How Chef / Head Cooks in Rhode Island get paid in 2026 — median, range, experience tiers, metro breakdown, and a comparison against national pay.
Pay tiers reflect typical Rhode Island compensation across career stages. Specialized employers may pay above these ranges.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $50,200 | $38,100 | $65,300 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $62,400 | $47,400 | $81,100 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $71,800 | $54,500 | $93,300 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $86,100 | $65,400 | $111,900 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $97,600 | $74,100 | $126,800 |
Top occupations by median pay in Rhode Island — useful context if you're weighing a career switch.
→ See full ranking of top 25 highest-paying jobs in Rhode Island
If you'd consider relocating, here's how regional and comparable markets pay for the same job.
The average Chef / Head Cook salary in Rhode Island is $71,800 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $54,500 and the 75th at $93,300.
Pay-wise, Rhode Island sits +6% 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 Rhode Island earn around $86,100 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $97,600 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), Rhode Island ranks 18th 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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