Chef Salary in Akron, OH
Chefs in Akron, OH, in 2025, earn approximately $18.94 per hour, which translates to about $757.60 per week, $3,282.93 per month, and $39,395.20 per year.
The demand for Chefs in Akron is growing steadily at about 5% per year, signaling a positive outlook for aspiring culinary professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Chef Make in Akron, OH?
The salary of a Chef in Akron varies based on experience, skills, and the type of establishment where they work. Below is a general overview of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $18.62 | $744.80 | $3,215.47 | $38,585.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.94 | $757.60 | $3,282.93 | $39,395.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.71 | $828.40 | $3,574.53 | $42,996.80 |
Do Chefs in Akron Earn Tips?
Chefs in Akron generally do not earn tips as their role primarily involves food preparation and kitchen management rather than direct customer service. Their earnings are mostly derived from their salary or hourly wages.
Chef Salary in Akron vs. National Average
Nationally, Chefs earn an average of about $18.94 per hour, which amounts to approximately $39,395.20 annually.
Chefs in Akron align closely with the national average in terms of hourly and yearly earnings, reflecting a competitive salary market for culinary professionals in this region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Akron for Chefs
Nearby areas offer slightly different pay rates for Chefs:
- Downtown Akron: $19.50 per hour
- Fairlawn: $20.00 per hour
Chefs working in Fairlawn can expect slightly higher wages compared to those in Downtown Akron, likely due to differences in local dining markets and establishment types.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in Akron?
Experience and Culinary Skills greatly impact a Chef’s earnings. More experienced Chefs with advanced skills or specialties often command higher pay.
Type of Establishment matters as well. Chefs working in fine dining or upscale restaurants typically earn more than those in casual or fast-food settings.
Certifications and Education such as culinary degrees or specialized training can boost salary potential and open up advanced roles.
Job Responsibilities including kitchen management or supervising other staff influence pay, with managerial roles earning generally more.
Location within the Akron area also plays a role, with some neighborhoods offering higher wages reflecting cost of living or demand.
How To Become a Chef in Akron
Becoming a Chef in Akron involves several important steps to build a solid foundation for a culinary career.
Start with education programs like the Culinary Arts at Akron Career Tech High School, which provides an introductory overview of hospitality, restaurant management, food production, and food safety.
Obtaining certifications such as the ServSafe Certification is crucial as this food and beverage safety training is widely recognized by employers and enhances employability.
Hands-on experience gained through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level kitchen positions helps develop practical skills necessary for the role.
Continuing education, attending culinary workshops, and networking with local food industry professionals can also advance one’s career opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Akron
The following establishments are popular employers for Chefs in the Akron area:
- Crave
- Lockview
- Mustard Seed Market & Cafe
Establishments That Chefs in Akron Work At
Chefs in Akron typically find work in a variety of establishments including casual dining restaurants, fast casual eateries, fine dining venues, and catering services.
The type of establishment directly influences salary levels. Fine dining restaurants generally offer higher salaries due to the complexity and prestige of their culinary offerings.
Casual and fast casual restaurants often provide steadier work hours but may have lower pay scales, reflecting their faster pace and volume-oriented service style.
Hotel restaurants, catering companies, and institutional kitchens also employ Chefs, with salaries varying according to the size and prestige of the operation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Akron for Chefs
Exploring careers related to Chef can offer alternative career paths within the hospitality and culinary fields.
Positions such as Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Restaurant Manager share skills and responsibilities with Chef roles and may offer different salary prospects.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chefs in Akron
Understanding labor laws and tax requirements is essential for Chefs working in Akron to ensure fair employment and proper financial management.
- For federal regulations and workplace rights, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Labor statistics and detailed wage data can be found on the Bureau of Labor Statistics site.