Chef Salary in Pasadena, CA
Chefs in Pasadena, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $18.80 per hour, which amounts to about $752.00 per week, $3,258.67 per month, and $39,104.00 per year.
The job demand for Chefs in Pasadena is growing steadily at a rate of 5% per year, indicating positive career prospects and increasing opportunities in the culinary industry locally.
How Much Does a Chef Make in Pasadena, CA?
The salary of a Chef in Pasadena can vary depending on experience, skill level, and type of employer. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings for Chefs at different experience stages.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.96 | $638.40 | $2,758.40 | $33,101.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.80 | $752.00 | $3,258.67 | $39,104.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.15 | $886.00 | $3,823.83 | $45,672.00 |
Do Chefs in Pasadena Earn Tips?
Chefs typically do not earn tips as part of their compensation because their work is usually behind the scenes in the kitchen rather than frontline customer service. Their income mainly consists of wages or salary rather than gratuities.
Chef Salary in Pasadena vs. National Average
Nationally, Chefs earn about $16.60 per hour, which comes to roughly $34,528.00 per year.
Chefs in Pasadena earn more on average, with wages of about $18.80 per hour and $39,104.00 annually, reflecting local market demand, cost of living, and potentially more competitive culinary scenes.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Pasadena for Chefs
Nearby areas to Pasadena offer slightly higher pay for Chefs:
- Old Pasadena: $20.50 per hour
- South Lake Avenue: $21.00 per hour
Chefs working in these nearby upscale or popular neighborhoods might benefit from better compensation correlated with high-end or busy dining establishments.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in Pasadena?
Several factors play a critical role in determining how much a Chef can earn in Pasadena:
- Experience and Expertise: Chefs with more years in the culinary field and specialized skills tend to command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Working in fine dining restaurants, luxury hotels, or specialized catering businesses often offers higher pay than casual eateries.
- Qualifications and Certifications: Advanced culinary degrees or certifications such as Certified Sous Chef (CSC) can boost salary prospects.
- Role and Responsibility: Chefs in leadership roles like Executive Chef typically earn more than line or commis chefs.
- Local Market and Demand: Pasadena’s thriving culinary scene and cost of living influence competitive pay scales.
How To Become a Chef in Pasadena
To pursue a career as a Chef in Pasadena, consider these options:
- Enroll in Culinary Education Programs: Institutions like Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts provide comprehensive training in culinary arts and hospitality management.
- Community College Culinary Programs: Pasadena City College Culinary Arts Program offers foundational and advanced culinary training for aspiring chefs.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification are essential for complying with health regulations and increasing employability.
- Pursue Professional Certifications: Achieving the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) credential from the American Culinary Federation demonstrates professional competency and dedication.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working in kitchens to develop skills and advance in rank is vital.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Pasadena
Several prominent companies and establishments in Pasadena are frequently looking for talented Chefs:
- Panda Restaurant Group
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Ruth's Chris Steak House
- Urban Plates
- CM Ghost Kitchen by Chef Maezaki
Establishments That Chefs in Pasadena Work At
Chefs in Pasadena find employment opportunities in a variety of settings:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These offer higher salaries due to the complexity of menus and prestige.
- Casual and Fast Casual Eateries: Typically pay moderate wages but can offer steady work and opportunities for advancement.
- Hotels and Resort Kitchens: Often pay competitive salaries and may offer additional benefits.
- Catering and Ghost Kitchens: Growing sectors that provide versatile opportunities though wages may vary.
The nature and scale of the establishment significantly influence a Chef’s salary and career potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Pasadena for Chefs
For those interested in careers similar to that of a Chef, the hospitality industry offers related roles that utilize culinary skills:
These include Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Restaurant Manager positions, each with its own skill requirements and earning potential.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chefs in Pasadena
Chefs working in Pasadena should be aware of relevant labor laws and taxation rules to ensure their rights and obligations are met.
- Federal labor laws and regulations can be reviewed at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- California state-specific workplace regulations and labor laws are detailed on the California Department of Industrial Relations site.
- Pasadena local regulations and city-specific labor information are available at the City of Pasadena official website.