Chef Salary in Charleston, SC
Chefs in Charleston, SC, in 2025, earn approximately $24.78 per hour, which translates to about $991.20 per week, $4,295.20 per month, and $51,542.40 per year.
The demand for chefs in Charleston is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook and increasing opportunities within the city's thriving culinary scene.
How Much Does a Chef Make in Charleston, SC?
The salary of a Chef in Charleston can vary based on experience and skills. Below is an overview of Chef pay across different experience levels to help gauge earnings potential in this vibrant city.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $19.04 | $761.60 | $3,292.27 | $39,603.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $24.78 | $991.20 | $4,295.20 | $51,542.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $32.25 | $1,290.00 | $5,575.00 | $66,960.00 |
Do Chefs in Charleston Earn Tips?
Chefs generally do not earn regular tips as their work typically happens behind the scenes. However, in some upscale or smaller establishments, chefs might receive occasional tips or bonuses, but these are not a guaranteed part of their income.
Chef Salary in Charleston vs. National Average
Nationally, Chefs earn an average of around $19.67 per hour, which translates to about $40,913.60 annually.
Chefs in Charleston earn a higher average hourly wage of $24.78 per hour, or about $51,542.40 annually, reflecting the city's growing culinary demand and higher living costs compared to national averages.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Charleston for Chefs
Chefs seeking higher pay near Charleston might consider nearby cities such as:
- Hilton Head Island: $27.50 per hour
- Lexington: $24.06 per hour
Hilton Head Island stands out as a particularly lucrative area for Chefs due to its busy resort and tourism industry.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in Charleston?
Several factors can influence how much a Chef earns in Charleston, SC:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More experienced Chefs with specialized skills or those who can manage large kitchens typically earn more.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale restaurants or luxury hotels tends to offer higher pay compared to fast casual or small diners.
- Education and Certifications: Completion of culinary programs or certifications like ServSafe and Certified Executive Chef (CEC) can improve salary prospects.
- Reputation and Specialization: Chefs known for certain cuisines or specialties often command better earnings.
- Hours and Shifts: Chefs willing to work evenings, weekends, or holidays may receive shift premiums or higher pay.
How To Become a Chef in Charleston
To pursue a career as a Chef in Charleston, consider the following steps:
- Complete Culinary Education: Institutions such as the Culinary Institute of Charleston and Trident Technical College offer comprehensive programs that focus on both practical skills and industry knowledge.
- Obtain Industry Certifications: Certifications like ServSafe Certification ensure knowledge of food safety, and earning the Certified Executive Chef (CEC) credential can demonstrate culinary competence and leadership abilities.
- Gain Hands-On Experience: Start as a line cook or kitchen assistant to build foundational cooking skills and move up through the kitchen hierarchy.
- Network and Seek Mentorship: Developing relationships within Charleston’s culinary community can open doors to better job opportunities and career advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Charleston
Charleston hosts a variety of renowned restaurants that frequently seek skilled Chefs, including:
- The Ordinary
- Husk Restaurant
- FIG Charleston
Establishments That Chefs in Charleston Work At
Chefs in Charleston typically work in diverse settings, each influencing salary and responsibilities differently:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Usually offer the highest pay with opportunities to specialize in gourmet cuisine.
- Casual and Fast Casual Eateries: These settings might have more modest salaries but provide valuable experience.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often provide higher salaries and benefits due to the scale and clientele.
- Catering and Event Companies: May offer varying pay depending on event size and frequency.
The type and prestige of the establishment can significantly impact a Chef’s salary and career growth.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Charleston for Chefs
Chefs may find it useful to explore related roles that leverage similar skills and offer diverse career paths.
These similar careers include Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Restaurant Manager positions, offering varied challenges and salary prospects within the hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chefs in Charleston
Chefs in Charleston should be aware of both federal and state labor laws affecting their employment and income.
- For federal regulations, the U.S. Department of Labor website provides comprehensive information on wage standards, overtime, and workplace rights.
- Specific to South Carolina, the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation offers resources on labor laws and licensing requirements applicable to Chefs and other workers.