Chef Salary in Santa Fe, NM
Chefs in Santa Fe, NM, in 2025, earn approximately $23.31 per hour, which equates to about $932.40 per week, $4,040.40 per month, and $48,484.80 per year.
The demand for Chefs in Santa Fe is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a promising trend and expanding opportunities for culinary professionals in the region.
How Much Does a Chef Make in Santa Fe, NM?
The salary of a Chef in Santa Fe varies based on experience and the employer, but here is a breakdown of the earnings at different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $22.23 | $889.20 | $3,847.20 | $46,166.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $23.31 | $932.40 | $4,040.40 | $48,484.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $24.44 | $977.60 | $4,220.53 | $50,755.20 |
Do Chefs in Santa Fe Earn Tips?
Chefs occasionally earn tips depending on the establishment type and their role, but typically tipping is not a primary source of income. In some fine dining or specialty restaurants, Chefs might earn the equivalent of an extra $10 per hour in tips.
Chef Salary in Santa Fe vs. National Average
Nationally, Chefs earn an average of about $19.75 per hour or roughly $41,080 per year.
Compared to this, Chefs in Santa Fe make a higher hourly wage of $23.31 and an annual salary nearing $48,485. This difference may be influenced by Santa Fe’s culinary culture and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Santa Fe for Chefs
Nearby areas offering higher wages for Chefs include:
- Carlsbad: $26.90 per hour
- Jal: $26.47 per hour
Chefs considering relocation around Santa Fe might find more lucrative opportunities in these nearby cities.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in Santa Fe?
Several key factors influence how much a Chef can earn in Santa Fe:
- Experience and Skill Level: Chefs with years of culinary experience and expertise in specialized cuisines typically have higher earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants and resorts often pay more than casual eateries or fast food outlets.
- Culinary Certifications: Holding certifications, such as the Certified Executive Chef (CEC), can boost salary prospects.
- Reputation and Network: Well-known Chefs with a strong local or broader reputation often command better salaries.
- Local Demand and Economic Factors: Santa Fe's vibrant food scene and tourism impact culinary job opportunities and wages.
How To Become a Chef in Santa Fe
Starting a career as a Chef in Santa Fe can be achieved by following these steps:
- Complete Culinary Education: Enroll in programs such as the Santa Fe Community College Culinary Arts Program or courses at the New Mexico School of Cooking, which provide hands-on skills and knowledge.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensures essential food safety knowledge, enhancing employability.
- Earn Advanced Certifications: Consider certifications like Certified Executive Chef (CEC) from the American Culinary Federation to advance professionally.
- Gain Experience: Work in various kitchens, from casual to fine dining, to build a diverse skill set.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Santa Fe
Santa Fe offers numerous employment opportunities for Chefs at notable establishments such as:
- La Fonda on the Plaza
- The Shed
- Geronimo
Establishments That Chefs in Santa Fe Work At
Chefs in Santa Fe are employed in various types of culinary settings including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These typically offer higher salaries due to the complexity of cuisine and service expectations.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: Salary tends to be moderate but can offer stable employment.
- Resorts and Hotels: These often provide more structured career paths and benefits.
- Specialty and Ethnic Restaurants: Focused on regional or thematic cuisine, these can offer niche experience and competitive pay.
The type of establishment has a significant effect on the income and career growth potential for Chefs.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Santa Fe for Chef
If you're interested in careers related to the Chef role, consider these options:
These positions include Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Restaurant Manager, offering paths with related skills and responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chefs in Santa Fe
Understanding the legal and tax framework is important for Chefs working in Santa Fe.
- For New Mexico state labor laws and resources, visit the newmexico.gov website.
- For federal labor laws and regulations, check the U.S. Department of Labor website.