Federal government, lobbying, defense, professional services. Here's how Chef / Head Cooks in Washington get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the Washington metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $66,300 | $50,400 | $86,200 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $82,400 | $62,600 | $107,100 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $94,800 | $72,000 | $123,200 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $113,700 | $86,400 | $147,800 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $128,900 | $97,900 | $167,500 |
Highest-paying metros for Chef / Head Cooks — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Washington metro economy.
The average Chef / Head Cook salary in the Washington metro is $94,800 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $72,000 to $123,200 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $156,400 or more.
Yes — Washington pays +0% relative to the Washington DC 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.
Washington vs. national: +40%. That puts Washington among the stronger US markets for Chef / Head Cooks — though cost of living in Washington is also typically elevated.
In Washington, the median Chef / Head Cook salary of $94,800 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Chef / Head Cooks in Washington start around $66,300, while seniors (10+ years) reach $113,700 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 →