Chef Salary in Kansas City, MO
Chefs in Kansas City, MO, in 2025, earn approximately $22.50 per hour, which translates to about $900.00 per week, $3,900.00 per month, and $46,800.00 per year.
The demand for Chefs in Kansas City is growing steadily at about 6% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities and expansion within the culinary sector of the area.
How Much Does a Chef Make in Kansas City, MO?
The salary of a Chef in Kansas City varies by experience and skill level, providing a range for different career stages.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $22.50 | $900.00 | $3,900.00 | $46,800.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $28.00 | $1,120.00 | $4,853.33 | $58,240.00 |
Do Chefs in Kansas City Earn Tips?
Chefs generally do not earn tips as their work is primarily behind the scenes in food preparation, rather than direct customer service. Their earnings primarily come from their hourly wage or salary.
Chef Salary in Kansas City vs. National Average
Nationally, Chefs earn an average of around $24.00 per hour, translating to about $49,920.00 per year.
Compared to the national average, Chefs in Kansas City earn slightly less at about $22.50 per hour and $46,800.00 annually. This difference is influenced by regional cost of living and local demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Kansas City for Chefs
Nearby areas show variability in pay rates for Chefs:
- Downtown: $24.00 per hour
- Country Club Plaza: $25.50 per hour
Chefs working in areas like Country Club Plaza may find higher wages than those in Downtown, reflecting different market demands and clientele.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in Kansas City?
Several factors impact the salary of a Chef in Kansas City:
- Experience and Expertise: More seasoned Chefs with specialized skills can command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants typically offer higher salaries compared to fast casual or casual dining.
- Certifications: Possessing culinary certifications like the Certified Executive Chef (CEC) can increase salary prospects.
- Responsibilities and Role: Executive Chefs or Head Chefs usually earn more than line cooks or Commis Chefs.
- Location Within City: Working in upscale or busy districts often yields better compensation.
How To Become a Chef in Kansas City
Launching a career as a Chef in Kansas City involves several steps to build skills and credentials:
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Consider local educational opportunities like Johnson County Community College Culinary Arts Program, which offers an Associate of Applied Science degree in Culinary Arts with hands-on training.
- Gain Practical Experience: Building expertise through internships and apprenticeships, such as those at Kansas City Kansas Community College Culinary Arts Program, is essential.
- Obtain Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Manager Certification and Certified Executive Chef (CEC) credential enhance your qualifications and marketability.
- Develop Key Skills: Mastering kitchen management, menu planning, and leadership skills contribute significantly to career advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Kansas City
Some notable employers actively hiring Chefs in Kansas City include:
- The American Restaurant
- Bluestem
- Gram & Dun
Establishments That Chefs in Kansas City Work At
Chefs in Kansas City typically work in a variety of establishments, and these can influence earnings:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Offer the highest salaries due to complex menus and higher customer expectations.
- Casual Dining: Provide moderate wages with a more relaxed cooking environment.
- Fast Casual and Cafés: These tend to pay lower wages but can offer more flexible schedules.
- Hotels and Resorts: May offer competitive salaries along with additional benefits.
The prestige and size of the establishment, along with client demographics, play important roles in salary variations.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Kansas City for Chefs
If you're interested in careers similar to being a Chef, consider options such as:
These include Executive Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Restaurant Manager positions, offering career pathways with overlapping skills and varying salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chefs in Kansas City
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is essential for Chefs working in Kansas City.
- For federal labor regulations and employment rights, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Missouri-specific labor laws and worker protections can be found on the Missouri Department of Labor website.
- Local regulations and business resources are available through the Kansas City government website.