Chef Salary in Portland, OR
Chefs in Portland, OR, in 2025, earn approximately $21.99 per hour, which translates to about $879.60 per week, $3,811.60 per month, and $45,739.20 per year.
The demand for Chefs in Portland is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy outlook for culinary professionals in this vibrant city.
How Much Does a Chef Make in Portland, OR?
The salary of a Chef in Portland varies depending on experience, skill level, and the type of establishment. Below is a breakdown by experience level:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.05 | $562.00 | $2,429.33 | $29,224.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $21.99 | $879.60 | $3,811.60 | $45,739.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $37.63 | $1,505.20 | $6,506.93 | $78,270.40 |
Do Chefs in Portland Earn Tips?
Chefs typically do not earn tips as their role is focused on preparing food rather than direct customer service. Their income mostly comes from their salary or wages.
Chef Salary in Portland vs. National Average
Nationally, Chefs earn an average of around $19.64 per hour, equating to about $40,851.20 per year.
Compared to the national average, Chefs in Portland earn a higher hourly rate of $21.99 and an annual salary of $45,739.20, reflecting the city’s culinary demand and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Portland for Chefs
Some neighborhoods near Portland offer higher wages for Chefs:
- Downtown Portland: $22.50 per hour
- Pearl District: $23.00 per hour
These areas tend to have upscale restaurants and establishments that may provide better compensation for experienced culinary professionals.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in Portland?
Several factors influence a Chef’s salary in Portland:
- Experience and Skill Level: Chefs with extensive culinary experience and specialty skills can command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in fine dining or trendy restaurants often pays more compared to casual dining spots.
- Educational Background: Having formal culinary education or certifications can enhance earning potential.
- Reputation and Network: Well-regarded Chefs with strong professional connections often have access to higher-paying roles.
- Shift and Hours Worked: Chefs working nights, weekends, or longer hours may receive shift differentials or overtime pay.
How To Become a Chef in Portland
Starting a career as a Chef in Portland involves a mix of education, training, and experience:
- Formal Culinary Education: Consider enrolling in programs like the Oregon Culinary Institute, which offers comprehensive culinary arts and baking & pastry programs with hands-on training.
- Community College Programs: Portland Community College Culinary Arts Program provides a two-year Associate of Applied Science degree focusing on practical skills and industry knowledge.
- Food Safety Certification: Obtaining the ServSafe Food Manager Certification is highly recommended, ensuring knowledge of food safety practices widely required by employers.
- Advanced Certification: Pursuing the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) credential through the American Culinary Federation validates skill and experience at a higher professional level.
- Gain Experience: Start in entry-level kitchen roles such as prep cook or line cook to build essential culinary skills and progress up the ranks.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Portland
Several notable organizations frequently hire Chefs in Portland:
- Urban Restaurant Group
- Amaterra
- New Seasons Market
Establishments That Chefs in Portland Work At
Chefs in Portland find opportunities across diverse culinary settings:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These establishments offer higher salaries due to their upscale menus and clientele.
- Casual Dining: Wages may be moderate but often come with more regular hours.
- Fast Casual and Cafe Kitchens: Earnings tend to be on the lower side but can provide good starting points for newer Chefs.
- Hotels and Catering Companies: Larger institutions may offer steady work and competitive benefits, along with potentially higher pay.
The specific type of workplace strongly affects salary ranges within the Chef profession.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Portland for Chef
If you’re exploring similar roles in the culinary field, here are some related careers worth considering:
These include Head Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Restaurant Manager positions, all with overlapping skills and different salary levels.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chefs in Portland
Chefs in Portland should be aware of relevant labor regulations and tax requirements to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- State labor laws and resources can be found at the Official website of the State of Oregon.
- For federal labor standards, visit the U.S. Department of Labor's official website.