Chef Salary in Cary, NC
Chefs in Cary, NC, in 2025, earn approximately $22.01 per hour, which translates to about $880.40 per week, $3,815.07 per month, and $45,780.80 per year.
The demand for Chefs in Cary is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy outlook for culinary professionals in this vibrant North Carolina city.
How Much Does a Chef Make in Cary, NC?
The salary of a Chef in Cary can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is an overview of earnings at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $21.36 | $854.40 | $3,696.00 | $44,390.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $22.01 | $880.40 | $3,815.07 | $45,780.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.67 | $906.80 | $3,886.93 | $46,953.60 |
Do Chefs in Cary Earn Tips?
Chefs in Cary generally do not earn tips as part of their compensation. Their income primarily comes from their salary or wages rather than customer gratuities. Tips are more commonly earned by front-of-house staff.
Chef Salary in Cary vs. National Average
Nationally, Chefs earn an average of around $19.65 per hour, which amounts to approximately $40,872 per year.
Compared to the national average, Chefs in Cary earn a higher wage at about $22.01 per hour and $45,780.80 annually. This difference reflects the region’s favorable job market and cost of living adjustments.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Cary for Chefs
Nearby regions offer slightly varied salary prospects for Chefs:
- Downtown Cary: $23.50 per hour
- Preston: $24.00 per hour
Chefs working in Preston can expect some of the highest pay rates in the area, while Downtown Cary also offers competitive compensation.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in Cary?
Several key factors can influence how much a Chef earns in Cary:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Chefs command higher wages due to their skill set and ability to manage kitchens.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels often results in better pay compared to casual dining or fast-casual spots.
- Specialized Culinary Skills: Chefs with specialties in particular cuisines or techniques may earn more.
- Managerial Responsibilities: Chefs overseeing kitchen staff or large operations can expect a salary premium.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Cary’s growing food scene and local economic factors also play a role in wage levels.
How To Become a Chef in Cary
Launching a career as a Chef in Cary involves several important steps:
- Education and Training: Enroll in programs like the Wake Technical Community College Culinary Arts Program which offers an Associate degree providing both hands-on and theoretical knowledge.
- Comprehensive Culinary Education: Consider attending The Chef's Academy at Raleigh-Durham for focused training on classical and modern cooking techniques.
- Food Safety Certification: Obtaining the ServSafe Food Handler Certification is essential to demonstrate knowledge of safe food handling practices.
- Advanced Certifications: For chefs aiming at leadership positions, the Certified Executive Chef (CEC) credential is a recognized standard.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Cary
Several renowned establishments in Cary actively seek skilled Chefs, including:
- The Umstead Hotel and Spa
- Herons Restaurant
- Academy Street Bistro
Establishments That Chefs in Cary Work At
Chefs in Cary find opportunities across diverse culinary venues such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Often offering the highest pay due to the skill level required and volume of upscale clientele.
- Hotels and Resorts: Kitchens in these establishments provide steady employment with added benefits and competitive wages.
- Casual and Fast Casual Eatery Kitchens: While generally lower-paying, these offer valuable experience and entry points for many Chefs.
- Catering Services and Private Chefs: Specialized positions that may vary significantly in pay depending on clientele and contracts.
The type and prestige of the establishment significantly influence the **salary potential** for Chefs in Cary.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Cary for Chef
For those interested in roles closely related to Chef, here are some career paths to consider:
These include Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Restaurant Manager positions, which entail related responsibilities and salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chefs in Cary
Understanding local and federal labor laws is crucial for Chefs to ensure proper working conditions and compliance in Cary.
- For federal labor laws and regulations, refer to the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The North Carolina state government website provides information on state-specific employment laws.
- Local regulations and resources specific to Cary are available on the Town of Cary official website.