How Chef / Head Cooks in Kansas get paid in 2026 — median, range, experience tiers, metro breakdown, and a comparison against national pay.
Pay tiers reflect typical Kansas compensation across career stages. Specialized employers may pay above these ranges.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $41,200 | $31,300 | $53,600 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $51,200 | $38,900 | $66,600 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $58,900 | $44,800 | $76,600 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $70,600 | $53,700 | $91,900 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $80,100 | $60,900 | $104,100 |
Top occupations by median pay in Kansas — useful context if you're weighing a career switch.
If you'd consider relocating, here's how regional and comparable markets pay for the same job.
The average Chef / Head Cook salary in Kansas is $58,900 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $44,800 and the 75th at $76,600.
Pay-wise, Kansas sits -13% 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 Kansas earn around $70,600 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $80,100 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), Kansas ranks 37th 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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