Head Chef Salary in Sacramento, CA
Head Chefs in Sacramento, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $31.50 per hour, which translates to about $1,260.00 per week, $5,460.00 per month, and $65,520.00 per year.
The demand for Head Chefs in Sacramento is looking positive with a growth rate of 5% per year, indicating expanding opportunities and rising need for skilled culinary leadership in the city’s food service industry.
How Much Does a Head Chef Make in Sacramento, CA?
The salary of a Head Chef in Sacramento varies with experience and other factors. Here's an overview of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $24.50 | $980.00 | $4,233.33 | $50,960.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $31.50 | $1,260.00 | $5,460.00 | $65,520.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $38.50 | $1,540.00 | $6,616.67 | $79,840.00 |
Do Head Chefs in Sacramento Earn Tips?
Head Chefs typically do not earn tips as most of their work is behind the scenes managing kitchen operations. Their earnings are generally limited to salary or wages rather than tips.
Head Chef Salary in Sacramento vs. National Average
Nationally, Head Chefs earn about $28.30 per hour, which amounts to approximately $58,864 per year.
Compared to the national average, Head Chefs in Sacramento earn a slightly higher wage, at $31.50 per hour and $65,520 annually, reflecting Sacramento’s demand for experienced culinary professionals and local economic factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Sacramento for Head Chefs
Some of the highest paying areas near Sacramento include:
- Downtown Sacramento: $35.00 per hour
- Midtown Sacramento: $34.00 per hour
Working in these neighborhoods often offers Head Chefs better pay due to the concentration of upscale dining establishments and higher cost of living.
What Influences a Head Chef’s Salary in Sacramento?
Several factors contribute to the salary levels of Head Chefs in Sacramento:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: Head Chefs with extensive experience and advanced skills command higher wages due to their leadership and expertise.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, and luxury resorts typically pay more than casual dining or fast-food outlets.
- Education and Certifications: Formal culinary education and certifications can significantly boost salary prospects.
- Management Responsibilities: The level of responsibility, including staff supervision and menu planning, influences pay.
- Location: Working in high-demand areas or popular culinary hubs often results in higher compensation.
How To Become a Head Chef in Sacramento
Becoming a Head Chef requires a combination of education, training, and practical experience. Consider these steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Arts Programs: Programs such as the American River College Culinary Arts Program and Sacramento City College Culinary Arts Program provide comprehensive training and kitchen management skills.
- Gain Food Safety Certification: Acquiring the ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification ensures knowledge of essential food safety practices.
- Advance Culinary Expertise: Seek certifications like the Certified Executive Chef (CEC) offered by the American Culinary Federation to validate high-level skills.
- Build Experience: Work through kitchen roles such as line cook and sous chef to develop the expertise needed for Head Chef positions.
Top Employers Hiring Head Chefs in Sacramento
Prominent employers looking for skilled Head Chefs in Sacramento include:
- The Firehouse Restaurant
- Mulvaney's B&L
- Ella Dining Room and Bar
Establishments That Head Chefs in Sacramento Work At
Head Chefs routinely work in various food service establishments, each impacting salary potential:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Often offer the highest salaries given the complexity and expectations of cuisine and service.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: These establishments may pay less but provide steady employment opportunities.
- Hotels and Resorts: Salaries are competitive and may include additional benefits.
- Catering Companies: Work can vary seasonally, impacting earning stability.
The prestige and scale of the establishment strongly influence compensation levels for Head Chefs.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Sacramento for Head Chefs
If you are exploring careers related to Head Chef, consider the following roles that require similar culinary expertise and leadership:
These include Executive Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Restaurant Manager, all of which involve important culinary and operational responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Head Chefs in Sacramento
Head Chefs working in Sacramento should be aware of and comply with relevant labor laws and tax regulations:
- Visit the California Department of Industrial Relations for state labor laws and workplace regulations.
- Check the California Employment Development Department for employment services and tax information.
- Consult the U.S. Department of Labor for federal labor law guidelines relevant to employment and wages.