How Chef / Head Cooks in Montana get paid in 2026 — median, range, experience tiers, metro breakdown, and a comparison against national pay.
Pay tiers reflect typical Montana compensation across career stages. Specialized employers may pay above these ranges.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $40,700 | $31,000 | $52,900 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $50,600 | $38,500 | $65,800 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $58,200 | $44,300 | $75,700 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $69,800 | $53,100 | $90,800 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $79,100 | $60,200 | $102,900 |
Top occupations by median pay in Montana — 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 Montana is $58,200 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $44,300 and the 75th at $75,700.
Pay-wise, Montana sits -14% 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 Montana earn around $69,800 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $79,100 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), Montana ranks 40th 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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