What is a good salary for a Executive Chef?
In 2026, a good Executive Chef salary is around $80K (the national median). $97K+ is great (top 25%), and $115K+ is top-tier (top 10%). Earning below $66K is under market — worth a negotiation.
Under the 25th percentile — grounds to negotiate.
Solid for early-career or lower-cost areas.
At/above the median — a genuinely good salary.
Top quartile; $115K+ is top 10%.
It depends on where and how senior you are
Common questions
What is a good salary for a Executive Chef in 2026?
A good Executive Chef salary is around $80K (the national median). $97K+ is great (top 25%) and $115K+ is top-tier (top 10%). Anything below $66K is under market for the role.
What is a high salary for a Executive Chef?
$97K puts you in the top quartile; $115K or more is top-10% pay for a Executive Chef. Reaching it usually means senior level, in-demand skills, or a high-cost metro.
Does a good Executive Chef salary depend on location?
Yes — the same number goes much further in a low-cost city. Use the cost-of-living check to see what a salary is really worth where you live.
Percentiles from BLS-anchored national data; a good salary also depends on cost of living and your level.