Chef Salary in Palm Coast, FL
Chefs in Palm Coast, FL, in 2025, earn approximately $18.25 per hour, which translates to about $730.00 per week, $3,163.33 per month, and $37,960.00 per year.
The demand for Chefs in Palm Coast is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the local culinary industry.
How Much Does a Chef Make in Palm Coast, FL?
The salary of a Chef in Palm Coast varies depending on experience level and establishment, but here's a breakdown of typical earnings.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $17.17 | $686.80 | $2,967.47 | $35,579.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.25 | $730.00 | $3,163.33 | $37,960.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.40 | $776.00 | $3,352.00 | $40,352.00 |
Do Chefs in Palm Coast Earn Tips?
Chefs generally do not earn tips as a significant portion of their income. Tips tend to go primarily to front-of-house staff like servers and bartenders. However, some chefs working in smaller or specialty dining establishments might receive small gratuities occasionally.
Chef Salary in Palm Coast vs. National Average
Nationally, Chefs earn an average of around $16.00 per hour and approximately $33,280 per year.
In comparison, Chefs in Palm Coast earn a higher hourly wage of about $18.25 per hour and an annual salary of $37,960, suggesting Palm Coast offers more competitive pay relative to the national average.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Palm Coast for Chefs
Nearby areas offer varying pay rates for Chefs:
- Hammock Dunes: $27.14 per hour
- Pine Lakes: $18.50 per hour
Chefs working in Hammock Dunes tend to earn significantly more than other nearby locations, reflecting the area's higher cost of living and upscale dining options.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in Palm Coast?
Several factors influence how much a Chef can earn in Palm Coast:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Chefs or those with specialized culinary skills command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants, resorts, or exclusive clubs typically offers better pay than casual dining or fast food establishments.
- Management Responsibility: Chefs with supervisory roles or kitchen management duties generally receive higher compensation.
- Education and Certification: Culinary degrees or food safety certifications can positively impact earning potential.
- Location and Demand: Salaries can fluctuate based on local demand, cost of living, and competition among employers.
How To Become a Chef in Palm Coast
Starting a career as a Chef in Palm Coast involves several important steps:
- Complete a Culinary Arts Program: Consider enrolling in programs such as the Professional Culinary Arts & Hospitality at First Coast Technical College, a 1,200-hour curriculum that covers essential culinary skills and management training.
- Earn Food Safety Certification: Obtain credentials like the ServSafe Manager Certification to demonstrate knowledge of food safety standards, often required by employers.
- Gain Practical Experience: Work in entry-level kitchen roles to build skills and advance to Chef positions.
- Develop Specialized Skills: Focus on areas such as baking, pastry arts, or international cuisines to increase employability.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Palm Coast
If you are looking for employment as a Chef in Palm Coast, some of the top employers include:
- Hammock Dunes Club
- Hammock Beach Resort
- Pine Lakes Golf Club
Establishments That Chefs in Palm Coast Work At
Chefs in Palm Coast work in diverse food service environments, such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These venues often provide the highest salaries due to the skill level required and customer expectations.
- Resorts and Hotels: Offering a steady workload and competitive pay, especially for experienced Chefs.
- Country Clubs and Golf Clubs: Positions here may offer better benefits and salaries due to the exclusive clientele.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Generally offer lower pay but can provide valuable experience, especially for entry-level Chefs.
The type of establishment strongly influences the earnings and career growth opportunities available to a Chef.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Palm Coast for Chef
If you’re interested in roles related to the Chef position, you might also consider:
These include Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Restaurant Manager—roles that share culinary and management expertise.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chef in Palm Coast
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is crucial for Chefs in Palm Coast to protect their rights and manage finances effectively.
- For federal labor laws and employment information, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For state-specific labor regulations, see the State of Florida's official website.