Chef Salary in Tampa, FL
Chefs in Tampa, FL, in 2025, earn approximately $25.50 per hour, which translates to about $1,020.00 per week, $4,420.00 per month, and $53,040.00 per year.
The demand for Chefs in Tampa is growing steadily at about 6% per year, indicating a positive outlook for culinary professionals in the area as restaurants and hospitality sectors expand.
How Much Does a Chef Make in Tampa, FL?
The salary of a Chef in Tampa varies based on experience and expertise. Below is an overview of typical earnings at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $25.00 | $1,000.00 | $4,333.33 | $52,000.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $35.00 | $1,400.00 | $6,033.33 | $72,800.00 |
Do Chefs in Tampa Earn Tips?
Chefs generally do not earn tips as their primary income comes from their salary. However, in some establishments, they may receive occasional tip shares, but this varies.
Chef Salary in Tampa vs. National Average
Nationally, Chefs earn an average hourly wage of about $24.00 per hour, which amounts to roughly $49,920 per year.
Chefs in Tampa earn slightly above the national average, making around $25.50 per hour and $53,040 annually, reflecting a favorable salary landscape in this city.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Tampa for Chefs
Nearby Tampa, some neighborhoods offer higher salaries for Chefs:
- Downtown Tampa: $28.00 per hour
- Hyde Park: $27.50 per hour
Chefs working in Downtown Tampa and Hyde Park can expect to earn more due to the concentration of upscale dining and hospitality venues.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in Tampa?
Several factors influence a Chef's salary in Tampa, FL:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Chefs with specialized culinary skills typically command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Working in fine dining or luxury hotels can lead to better pay compared to casual or fast-food venues.
- Certifications and Education: Culinary degrees and certifications can enhance earning potential.
- Leadership Roles: Chefs managing kitchen staff or entire kitchen operations tend to earn more.
- Shift and Work Hours: Night or holiday shifts may include pay differentials that affect earnings.
How To Become a Chef in Tampa, FL
Becoming a Chef in Tampa involves several educational and practical steps to develop the necessary culinary expertise.
- Formal Culinary Education: Programs such as the Hillsborough Community College Culinary Arts Program offer an Associate in Science degree in Culinary Management, giving hands-on training and theoretical knowledge.
- Advanced Studies: The Art Institute of Tampa Culinary Arts Program provides a Bachelor of Science in Culinary Arts, focusing on both traditional and contemporary cooking techniques.
- Get Certified: Earning certifications like the ServSafe Food Manager Certification ensures understanding of critical food safety practices.
- Professional Recognition: The Certified Executive Chef (CEC) credential from the American Culinary Federation demonstrates high-level culinary skills and leadership.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Tampa
Several prominent establishments in Tampa regularly seek skilled Chefs:
- Bern's Steak House
- Ulele
- Columbia Restaurant
Establishments That Chefs in Tampa Work At
Chefs in Tampa find roles in various types of establishments including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These tend to offer higher salaries reflecting their premium menus and clientele.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Salaries may be lower but can offer diverse and dynamic work environments.
- Hotels and Resorts: These establishments often pay well, especially for Executive Chefs and Kitchen Managers.
- Catering Companies: Work here may vary seasonally but sometimes offers lucrative contracts.
The type of establishment significantly impacts salary and career growth opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Tampa for Chefs
If you are exploring careers related to being a Chef, consider these similar professions:
These include roles such as Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Restaurant Manager that share culinary and leadership responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chefs in Tampa
Chefs working in Tampa should familiarize themselves with relevant labor laws and tax regulations to ensure fair treatment and compliance.
- Federal labor guidelines are available on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Florida-specific employment resources and labor laws can be found at the official State of Florida website.
- For local regulations, visit the City of Tampa’s official website.