Chef Salary in Kansas City, KS
Chefs in Kansas City, KS, in 2025, earn approximately $18.71 per hour, which translates to about $748.40 per week, $3,243.07 per month, and $38,916.80 per year.
The demand for Chefs in Kansas City is growing steadily at about 5% per year, which indicates a positive outlook and increasing opportunities within the culinary industry in this region.
How Much Does a Chef Make in Kansas City, KS?
The salary of a Chef in Kansas City varies by experience and skill level. Below is a general breakdown of typical earnings based on different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.20 | $568.00 | $2,458.67 | $29,536.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.71 | $748.40 | $3,243.07 | $38,916.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $24.64 | $985.60 | $4,263.73 | $51,171.20 |
Do Chefs in Kansas City Earn Tips?
Chefs typically do not earn tips as their role is primarily behind the scenes in the kitchen. Their earnings are mostly based on salary rather than gratuities.
Chef Salary in Kansas City vs. National Average
Nationally, Chefs earn an average of about $18.71 per hour and $38,916.80 annually, which is exactly what Chefs in Kansas City make on average.
This parity suggests that Kansas City remains competitive with the national market in terms of culinary wages, reflecting a balanced supply and demand for Chef roles.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Kansas City for Chefs
Nearby areas offer slightly higher pay for Chefs, including:
- Prairie Village: $21.43 per hour
- Lawrence: $21.30 per hour
These areas may offer enhanced earning potential possibly due to different local economies or culinary markets.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in Kansas City?
Experience is a major factor; Chefs with years of kitchen management or expertise in specific cuisines tend to earn more.
Skills, such as proficiency in culinary techniques, menu development, and leadership, also increase earning potential.
The type of establishment can affect salaries significantly; fine dining restaurants and upscale venues generally pay more than casual or fast-food kitchens.
Other factors include local demand for culinary professionals, certifications, and shift schedules.
How To Become a Chef in Kansas City
Starting a career as a Chef involves a combination of training, certification, and experience.
- Enroll in culinary programs such as the Johnson County Community College Culinary Arts Program or the Metropolitan Community College Culinary Arts Program, which provide hands-on training and essential culinary skills.
- Gain certifications like the ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification to ensure compliance with food safety laws, or the Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation to demonstrate culinary competence.
- Acquire practical experience through apprenticeships or kitchen assistant roles to develop skills on the job.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Kansas City
- US Army
- Stanton County Hospital
- Healthcare Career Advancement Program
Establishments That Chefs in Kansas City Work At
Chefs in Kansas City typically work in a range of establishments including casual dining restaurants, fast-casual chains, fine dining venues, hotels, and institutional kitchens.
The type of establishment influences salary, with upscale restaurants or hotels offering higher pay compared to casual or fast-food settings due to complexity and clientele.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Kansas City for Chefs
If you're exploring careers similar to Chef, consider these related roles that share culinary skills and responsibilities:
These include Head Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Restaurant Manager positions, which offer varying salary ranges and responsibilities within the culinary and hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chefs in Kansas City
Chefs in Kansas City should familiarize themselves with both federal and state labor laws and tax requirements to ensure compliance and protect their rights in the workplace.
- Information on federal labor laws is available through the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For Kansas-specific regulations, visit the State of Kansas official website.