Chef Salary in Anchorage, AK
Chefs in Anchorage, AK, in 2026, earn approximately $17.77 per hour, which translates to about $710.80 per week, $3,080.13 per month, and $36,961.60 per year.
The demand for Chefs in Anchorage is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy outlook with increasing opportunities in the local culinary scene.
How Much Does a Chef Make in Anchorage, AK?
The salary of a Chef in Anchorage can vary depending on experience and specific employers, providing a range of earnings from entry-level to top earners.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.24 | $569.60 | $2,460.53 | $29,635.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.77 | $710.80 | $3,080.13 | $36,961.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.17 | $886.80 | $3,824.80 | $45,993.60 |
Do Chefs in Anchorage Earn Tips?
Chefs can sometimes earn an extra $5 to $15 per day in tips depending on the type of establishment, although tipping is more commonly directed towards front-of-house staff.
Chef Salary in Anchorage vs. National Average
Nationally, Chefs earn an average of around $19.75 per hour, translating to about $41,080 per year.
Compared to the national average, Chefs in Anchorage earn slightly less hourly at $17.77. This difference may reflect the specific market and cost of living conditions in Alaska.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Anchorage for Chefs
Chefs in nearby areas of Anchorage can expect the following pay rates:
- Downtown Anchorage: $18.50 per hour
- Midtown Anchorage: $19.00 per hour
Chefs working in Midtown Anchorage tend to earn the highest wages in the area, reflecting the competitive culinary market there.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in Anchorage?
Several factors can affect how much a Chef earns in Anchorage. These include:
- Experience Level: More experienced Chefs typically earn higher wages due to their advanced culinary skills and leadership abilities.
- Skill Set: Specializations in specific cuisines or advanced cooking techniques can command better pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, or resorts generally offer higher salaries compared to casual or fast food restaurants.
- Education & Certifications: Formal culinary education and certifications can enhance a Chef's earning potential.
- Location Within Anchorage: Salaries may vary between Downtown, Midtown, and other nearby districts.
How To Become a Chef in Anchorage
Starting a career as a Chef in Anchorage involves several key steps to build the necessary skills and credentials.
- Enroll in culinary education programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at University of Alaska Anchorage, which offers comprehensive training in culinary techniques and kitchen management.
- Gain hands-on experience through programs like the Alaska Culinary Academy at AVTEC, providing practical culinary arts skills and industry certifications.
- Obtain essential food safety certifications required in Alaska, such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and the Alaska Food Worker Card to ensure compliance with health regulations.
- Build experience through internships or entry-level positions in local kitchens to develop practical skills.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Anchorage
Some of the prominent establishments looking for talented Chefs in Anchorage include:
- Marriott Anchorage Downtown
- Simon & Seafort's Saloon & Grill
- Crow's Nest Restaurant
Establishments That Chefs in Anchorage Work At
Chefs in Anchorage typically find employment in a variety of food service venues, each influencing their earning potential:
- Casual and Fine Dining Restaurants: Offer a wide range of salaries often dependent on the establishment’s size and clientele.
- Hotels and Resorts: Usually pay higher wages and provide more stability along with opportunities for advancement.
- Catering Companies: Can provide diverse experience but sometimes with more variable pay.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: Often offer starting wages but less opportunity for higher earnings compared to upscale venues.
The type and reputation of the establishment often play a significant role in a Chef's compensation package.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Anchorage for Chefs
If you are exploring careers related to the Chef position, consider these similar roles that are common in the hospitality industry:
The above include Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Restaurant Manager positions, which share overlapping skills or supervision roles in the culinary and hospitality field.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chefs in Anchorage
Chefs should be aware of their rights and responsibilities concerning labor laws and taxes at both state and federal levels.
- Information on state labor regulations can be found through the State of Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development website.
- Federal labor laws and employment statistics are available at the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics federal website.