of $93,400 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Chef / Head Cooks in Seattle start around $65,300, while seniors (10+ years) reach $112,000 or more.
Metro medians are useful benchmarks — but your exact number depends on your experience, education, and the specific employer. Run the free calculator for a personalized read.
Get my personal salary report →