How Chef / Head Cooks in Nevada get paid in 2026 — median, range, experience tiers, metro breakdown, and a comparison against national pay.
Pay tiers reflect typical Nevada compensation across career stages. Specialized employers may pay above these ranges.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $56,800 | $43,100 | $73,900 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $70,600 | $53,600 | $91,800 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $81,200 | $61,700 | $105,600 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $97,400 | $74,000 | $126,700 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $110,400 | $83,900 | $143,600 |
Pay varies sharply within Nevada. Major metros usually outpay state-wide averages.
| Metro | Median | 25th % | 75th % | vs Nevada |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Las Vegas | $71,000 | $53,900 | $92,200 | -13% |
Top occupations by median pay in Nevada — 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 Nevada is $81,200 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $61,700 and the 75th at $105,600.
Pay-wise, Nevada sits +20% 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 Nevada earn around $97,400 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $110,400 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), Nevada ranks 10th 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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