Chef Salary in Atlanta, GA
Chefs in Atlanta, GA, in 2025, earn approximately $24.10 per hour, which translates to about $964.00 per week, $4,177.33 per month, and $50,128.00 per year.
The demand for Chefs in Atlanta is growing steadily with a 5% increase per year, indicating a healthy job market and rising opportunities for culinary professionals in the region.
How Much Does a Chef Make in Atlanta, GA?
The salary of a Chef in Atlanta varies based on experience and employer, but here is an overview of earnings at different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $23.00 | $920.00 | $3,973.33 | $47,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $31.00 | $1,240.00 | $5,373.33 | $64,480.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $41.00 | $1,640.00 | $7,073.33 | $84,320.00 |
Do Chefs in Atlanta Earn Tips?
Chefs generally do not earn tips as their work is typically behind the scenes and not directly customer-facing. Their income primarily comes from salary or wages instead of tips.
Chef Salary in Atlanta vs. National Average
Nationally, Chefs earn an average of around $19.59 per hour or about $40,747.20 per year.
In comparison, Chefs in Atlanta earn a higher hourly rate of about $24.10 and annual salary of $50,128.00, which reflects regional demand and cost of living factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Atlanta for Chefs
Nearby neighborhoods offer competitive salaries for Chefs:
- Buckhead: $32.00 per hour
- Midtown: $30.00 per hour
Working in Buckhead or Midtown may provide opportunities for higher pay compared to other parts of Atlanta.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in Atlanta?
Experience and Skill Level: Chefs with extensive culinary training and years of kitchen experience earn considerably more.
Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants, hotels, and catering companies often pay higher wages than casual dining or fast-casual venues.
Specializations: Expertise in certain cuisines or culinary techniques, like pastry or sous vide, may command a premium.
Management Responsibilities: Chefs who oversee kitchen staff and operations usually have higher earnings.
Education and Certifications: Culinary degrees or certifications like Certified Executive Chef (CEC) contribute to better pay prospects.
How To Become a Chef in Atlanta
Starting a career as a Chef in Atlanta can be achieved by following these steps:
- Complete Culinary Education: Enroll in respected programs such as Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts or Atlanta Technical College Culinary Arts Program for comprehensive culinary training.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like ServSafe are essential to demonstrate knowledge of food safety and handling.
- Gain Kitchen Experience: Work in entry-level kitchen roles to develop skills and advance towards Chef opportunities.
- Pursue Advanced Certifications: Aim for designations like Certified Executive Chef (CEC) to highlight expertise and leadership abilities.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Atlanta
Several prestigious employers in Atlanta that frequently hire Chefs include:
- The Ritz-Carlton Atlanta
- Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta
- The Capital Grille
Establishments That Chefs in Atlanta Work At
Chefs in Atlanta find employment opportunities at a variety of establishments such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These establishments generally offer higher salaries reflecting the skill and presentation required.
- Hotels and Resorts: Large hotels often employ chefs for diverse dining options, offering stable pay and benefits.
- Catering Services: Chefs in catering may have varied schedules but can earn higher hourly wages for event-based work.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: These venues may offer entry-level opportunities but typically lower pay than upscale locations.
The salary differences between these types of establishments depend on the prestige, volume, and service style.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Atlanta for Chefs
If considering similar career paths, here are some related roles to Chefs:
These include Executive Chef, Head Chef, and Restaurant Manager positions that share culinary and managerial responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chefs in Atlanta
Chefs should be informed about labor regulations and tax responsibilities at both federal and state levels.
- For federal labor laws and employment standards, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- State-specific labor law information for Georgia can be found on the Georgia Department of Labor website.