How Chef / Head Cooks in Virginia get paid in 2026 — median, range, experience tiers, metro breakdown, and a comparison against national pay.
Pay tiers reflect typical Virginia compensation across career stages. Specialized employers may pay above these ranges.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $53,500 | $40,600 | $69,600 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $66,500 | $50,500 | $86,500 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $76,500 | $58,100 | $99,500 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $91,800 | $69,700 | $119,400 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $104,000 | $79,000 | $135,300 |
Top occupations by median pay in Virginia — useful context if you're weighing a career switch.
→ See full ranking of top 25 highest-paying jobs in Virginia
If you'd consider relocating, here's how regional and comparable markets pay for the same job.
The average Chef / Head Cook salary in Virginia is $76,500 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $58,100 and the 75th at $99,500.
Pay-wise, Virginia sits +13% 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 Virginia earn around $91,800 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $104,000 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), Virginia ranks 13th 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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