How Chef / Head Cooks in Washington get paid in 2026 — median, range, experience tiers, metro breakdown, and a comparison against national pay.
Pay tiers reflect typical Washington compensation across career stages. Specialized employers may pay above these ranges.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $61,500 | $46,800 | $80,000 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $76,500 | $58,200 | $99,500 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $88,000 | $66,900 | $114,400 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $105,600 | $80,200 | $137,200 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $119,600 | $90,900 | $155,500 |
Pay varies sharply within Washington. Major metros usually outpay state-wide averages.
| Metro | Median | 25th % | 75th % | vs Washington |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seattle | $93,400 | $71,000 | $121,500 | +6% |
Top occupations by median pay in Washington — useful context if you're weighing a career switch.
→ See full ranking of top 25 highest-paying jobs in Washington
If you'd consider relocating, here's how regional and comparable markets pay for the same job.
The average Chef / Head Cook salary in Washington is $88,000 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $66,900 and the 75th at $114,400.
Pay-wise, Washington sits +30% 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 Washington earn around $105,600 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $119,600 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), Washington ranks 5th 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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