Chef Salary in Santa Monica, CA
Chefs in Santa Monica, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $30.74 per hour, which translates to about $1,229.60 per week, $5,328.27 per month, and $63,939.20 per year.
The demand for Chefs in Santa Monica is growing at about 5% per year, indicating an increasingly positive job market for culinary professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Chef Make in Santa Monica, CA?
The salary of a Chef in Santa Monica varies based on experience and skill level. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings for different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $26.25 | $1,050.00 | $4,550.00 | $54,600.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $30.74 | $1,229.60 | $5,328.27 | $63,939.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $36.24 | $1,449.60 | $6,258.40 | $75,379.20 |
Do Chefs in Santa Monica Earn Tips?
Chefs typically do not earn tips as their role is primarily in the kitchen and not customer-facing. However, some chefs in certain establishments might receive bonuses or profit-sharing based on performance.
Chef Salary in Santa Monica vs. National Average
Nationally, Chefs earn an average of around $19.60 per hour, which translates to about $40,768 per year.
Chefs in Santa Monica earn significantly higher, around $30.74 per hour and $63,939.20 annually, reflecting the higher cost of living and demand for culinary skills in this region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Santa Monica for Chefs
Nearby areas offer competitive Chef salaries:
- Downtown Santa Monica: $32.50 per hour
- Ocean Park: $31.80 per hour
Chefs working in Downtown Santa Monica enjoy some of the highest pay rates in the vicinity.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in Santa Monica?
Several factors impact how much a Chef can earn in Santa Monica:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: Chefs with advanced techniques, specialties, and years of experience typically command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, or catering businesses usually offer better pay than casual dining spots.
- Certifications and Education: Formal culinary training or certifications can boost earning potential.
- Reputation and Networking: Being known in the local culinary scene helps secure top-paying positions.
- Shift Hours: Working evenings, weekends, or holidays might come with premium pay.
How To Become a Chef in Santa Monica
Starting a culinary career in Santa Monica involves several key steps:
- Complete Culinary Arts Training: Programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Santa Monica College offer hands-on experience in cooking techniques, kitchen management, and menu planning.
- Consider Professional Chef Programs: The Professional Chef Training at New School of Cooking in nearby Culver City focuses on classic and modern culinary methods.
- Get Certified: Obtaining certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification or the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) credential from the American Culinary Federation enhances your credentials.
- Gain Kitchen Experience: Start working in kitchens to build skills as a line cook or commis chef before advancing.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Santa Monica
Santa Monica's vibrant culinary scene features top employers actively hiring Chefs, including:
- BOA Steakhouse
- Benihana
- Tiato
Establishments That Chefs in Santa Monica Work At
Chefs in Santa Monica often find employment across various establishment types, each influencing salary potential:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Offer some of the highest salaries due to complex menus and high demand for culinary artistry.
- Casual and Fast Casual Dining: Generally offer moderate salaries but can provide steady work experience.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often provide competitive wages plus benefits.
- Catering Companies: May offer flexibility and different compensation models, including bonuses.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Santa Monica for Chefs
Those interested in culinary careers similar to Chef roles might explore the following:
These include Executive Chef, Head Chef, and Restaurant Manager positions, offering related career paths in the culinary and hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chefs in Santa Monica
Chefs working in Santa Monica should be knowledgeable about relevant labor laws and tax regulations to ensure fair employment and compliance.
- For federal labor laws and regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- California-specific labor laws and workplace regulations can be found at the California Department of Industrial Relations website.