Chef Salary in Sacramento, CA
Chefs in Sacramento, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $28.35 per hour, which translates to about $1,134.00 per week, $4,914.00 per month, and $58,968.00 per year.
The job demand for Chefs in Sacramento is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy and expanding market for culinary professionals in the region.
How Much Does a Chef Make in Sacramento, CA?
The average salary for a Chef in Sacramento varies based on experience and expertise. Below is a breakdown across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $23.86 | $954.40 | $4,128.53 | $49,549.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $28.35 | $1,134.00 | $4,914.00 | $58,968.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $33.68 | $1,347.20 | $5,827.47 | $69,934.40 |
Do Chefs in Sacramento Earn Tips?
Chefs typically do not earn regular tips as their work is primarily behind the scenes in the kitchen. However, in some establishments, especially smaller restaurants or private events, they might receive occasional gratuities, but this is not a consistent part of their income.
Chef Salary in Sacramento vs. National Average
Across the United States, Chefs earn an average of about $19.68 per hour, equivalent to roughly $40,934 annually.
Comparatively, Chefs in Sacramento enjoy significantly higher pay with an average hourly wage of $28.35 and an annual salary close to $58,968. This difference can be attributed to Sacramento’s culinary market demands and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Sacramento for Chefs
Nearby, certain neighborhoods offer higher salaries for Chefs:
- Downtown Sacramento: $30.50 per hour
- Midtown Sacramento: $29.80 per hour
Chefs working in Downtown Sacramento can expect better compensation compared to Midtown, due to the concentration of upscale restaurants and hospitality venues.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in Sacramento?
The salary a Chef earns in Sacramento depends on several factors, including:
- Experience and Expertise: Skilled Chefs with years of experience or specialized techniques often command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in fine dining or upscale restaurants generally leads to better pay than fast casual or institutional kitchens.
- Certifications and Education: Culinary certifications and formal education can improve salary prospects.
- Leadership Roles: Head Chefs or Executive Chefs typically earn more than Commis or Line Cooks.
- Shift and Work Hours: Evening or weekend shifts may come with premium pay rates.
How To Become a Chef in Sacramento
Pursuing a career as a Chef in Sacramento typically begins with gaining both education and hands-on experience. Here are some paths to consider:
- Attend Culinary Arts Programs: Institutions such as American River College Culinary Arts Program and Sacramento City College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive training covering culinary techniques, kitchen management, and food safety.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Certifications like ServSafe Food Manager Certification ensure knowledge of essential food safety practices required by employers.
- Advance with Professional Certifications: Earning certifications such as Certified Executive Chef (CEC) from the American Culinary Federation can demonstrate advanced culinary skills and leadership.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working in various kitchen roles builds valuable experience needed to progress in the culinary field.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Sacramento
The following establishments are among the top employers seeking skilled Chefs in Sacramento:
- The Kitchen Restaurant
- Ella Dining Room and Bar
- Mulvaney's B&L
Establishments That Chefs in Sacramento Work At
Chefs in Sacramento typically work in a variety of settings, including:
- Casual Restaurants: These may offer competitive pay but generally less than upscale venues.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Usually provide higher salaries due to the demand for specialized culinary skills.
- Fast Casual Venues: Salaries here are often on the lower end, though work can be fast-paced and dynamic.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often provide steady employment with potential for benefits and advancement.
The type of establishment significantly affects earning potential, with fine dining and luxury hotels generally offering the highest compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Sacramento for Chefs
If you're considering careers related to being a Chef, here are several similar roles to explore:
These include Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Restaurant Manager positions, which share overlapping skills and career paths with Chefs.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chefs in Sacramento
Chefs in Sacramento should be aware of state and local labor laws as well as tax requirements to ensure compliance and proper financial management.
- For information on California labor laws and regulations, visit the California Department of Industrial Relations.
- The California Employment Development Department provides resources on state employment services and tax information.
- Local government resources can be accessed through the Sacramento County Official Website.