Chef Salary in Cleveland, OH
Chefs in Cleveland, OH, in 2026, earn approximately $19.79 per hour, which translates to about $791.60 per week, $3,430.27 per month, and $41,163.20 per year.
The demand for Chefs in Cleveland is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increased job opportunities in the culinary field annually.
How Much Does a Chef Make in Cleveland, OH?
The salary of a Chef in Cleveland varies with experience and expertise. Below is an overview of typical earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.60 | $424.00 | $1,840.00 | $22,080.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.79 | $791.60 | $3,430.27 | $41,163.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $36.95 | $1,478.00 | $6,386.67 | $76,856.00 |
Do Chefs in Cleveland Earn Tips?
Chefs typically do not earn tips as their work is behind the scenes in the kitchen. However, in some establishments, they may receive bonus incentives or profit sharing, but direct tipping is generally uncommon.
Chef Salary in Cleveland vs. National Average
Nationally, Chefs earn an average of about $19.79 per hour or $41,163.20 per year.
Chefs in Cleveland earn on par with the national averages, reflecting regional parity in culinary salaries.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Cleveland for Chefs
When considering nearby cities, Chef salaries can differ:
- Westlake: $30.47 per hour
- Lakewood: $28.85 per hour
Chefs working in Westlake enjoy some of the highest wages near Cleveland, while Lakewood also offers competitive pay.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in Cleveland?
The earnings of a Chef in Cleveland can be influenced by several important factors:
- Experience and Level of Expertise: More experienced Chefs with refined skills command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and hotels typically offer better pay compared to casual dining or fast casual venues.
- Specialized Skills: Expertise in specific cuisines or advanced culinary techniques can boost earnings.
- Education and Certifications: Culinary degrees or certifications can validate professional skills and impact salary.
- Position Within Kitchen Hierarchy: Executive or Head Chefs usually earn more than line or commis Chefs.
How To Become a Chef in Cleveland
Becoming a Chef in Cleveland usually requires a combination of training, certification, and hands-on experience.
Many aspiring Chefs pursue formal education through programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Cuyahoga Community College, which offers comprehensive training in culinary techniques, kitchen management, and food safety. Additionally, the Hospitality Management Program at Cleveland State University provides valuable education in hospitality operations, including culinary management and service.
Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are important for understanding food safety requirements, while advanced certifications like the Certified Executive Chef (CEC) from the American Culinary Federation can elevate a Chef’s credentials and salary potential.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Cleveland
Several prominent establishments are known to hire skilled Chefs in Cleveland:
- Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse
- The Greenhouse Tavern
- Lola Bistro
Establishments That Chefs in Cleveland Work At
Chefs work in a range of establishments, including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Typically offer the highest salaries due to complexity and prestige.
- Casual Dining: Moderate pay with often steady work hours.
- Hotels and Resorts: Can provide structured salaried positions with benefits.
- Fast Casual/Eateries: Usually entry-level opportunities with lower pay.
The type of establishment strongly affects salary and job responsibilities for Chefs.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Cleveland for Chef
If you're exploring careers similar to Chef, here are some related roles:
These include Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Restaurant Manager roles that involve overlapping culinary and leadership skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chef in Cleveland
Chefs in Cleveland need to be aware of labor laws and tax rules at the federal, state, and city levels.
- For federal regulations, visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations.
- Ohio state information is available at the State of Ohio's Department of Job and Family Services website.
- The City of Cleveland's official website provides local employment resources.