Chef Salary in Fayetteville, AR
Chefs in Fayetteville, AR, in 2025, earn approximately $18.29 per hour, which translates to about $731.60 per week, $3,170.27 per month, and $38,043.20 per year.
The demand for Chefs in Fayetteville is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and expanding opportunities in the culinary industry in this region.
How Much Does a Chef Make in Fayetteville, AR?
The salary of a Chef in Fayetteville varies based on experience and skill level. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings at different stages of a cook's career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.24 | $529.60 | $2,291.47 | $27,459.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.29 | $731.60 | $3,170.27 | $38,043.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $25.26 | $1,010.40 | $4,374.13 | $52,540.80 |
Do Chefs in Fayetteville, AR Earn Tips?
Chefs generally do not earn tips as their work is primarily behind the scenes preparing food. Most of their income comes from their base salary or hourly wages rather than gratuities.
Chef Salary in Fayetteville, AR vs. National Average
The national average salary for a Chef is around $19.68 per hour, which equates to approximately $40,934.40 per year.
Compared to the national figures, Chefs in Fayetteville, AR earn slightly less, with an average hourly rate of $18.29 and annual income of about $38,043.20.
This difference may be influenced by the lower cost of living and local market conditions in Fayetteville.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Fayetteville for Chefs
Nearby areas offer slightly varied pay rates for Chefs:
- Downtown Fayetteville: $19.50 per hour
- Dickson Street: $20.00 per hour
Chefs working around Dickson Street tend to earn more due to the area's vibrant dining scene and upscale establishments.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in Fayetteville, AR?
Several factors impact how much a Chef earns in Fayetteville:
- Experience Level: Chefs with more years of cooking and kitchen management experience command higher wages.
- Skills and Specializations: Expertise in certain cuisines or pastry arts can increase salary prospects.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants usually pay more than casual or fast-casual eateries.
- Certifications: Culinary credentials and food safety certifications enhance credibility and pay scale.
- Management Responsibilities: Chefs who oversee kitchen staff and operations earn higher salaries.
How To Become a Chef in Fayetteville, AR
To start a career as a Chef in Fayetteville, consider the following steps:
- Complete Culinary Training: Programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Northwest Arkansas Community College offer comprehensive training in cooking techniques, kitchen management, and food safety.
- Pursue Hospitality Education: Courses such as the University of Arkansas Hospitality Management Program provide knowledge in restaurant management and food preparation.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Earning a ServSafe Certification ensures adherence to food safety standards.
- Advance with Professional Certifications: The Certified Executive Chef (CEC) certification recognizes advanced culinary and managerial skills.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Fayetteville, AR
Some notable employers in Fayetteville actively seeking skilled Chefs include:
- The Hive
- Bordinos
- Theo's
- Ella's Table
Establishments That Chefs in Fayetteville, AR Work At
Chefs in Fayetteville find jobs at diverse establishments such as casual dining restaurants, fine dining venues, and catering services.
Fine dining establishments typically offer higher salaries due to their emphasis on quality and presentation, while casual restaurants provide more entry-level opportunities but with somewhat lower pay.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Fayetteville, AR for Chef
If you are interested in roles related to Chef, consider exploring positions that share similar skills and career paths.
These include Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Restaurant Manager—roles often requiring overlapping culinary and leadership abilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chefs in Fayetteville, AR
It is important for Chefs to be familiar with labor laws and tax requirements affecting their employment.
- For federal labor laws and regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The state government website for Arkansas offers local employment resources at arkansas.gov.
- For city-specific regulations and services, check the Fayetteville city official website.