How Chef / Head Cooks in North Carolina get paid in 2026 — median, range, experience tiers, metro breakdown, and a comparison against national pay.
Pay tiers reflect typical North Carolina compensation across career stages. Specialized employers may pay above these ranges.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $46,900 | $35,600 | $60,900 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $58,200 | $44,200 | $75,700 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $67,000 | $50,900 | $87,100 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $80,400 | $61,000 | $104,500 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $91,100 | $69,200 | $118,400 |
Pay varies sharply within North Carolina. Major metros usually outpay state-wide averages.
| Metro | Median | 25th % | 75th % | vs North Carolina |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Charlotte | $68,700 | $52,200 | $89,200 | +3% |
Top occupations by median pay in North Carolina — useful context if you're weighing a career switch.
→ See full ranking of top 25 highest-paying jobs in North Carolina
If you'd consider relocating, here's how regional and comparable markets pay for the same job.
The average Chef / Head Cook salary in North Carolina is $67,000 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $50,900 and the 75th at $87,100.
Pay-wise, North Carolina sits -1% below the national Chef / Head Cook median ($67,700). Pay tracks roughly with the national average — cost of living is the deciding factor for take-home purchasing power.
Senior Chef / Head Cooks (10–14 years of experience) in North Carolina earn around $80,400 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $91,100 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), North Carolina ranks 26th 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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