Chef Salary in Wilmington, NC
Chefs in Wilmington, NC, in 2026, earn approximately $27.62 per hour, which translates to about $1,104.80 per week, $4,787.47 per month, and $57,449.60 per year.
The demand for Chefs in Wilmington is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job outlook in the culinary field for the region.
How Much Does a Chef Make in Wilmington, NC?
The salary of a Chef in Wilmington can vary depending on experience and employer, but here is a general breakdown of earnings across levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $20.68 | $827.20 | $3,578.13 | $39,846.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $27.62 | $1,104.80 | $4,787.47 | $57,449.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $36.88 | $1,475.20 | $6,365.33 | $76,710.40 |
Do Chefs in Wilmington Earn Tips?
Chefs typically do not earn tips as part of their compensation. Their earnings mainly come from salary or hourly wages, with tips usually reserved for front-of-house staff like servers.
Chef Salary in Wilmington vs. National Average
Nationally, Chefs earn an average of around $19.73 per hour, which equals about $41,038.40 per year.
Compared to the national average, Chefs in Wilmington earn significantly more, with an average hourly wage of $27.62 and an annual salary of $57,449.60.
This difference is likely influenced by local demand, cost of living, and the prominence of culinary tourism in Wilmington.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Wilmington for Chefs
Nearby areas offer the following average hourly pay for Chefs:
- Downtown: $28.50 per hour
- Wrightsville Beach: $30.00 per hour
Chefs working in Wrightsville Beach can expect some of the highest wages nearby, reflecting the area's popularity and tourism-driven dining scene.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in Wilmington?
Several key factors affect how much a Chef can earn in Wilmington:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Chefs, including those with specialty skills like Pastry or Executive Chefs, tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Chefs in fine dining restaurants or upscale resorts typically earn more than those in casual or fast-casual venues.
- Certifications and Education: Specialized training or certifications can boost pay and open up leadership roles.
- Local Market Demand: Wilmington's growing food scene and tourism industry increase demand for skilled Chefs.
- Size and Reputation of Employer: Larger or well-known organizations often offer better compensation packages.
How To Become a Chef in Wilmington
Building a career as a Chef in Wilmington involves several steps:
- Formal Culinary Education: Programs like the Cape Fear Community College Culinary Arts Program provide Associate Degrees in Culinary Arts with hands-on and theoretical training.
- Hospitality Management Courses: The University of North Carolina Wilmington offers a Bachelor’s degree with courses in culinary management and food service operations, preparing students for leadership roles.
- Food Safety Certifications: Obtaining credentials such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensures knowledge of vital food safety practices.
- Alcohol Permits: For Chefs working in establishments serving alcohol, the North Carolina Alcohol Beverage Control Commission Permit may be required.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Wilmington
Some of the prominent organizations hiring Chefs in Wilmington include:
- Novant Health
- New Hanover County Schools
- University of North Carolina Wilmington
Establishments That Chefs in Wilmington Work At
Chefs in Wilmington find employment across a variety of establishments, including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These venues offer higher salary potential due to the level of skill required.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: Chefs here earn less on average but may benefit from more flexible hours.
- Hotels and Resorts: These employers can provide stable work and better benefits.
- Healthcare Facilities and Schools: Institutions like Novant Health and New Hanover County Schools employ Chefs for their food service needs, often with different pay structures.
The type of establishment significantly impacts salary, with specialized and higher-end settings offering better compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Wilmington for Chefs
If you are interested in roles related to that of a Chef, you might consider these similar careers:
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chefs in Wilmington
Chefs in Wilmington should be aware of both federal and state labor laws that affect their employment terms and tax obligations.
- For federal labor laws and regulations, you can visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- North Carolina's official government site offers resources on employment, labor laws, and workers’ rights at nc.gov.