How Chef / Head Cooks in Massachusetts get paid in 2026 — median, range, experience tiers, metro breakdown, and a comparison against national pay.
Pay tiers reflect typical Massachusetts compensation across career stages. Specialized employers may pay above these ranges.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $59,200 | $45,000 | $77,000 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $73,600 | $55,900 | $95,700 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $84,600 | $64,300 | $110,000 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $101,500 | $77,100 | $132,000 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $115,000 | $87,400 | $149,600 |
Pay varies sharply within Massachusetts. Major metros usually outpay state-wide averages.
| Metro | Median | 25th % | 75th % | vs Massachusetts |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Boston | $89,500 | $68,000 | $116,400 | +6% |
Top occupations by median pay in Massachusetts — useful context if you're weighing a career switch.
→ See full ranking of top 25 highest-paying jobs in Massachusetts
If you'd consider relocating, here's how regional and comparable markets pay for the same job.
The average Chef / Head Cook salary in Massachusetts is $84,600 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $64,300 and the 75th at $110,000.
Pay-wise, Massachusetts sits +25% above the national Chef / Head Cook median ($67,700). That makes it one of the stronger markets — though cost of living should always be factored in alongside raw salary.
Senior Chef / Head Cooks (10–14 years of experience) in Massachusetts earn around $101,500 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $115,000 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), Massachusetts ranks 7th 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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