How Chef / Head Cooks in North Dakota get paid in 2026 — median, range, experience tiers, metro breakdown, and a comparison against national pay.
Pay tiers reflect typical North Dakota compensation across career stages. Specialized employers may pay above these ranges.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $39,800 | $30,200 | $51,700 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $49,500 | $37,500 | $64,200 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $56,900 | $43,200 | $73,900 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $68,200 | $51,800 | $88,600 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $77,300 | $58,700 | $100,500 |
Top occupations by median pay in North Dakota — useful context if you're weighing a career switch.
→ See full ranking of top 25 highest-paying jobs in North Dakota
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 Dakota is $56,900 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $43,200 and the 75th at $73,900.
Pay-wise, North Dakota sits -16% 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 North Dakota earn around $68,200 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $77,300 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), North Dakota ranks 43rd 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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