Chef Salary in Colorado Springs, CO
Chefs in Colorado Springs, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $19.27 per hour, which translates to about $770.80 per week, $3,340.13 per month, and $40,081.60 per year.
The job demand for Chefs in Colorado Springs is growing at a rate of 5% per year, indicating a positive trend and increasing opportunities for culinary professionals in this area.
How Much Does a Chef Make in Colorado Springs, CO?
The salary of a Chef in Colorado Springs varies based on experience and expertise. Below is an overview of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.36 | $614.40 | $2,658.40 | $31,948.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.27 | $770.80 | $3,340.13 | $40,081.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $24.17 | $966.80 | $4,193.87 | $50,273.60 |
Do Chefs in Colorado Springs Earn Tips?
Chefs in Colorado Springs generally do not rely on tips as a significant part of their income. However, in some upscale or fine dining establishments, they may receive some tips or bonuses, but this is typically less common than for front-of-house staff.
Chef Salary in Colorado Springs vs. National Average
Nationally, Chefs earn an average of about $19.27 per hour, equating to around $40,081.60 per year.
This means that Chefs in Colorado Springs earn roughly in line with the national average, reflecting the city's balanced cost of living and culinary market demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Colorado Springs for Chefs
Nearby areas offer some variation in salary for Chefs:
- Downtown: $20.50 per hour
- Northgate: $21.00 per hour
Chefs working in Northgate and Downtown may enjoy higher pay than the city average, likely due to the concentration of higher-end dining establishments.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in Colorado Springs?
The salary of a Chef in Colorado Springs is influenced by several key factors:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: Chefs with advanced skills or specialized expertise often command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Working in luxury hotels or fine dining restaurants typically offers better pay than casual dining or fast food settings.
- Education and Certifications: Formal culinary education and certifications such as ServSafe or Certified Executive Chef credentials can boost earning potential.
- Management Responsibilities: Chefs who take on supervisory or kitchen management roles tend to earn more.
- Local Demand and Competition: Areas with a stronger demand for high-quality culinary services often provide higher salaries.
How To Become a Chef in Colorado Springs
Becoming a Chef in Colorado Springs involves several important steps:
- Complete Culinary Training: Schools like Pikes Peak Community College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive training with practical kitchen experience.
- Take Culinary Courses: Colorado Mountain College Culinary Institute provides courses ranging from basic skills to advanced techniques.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Completing programs such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification is crucial for kitchen safety compliance.
- Advanced Certifications: For career advancement, certifications like Certified Executive Chef (CEC) demonstrate expertise and leadership.
- Gain Hands-on Experience: Working in different kitchens and roles is essential to develop a broad skill set.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Colorado Springs
Notable employers in Colorado Springs seeking skilled Chefs include:
- The Broadmoor
- Garden of the Gods Resort and Club
- Cheyenne Mountain Resort
Establishments That Chefs in Colorado Springs Work At
Chefs in Colorado Springs can be found in a variety of dining establishments:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These venues usually offer the highest salaries due to the demand for culinary excellence.
- Hotels and Resorts: Large hospitality venues such as resorts provide stable employment and opportunities for advancement.
- Casual Dining: These establishments provide regular employment but typically offer moderate salaries.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: While the work can be fast-paced, salaries in these places tend to be on the lower end.
The type of establishment significantly impacts the Chef’s salary, with upscale dining and luxury resorts paying the most.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Colorado Springs for Chefs
If you are exploring similar culinary roles, consider these related positions:
The roles of Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Restaurant Manager share many responsibilities with Chefs and may provide varied paths for career development.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chefs in Colorado Springs
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is important for Chefs operating in Colorado Springs.
- Refer to the Federal Department of Labor website for comprehensive information on labor laws and employment standards.
- Visit the State of Colorado's official website for details on state-specific labor regulations and resources.