Chef Salary in St-Louis, MO
Chefs in St-Louis, MO, in 2025, earn approximately $22.88 per hour, which translates to about $915.20 per week, $3,965.87 per month, and $47,590.40 per year.
The demand for chefs in St-Louis is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for culinary professionals in the region.
How Much Does a Chef Make in St-Louis, MO?
The salary of a Chef in St-Louis varies based on experience, skills, and employer type. Here's an overview of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.75 | $550.00 | $2,383.33 | $28,600.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $22.88 | $915.20 | $3,965.87 | $47,590.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $39.24 | $1,569.60 | $6,808.00 | $81,408.00 |
Do Chefs in St-Louis Earn Tips?
Chefs typically do not earn tips as part of their compensation since tip earnings generally go to front-of-house staff. However, some chefs in certain establishments may receive occasional gratuities or bonuses.
Chef Salary in St-Louis vs. National Average
Nationally, Chefs earn an average hourly wage of $19.74 and an annual salary around $41,059.20.
Compared to the national average, Chefs in St-Louis earn slightly more, with an average hourly rate of $22.88 and a yearly salary of $47,590.40, reflecting local market conditions and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near St-Louis for Chefs
If you consider nearby areas, the pay for Chefs varies slightly:
- Clayton: $22.23 per hour
- Kansas City: $21.64 per hour
Chefs in Clayton earn nearly the same as those in St-Louis, while Kansas City offers competitive but slightly lower wages.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in St-Louis?
Experience and Culinary Skills: Chefs with extensive experience and specialized culinary techniques tend to earn higher wages.
Type of Establishment: Working in fine dining or upscale hotels usually comes with better pay compared to casual or fast food restaurants.
Certification and Education: Holding credentials like Certified Executive Chef can positively influence salary.
Location Within St-Louis: Salaries can differ depending on the neighborhood or suburb due to clientele and demand.
How To Become a Chef in St-Louis
Becoming a Chef in St-Louis involves several key steps to build skills and credentials:
- Enroll in Culinary Arts Programs: Schools like the Culinary Arts Program at St. Louis Community College offer comprehensive training in culinary techniques, kitchen management, and food safety.
- Attend Culinary Institute of St. Louis at Hickey College: Provides hands-on experience preparing students for diverse chef roles.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Achieving ServSafe Food Handler Certification is valuable for compliance and safety knowledge.
- Consider Advanced Certifications: The Certified Executive Chef (CEC) credential from the American Culinary Federation recognizes advanced expertise.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in St-Louis
Some of the most notable employers seeking talented Chefs in St-Louis include:
- Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis
- The Ritz-Carlton St. Louis
- BJC HealthCare
Establishments That Chefs in St-Louis Work At
Chefs find employment in various establishments throughout St-Louis, including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Typically offering the highest pay due to the skill and creativity required.
- Hotels and Resorts: These establishments may provide competitive salaries and benefits.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Usually offer moderate pay levels, often with faster-paced work.
- Catering Services and Healthcare Facilities: Employ Chefs with specialized menus and nutrition needs, sometimes at varying pay ranges.
Salary and opportunities vary significantly depending on the establishment's scale and clientele.
Related Hospitality Jobs in St-Louis for Chef
If you are interested in positions related to Chef, here are a few similar roles you might consider pursuing:
These roles include Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Restaurant Manager, all offering distinct career paths within the culinary and hospitality industries.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chef in St-Louis
Chefs should stay informed about relevant labor laws and taxation in Missouri to ensure proper compliance and understanding of their rights.
- For federal employment laws, visit the Department of Labor.
- For state-specific Missouri labor laws and regulations, visit labor.mo.gov.