Chef Salary in Honolulu, HI
Chefs in Honolulu, HI, in 2025, earn approximately $24.64 per hour, which translates to about $985.60 per week, $4,270.93 per month, and $51,251.20 per year.
The demand for Chefs in Honolulu is growing at about 5% per year, indicating a positive trend in the job market for culinary professionals in this region.
How Much Does a Chef Make in Honolulu, HI?
The salary of a Chef in Honolulu varies depending on experience and the establishment, with entry-level to top earners covering a range of pay levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $19.67 | $786.80 | $3,408.53 | $40,902.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $24.64 | $985.60 | $4,270.93 | $51,251.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $30.87 | $1,234.80 | $5,334.40 | $64,209.60 |
Do Chefs in Honolulu Earn Tips?
Chefs typically do not earn direct tips as their work happens primarily in the kitchen rather than front of house. However, in some establishments, they might receive bonuses or tip pooling arrangements, but this is not common. Most of their income relies on salary or hourly wages.
Chef Salary in Honolulu vs. National Average
Nationally, Chefs earn an average of around $19.71 per hour, which amounts to about $40,996.80 per year.
Compared to the national average, Chefs in Honolulu earn a higher median hourly rate of $24.64 and a yearly salary of about $51,251.20.
This increase likely reflects the higher cost of living in Honolulu and demand for culinary talent in the vibrant hospitality sector.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Honolulu for Chefs
Nearby areas offering some of the highest pay for Chefs include:
- Waikīkī: $76.87 per hour
- Kailua: $76.82 per hour
These locations are popular tourist destinations with upscale dining venues where Chefs can command significantly higher wages.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in Honolulu?
Several important factors affect how much a Chef can earn in Honolulu, including:
- Experience and Expertise: Chefs with more years in the field or specialized culinary skills often receive higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants, luxury hotels, and resorts generally offer better compensation than casual dining or fast food outlets.
- Certifications and Education: Formal training and recognized culinary certifications can boost salary prospects significantly.
- Responsibility Level: Executive Chefs and Head Chefs typically earn more due to their leadership and management duties.
- Reputation and Network: Renowned Chefs with strong professional networks may receive higher salaries or unique opportunities.
How To Become a Chef in Honolulu
To start a career as a Chef in Honolulu, consider the following steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Arts Programs: Institutions like Kapiʻolani Community College Culinary Arts Program and Leeward Community College Culinary Arts Program provide essential training and hands-on experience.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are standard requirements for maintaining health and safety compliance.
- Earn Advanced Credentials: Pursuing certifications like the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) Certification from the American Culinary Federation can enhance credibility and job prospects.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working in different kitchen roles helps to develop skills and understand culinary operations.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Honolulu
Honolulu’s culinary industry includes prominent employers such as:
- Hotels and Resorts of Halekulani
- The Kahala Hotel & Resort
- Outrigger Hotels and Resorts
Establishments That Chefs in Honolulu Work At
Chefs in Honolulu commonly work across various types of establishments, including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Typically offer higher salaries due to intricate menu demands and prestige.
- Hotels and Resorts: Renowned for providing competitive pay and benefits.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: These offer stable employment but generally lower wages compared to upscale venues.
- Catering and Event Services: Pay may vary based on event scale and clientele.
The type of establishment heavily influences salary, with luxury and high-volume venues typically paying the most.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Honolulu for Chefs
If you are interested in related roles within the hospitality industry, consider these similar careers:
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chefs in Honolulu
Chefs working in Honolulu should be familiar with several layers of labor laws and tax regulations:
- Consult the Federal Department of Labor website for comprehensive federal employment laws.
- Hawaii’s specific employment standards and worker rights can be found at the State of Hawaii’s Department of Labor and Industrial Relations website.
- Local regulations and services provided by the City and County of Honolulu are detailed on the official city website.