Chef Salary in Virginia Beach, VA
Chefs in Virginia Beach, VA, in 2025, earn approximately $17.55 per hour, which translates to about $702.00 per week, $3,042.00 per month, and $36,504.00 per year.
The demand for Chefs in Virginia Beach is growing steadily at about 5% per year, showing a positive job outlook driven by the area's thriving hospitality and tourism sectors.
How Much Does a Chef Make in Virginia Beach, VA?
The salary of a Chef in Virginia Beach varies based on experience and restaurant caliber. Below is an overview of earnings at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.41 | $496.40 | $2,146.53 | $25,792.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.55 | $702.00 | $3,042.00 | $36,504.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $29.67 | $1,186.80 | $5,130.80 | $61,593.60 |
Do Chefs in Virginia Beach Earn Tips?
Chefs generally do not earn tips directly as tipping primarily benefits front-of-house staff. However, some Kitchen environments may allow small tip pools shared among kitchen staff, but this is not guaranteed and varies by establishment.
Chef Salary in Virginia Beach vs. National Average
Nationally, Chefs earn about $19.50 per hour, or around $40,560 annually.
Compared to the national average, Chefs in Virginia Beach earn slightly less per hour ($17.55) and roughly $4,000 less annually ($36,504). This difference may reflect regional cost of living and the mix of establishments in the area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Virginia Beach for Chefs
Nearby areas show slightly higher wages for Chefs:
- Area 1: $18.50 per hour
- Area 2: $19.00 per hour
Chefs willing to commute might find increased earnings in these neighboring regions.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in Virginia Beach?
Several key factors affect a Chef’s earnings in Virginia Beach:
- Experience and Expertise: Advanced culinary skills and years in the kitchen typically increase salary potential.
- Type of Establishment: Chefs working in fine dining or upscale resort restaurants often earn more than those in casual or fast-food places.
- Certifications: Professional credentials can boost credibility and wages.
- Management Responsibilities: Chefs with duties over kitchen staff and operations can command higher pay.
- Local Market Demand: Tourism and dining trends in Virginia Beach impact salary levels.
How To Become a Chef in Virginia Beach
To become a Chef in Virginia Beach, consider these steps:
- Pursue Formal Culinary Education: Institutions like the Culinary Institute of Virginia and Tidewater Community College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive training with hands-on experience.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Earning the ServSafe Certification is essential for compliance with food safety regulations.
- Advance Credentials: Consider obtaining the Certified Executive Chef (CEC) certification to demonstrate culinary management skills.
- Gain Practical Experience: Work in kitchens across different settings to build a strong foundation.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Virginia Beach
Notable employers looking for talented Chefs in Virginia Beach include:
- Hilton Virginia Beach Oceanfront
- The Cavalier Hotel
- Terrapin Restaurant
Establishments That Chefs in Virginia Beach Work At
Chefs commonly work in a variety of culinary settings:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These usually offer the highest salaries due to demanding culinary standards and upscale clientele.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Many Chefs earn moderate wages here with opportunities for skill development.
- Hotels and Resorts: These establishments often provide steady work and competitive pay, especially in resort areas like Virginia Beach.
- Catering Services: Chefs here can gain varied experience but may face fluctuating demand and pay.
The establishment type significantly affects salary, with upscale venues generally offering more lucrative compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Virginia Beach for Chefs
If you’re exploring related career options, here are a few roles to consider:
These include Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Restaurant Manager positions, which require complementary culinary and leadership skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chefs in Virginia Beach
Chefs should familiarize themselves with labor laws and tax regulations that impact their employment:
- For federal employment standards, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For Virginia-specific labor and tax information, check the Virginia government website.