Chef Salary in Columbus, OH
Chefs in Columbus, OH, in 2025, earn approximately $21.04 per hour, which translates to about $841.60 per week, $3,646.93 per month, and $43,763.20 per year.
The demand for Chefs in Columbus is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities and career advancement in the culinary field.
How Much Does a Chef Make in Columbus, OH?
The salary of a Chef in Columbus varies based on experience, skill level, and work setting. Below is a breakdown of typical salary ranges by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.75 | $470.00 | $2,033.33 | $24,440.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $21.04 | $841.60 | $3,646.93 | $43,763.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $37.66 | $1,506.40 | $6,531.47 | $78,332.80 |
Do Chefs in Columbus Earn Tips?
Chefs typically do not earn tips directly as their role focuses on food preparation and kitchen management rather than customer interaction. However, in some establishments, chefs might receive occasional bonuses or gratuities related to special events or team tip pools, but this is not guaranteed.
Chef Salary in Columbus vs. National Average
Nationally, Chefs earn an average of around $19.64 per hour, which equates to approximately $40,851.20 per year.
Compared to these figures, Chefs in Columbus earn a slightly higher hourly wage at $21.04 per hour and a yearly salary around $43,763.20.
This is reflective of the cost of living and demand for culinary professionals in Columbus, which supports competitive salaries.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Columbus for Chefs
Some neighboring areas offer even higher pay for Chefs, such as:
- Downtown: $22.50 per hour
- Short North: $23.00 per hour
Chefs working in these districts often benefit from upscale dining scenes and higher-end establishments, which can drive wages up.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in Columbus?
The salary for a Chef in Columbus may be influenced by various factors, including:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More experienced chefs or those with specialized culinary skills often command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working for fine dining or high-end restaurants usually comes with better salary packages compared to casual or fast-food venues.
- Education and Certifications: Formal culinary education and certifications can enhance earning potential and career prospects.
- Location within Columbus: Chefs in popular and affluent neighborhoods tend to earn more due to the clientele and business volume.
- Management and Leadership Roles: Chefs who take on kitchen management or executive roles generally see higher salaries.
How To Become a Chef in Columbus
Embarking on a career as a Chef in Columbus can be achieved through several practical steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Education Programs: Consider programs such as the Columbus State Community College Culinary Apprenticeship Program, which offers hands-on experience alongside classroom learning.
- Pursue Hospitality Studies: The Ohio State University Hospitality Management Program provides courses in culinary arts and restaurant management.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Nationally recognized certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensure proper food handling knowledge and compliance.
- Advance Through Professional Certifications: Experienced chefs might pursue the Certified Executive Chef (CEC) credential from the American Culinary Federation to boost their credentials.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Columbus
Some well-known employers currently seeking Chefs in Columbus include:
- Cameron Mitchell Restaurants
- Hyde Park Restaurant Group
- The Guild House
Establishments That Chefs in Columbus Work At
Chefs in Columbus find employment across diverse establishments, such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These venues often offer the highest pay and require advanced culinary expertise.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: These establishments pay competitive wages but generally less than upscale restaurants.
- Hotels and Catering Companies: Chefs here benefit from steady work and sometimes attract higher salaries through event-based catering.
- Private Clubs and Resorts: Offering niche culinary experiences, these workplaces might offer premium compensation.
The type and prestige of the establishment significantly affect the earning potential of a Chef in Columbus.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Columbus for Chef
If you are considering roles similar to Chef, you might explore related careers that offer different opportunities in the culinary and hospitality sectors.
The roles of Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Restaurant Manager share aspects of leadership, culinary expertise, and operations management that align closely with the Chef profession.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chefs in Columbus
Chefs working in Columbus should be familiar with relevant labor laws to understand their rights and responsibilities regarding employment and taxation.
- The Federal Department of Labor website offers information on federal labor regulations and workers’ rights.
- The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services provides resources related to employment standards and workforce development.
- The City of Columbus official website contains information on local regulations and services that may impact employment.