Chef Salary in Reno, NV
Chefs in Reno, NV, in 2026, earn approximately $22.83 per hour, which equates to about $913.20 per week, $3,957.20 per month, and $47,486.40 per year.
The demand for Chefs in Reno is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive trend in job opportunities for culinary professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Chef Make in Reno, NV?
The salary of a Chef in Reno varies based on experience and skill level. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings at different levels in the culinary field.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $18.47 | $738.80 | $3,204.53 | $38,457.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $22.83 | $913.20 | $3,957.20 | $47,486.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $28.22 | $1,128.80 | $4,882.13 | $58,657.60 |
Do Chefs in Reno Earn Tips?
Chefs typically do not earn regular tips as their work is primarily behind the scenes in food preparation. However, in some establishments, especially smaller or upscale ones, Chefs may receive occasional tips or bonuses, but this is not a primary source of income.
Chef Salary in Reno vs. National Average
Nationally, Chefs earn an average of about $19.67 per hour, which amounts to roughly $40,913.60 per year.
Comparing this to Reno, Chefs make a higher average hourly wage at $22.83, and an annual salary of about $47,486.40, which is significantly above the national average. This reflects the local demand and cost of living factors in Reno, NV.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Reno for Chefs
Nearby areas offer competitive salaries for Chefs, including:
- Stateline: $30.80 per hour
- Incline Village: $24.78 per hour
Chefs working in Stateline can expect considerably higher pay, potentially due to its resort and casino industry, whereas Incline Village offers a competitive, though slightly lower, hourly wage.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in Reno?
Several key factors can significantly impact a Chef’s salary in Reno:
- Experience and Skillset: More experienced Chefs, especially those skilled in gourmet or specialized cuisines, can command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Chefs working in upscale restaurants, resorts, or casinos like those in Reno often earn more than those in casual dining or fast food settings.
- Certifications and Education: Holding culinary certifications or completion of formal Culinary Arts programs can increase earning potential.
- Position Level: Head Chefs or Executive Chefs usually earn more than Commis or Line Chefs due to higher responsibilities.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Working evenings, weekends, or holidays may come with premium pay or bonuses.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Reno’s growing hospitality and tourism sectors influence wages and job availability.
How To Become a Chef in Reno
To start a career as a Chef in Reno, consider the following steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Attend programs like the Truckee Meadows Community College Culinary Arts Program which offers hands-on training in modern kitchens, or take specialized courses at the University of Nevada, Reno Extended Studies Culinary Courses.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification or the Nevada Food Manager Certification are essential for working in food establishments and may be required for supervisory roles.
- Gain Practical Experience: Work in kitchens as a cooking assistant or line cook to build skills and progress toward Chef roles.
- Develop Networking and Specialty Skills: Engage with local culinary professionals and learn specialized cuisines or techniques to improve job prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Reno
Some of the major employers seeking skilled Chefs in Reno include:
- Atlantis Casino Resort Spa
- Peppermill Resort Spa Casino
- Grand Sierra Resort and Casino
Establishments That Chefs in Reno Work At
Chefs in Reno typically work in a variety of establishments across the culinary and hospitality industry. These include:
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: These often offer entry-level opportunities and moderate salaries.
- Upscale Dining and Fine Restaurants: These establishments usually pay higher wages due to the demand for culinary expertise.
- Resorts, Casinos, and Hotels: Locations like the Atlantis Casino Resort Spa or Peppermill Resort tend to provide higher salaries and additional benefits.
- Catering Companies: Chefs here may have more flexible hours and the opportunity to specialize in event cuisine.
The type of establishment influences the level of skill required, pay scale, and growth potential for Chefs in Reno.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Reno for Chef
If you’re considering roles similar to Chef, here are some related career options you might explore:
These include Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Restaurant Manager—roles with responsibilities and salary ranges closely related to that of a Chef.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chef in Reno
Chefs working in Reno should be aware of labor laws and tax obligations impacting their employment.
- For federal labor laws and employment standards, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For state-specific Nevada labor laws and regulations, the Nevada Department of Business and Industry, Division of Industrial Relations provides valuable resources.