Head Chef Salary in Hampton, VA
Head Chefs in Hampton, VA, in 2026, earn approximately $25.10 per hour, which translates to about $1,004.00 per week, $4,350.67 per month, and $52,208.00 per year.
The demand for Head Chefs in Hampton is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for culinary professionals seeking advancement in this region.
How Much Does a Head Chef Make in Hampton, VA?
The salary of a Head Chef in Hampton varies with experience and skill set. Below is an overview of what you can expect at different levels of your career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $19.10 | $764.00 | $3,297.33 | $39,728.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $25.10 | $1,004.00 | $4,350.67 | $52,208.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $31.20 | $1,248.00 | $5,393.60 | $64,896.00 |
Do Head Chefs in Hampton Earn Tips?
Head Chefs typically do not earn tips as their role is primarily in the kitchen managing food preparation rather than direct customer service. Their compensation mostly comes from salaries and possibly bonuses based on performance or establishment success.
Head Chef Salary in Hampton vs. National Average
Nationally, Head Chefs earn an average of around $26.20 per hour, which amounts to approximately $54,496 annually.
Compared to this, Head Chefs in Hampton make slightly less on an hourly basis at $25.10 per hour and $52,208 annually.
This difference might be influenced by local cost of living and regional demand factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Hampton for Head Chefs
If you're considering nearby areas to Hampton, the following neighborhoods offer competitive pay for Head Chefs:
- Downtown Hampton: $27.50 per hour
- Phoebus: $26.80 per hour
Targeting jobs in Downtown Hampton may provide better compensation opportunities given the higher hourly rates available.
What Influences a Head Chef’s Salary in Hampton?
Several important factors determine how much a Head Chef can earn in Hampton:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More seasoned chefs with expertise in various cuisines command higher salaries.
- Type and Size of Establishment: High-end restaurants and hotels tend to pay better than casual dining or fast-casual settings.
- Leadership and Management Abilities: Skills in running a kitchen team and inventory control boost earning potential.
- Education and Certifications: Formal culinary education and certifications such as ServSafe Food Manager can raise qualifications and pay.
- Local Market Demand: Areas with a stronger food culture or tourism industry can offer more lucrative opportunities.
How To Become a Head Chef in Hampton
To pursue a career as a Head Chef in Hampton, consider taking these key steps:
- Obtain Culinary Training: Institutions like the Culinary Institute of Virginia in Norfolk provide comprehensive programs in Culinary Arts, Baking and Pastry Arts, and Food Service Management. The Hampton County School District Culinary Arts Program also offers valuable courses in Culinary Arts Management including ServSafe and ProStart certifications.
- Earn Professional Certifications: Achieving the ServSafe Food Manager Certification demonstrates essential knowledge of food safety and sanitation. The ProStart Certificate of Achievement combines classroom learning with practical experience and is well-regarded in the industry.
- Gain Kitchen Experience: Starting as a line cook or sous chef can help build the practical skills necessary for a Head Chef role.
- Develop Leadership Skills: Effective management of staff and kitchen operations is crucial for advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Head Chefs in Hampton
Several well-known establishments in Hampton offer opportunities for Head Chefs, including:
- Bar Louie
- Chili's
- Applebee's
- Longhorn Steakhouse
- IHOP
Establishments That Head Chefs in Hampton Work At
Head Chefs in Hampton can be found working in a variety of establishments:
- Casual and Family-Style Restaurants: Often offer steady work but typically lower salaries compared to upscale venues.
- Fast Casual and Chain Restaurants: These places might offer standardized menus and limited creativity, generally paying less than fine dining.
- Fine Dining and Hotel Restaurants: These establishments usually provide higher salaries and greater opportunities to showcase culinary skills and creativity.
- Catering Companies and Private Clubs: Can offer competitive pay and unique professional experiences but may require varied hours.
The type of establishment directly impacts salary, with luxury and high-volume kitchens often paying the most.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Hampton for Head Chefs
If you're interested in positions similar to Head Chef, consider these related careers which involve overlapping skills and responsibilities:
These include Executive Chef, Chef, and Kitchen Manager positions, each offering distinct career paths within the culinary and hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Head Chefs in Hampton
Understanding labor laws and taxation is important for Head Chefs working in Hampton.
- Visit the U.S. Department of Labor website for comprehensive federal information on labor laws, wage standards, and employment regulations.
- For Virginia-specific labor laws, wage requirements, and workforce development resources, check the Virginia state government website.