Chef Salary in Hampton, VA
Chefs in Hampton, VA, in 2025, earn approximately $29.30 per hour, which translates to about $1,172.00 per week, $5,078.67 per month, and $60,944.00 per year.
The demand for Chefs in Hampton is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the culinary industry within the region.
How Much Does a Chef Make in Hampton, VA?
The salary of a Chef in Hampton varies depending on experience and skills. Here's a general breakdown by experience level:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $25.90 | $1,036.00 | $4,483.33 | $53,872.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $29.30 | $1,172.00 | $5,078.67 | $60,944.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $33.30 | $1,332.00 | $5,758.00 | $69,264.00 |
Do Chefs in Hampton Earn Tips?
Chefs typically do not earn tips directly as part of their compensation, as tipping usually goes to front-of-house staff such as servers and bartenders. However, in some smaller or casual dining establishments, Chefs may receive occasional tips, but it's not a reliable or significant part of their income.
Chef Salary in Hampton, VA vs. National Average
Nationally, Chefs earn an average of around $29.30 per hour, translating to about $60,944 per year.
Chefs in Hampton earn very close to this national average, making approximately $29.30 per hour and $60,944 annually. This indicates that Hampton offers competitive wages relative to the broader U.S. market for this role.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Hampton for Chefs
Nearby areas tend to offer slightly different pay rates for Chefs:
- Downtown: $30.50 per hour
- Phoebus: $31.00 per hour
Chefs working in Phoebus may earn somewhat higher salaries compared to Hampton itself, reflecting local differences in demand and establishment types.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in Hampton, VA?
Several key factors affect a Chef's salary:
- Experience and Skills: Chefs with more years in the kitchen and specialized culinary skills generally command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale restaurants, hotels, or resorts often offers better compensation compared to casual or fast-food environments.
- Education and Certifications: Formal culinary education and professional certifications can improve earning potential.
- Position and Responsibilities: Seniority such as Executive Chef roles often come with increased salaries.
- Local Market Demand: Economic conditions and restaurant density in Hampton and surrounding areas play a role.
How To Become a Chef in Hampton, VA
Becoming a Chef in Hampton involves several steps to build the necessary skills and credentials:
- Complete Culinary Education: Programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Thomas Nelson Community College offer comprehensive training in culinary techniques and kitchen management, providing a solid foundation.
- Pursue Advanced Culinary Training: Institutes such as the Culinary Institute of Virginia provide hands-on, advanced culinary education valuable for career advancement.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe Certification ensure knowledge of critical food safety standards.
- Earning Professional Recognition: Credentials like Certified Executive Chef (CEC) demonstrate expertise and can elevate a Chef's career prospects.
- Gain Practical Experience: Starting in entry-level kitchen roles and working upwards reinforces skills and experience.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Hampton, VA
- McDonald’s
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Chefs in Hampton, VA Work At
Chefs in Hampton find employment across a variety of establishments, including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Offer higher salaries due to demand for exceptional culinary skills and presentation.
- Casual and Fast Casual Eateries: These might offer moderate wages but provide opportunities for gaining diverse experience.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often pay competitive salaries and provide stable employment.
- Corporate and Institutional Kitchens: Such as those in hospitals or schools, may provide steady work with differing pay scales.
The nature and prestige of the establishment greatly impact earnings, with high-end venues typically paying more.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Hampton, VA for Chefs
Those interested in culinary careers related to Chefs might also consider these roles:
These include Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Restaurant Manager positions, which share overlapping skills and career paths with Chefs.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chefs in Hampton, VA
Chefs should be familiar with labor regulations and tax obligations to protect their rights and manage finances.
- Visit the federal Department of Labor website for comprehensive information on labor laws in the United States.
- For Virginia-specific laws and employment regulations, the Virginia government website is a great resource.