Head Chef Salary in Savannah, GA
Head Chefs in Savannah, GA, in 2026, earn approximately $29.30 per hour, which translates to about $1,172.00 per week, $5,078.67 per month, and $60,944.00 per year.
The demand for Head Chefs in Savannah is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a promising career outlook for culinary professionals seeking leadership roles in the city's vibrant food industry.
How Much Does a Head Chef Make in Savannah, GA?
The salary of a Head Chef in Savannah varies widely depending on experience, skills, and the dining establishment, but here’s an overview of earnings at different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.90 | $636.00 | $2,758.00 | $33,072.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $25.00 | $1,000.00 | $4,333.33 | $52,000.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $41.60 | $1,664.00 | $7,174.67 | $86,528.00 |
Do Head Chefs in Savannah Earn Tips?
Typically, Head Chefs do not earn tips as their roles focus on kitchen management and food preparation behind the scenes rather than direct customer interaction. Their compensation mainly comes from their salary or wages.
Head Chef Salary in Savannah vs. National Average
Nationally, Head Chefs earn an average of around $28.90 per hour, which equals about $60,112 per year.
Compared to the national average, Head Chefs in Savannah earn slightly more per hour, with local wages at $29.30 hourly and an annual salary of $60,944.00. This modest premium reflects Savannah's culinary scene and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Savannah for Head Chefs
Nearby neighborhoods offer competitive salaries for Head Chefs, including:
- Historic District: $30.50 per hour
- Ardsley Park: $29.80 per hour
These areas tend to have high-end restaurants and tourist attractions, which contribute to better pay levels for culinary leadership.
What Influences a Head Chef’s Salary in Savannah?
Several key factors can impact how much a Head Chef earns in Savannah:
- Experience and Expertise: Advanced culinary skills and years managing kitchen operations typically increase earning potential.
- Type and Prestige of Establishment: Luxury hotels, fine dining restaurants, and resorts tend to offer higher salaries compared to casual dining or fast casual locations.
- Educational Background and Certifications: Formal culinary education and certifications like Certified Executive Chef (CEC) often lead to better pay.
- Leadership and Management Skills: The ability to efficiently lead a kitchen team and manage costs is highly valuable and reflected in compensation.
- Location Within the City: Salaries can vary by neighborhood depending on the clientele and economic status of the area.
How To Become a Head Chef in Savannah
Entering the role of Head Chef requires a combination of education, training, and experience. Some effective steps include:
- Enroll in Culinary Education Programs: Institutions such as Savannah Culinary Institute, offering accredited culinary arts programs, and the Culinary Arts Program at Savannah Technical College provide foundational knowledge and hands-on training.
- Obtain Essential Certifications: Food safety is critical in kitchen management. The ServSafe Certification ensures knowledge of food safety standards. Achieving the Certified Executive Chef (CEC) credential showcases professional competence and leadership capabilities.
- Gain Practical Kitchen Experience: Working as a line cook, sous chef, or in other culinary positions helps build skills necessary for managing a kitchen.
- Network and Seek Mentoring: Connecting with established chefs and joining local culinary groups can provide valuable guidance and job opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Head Chefs in Savannah
Some of the well-known restaurants and establishments currently hiring Head Chefs in Savannah include:
- The Grey
- Husk Savannah
- Elizabeth on 37th
- The Collins Quarter
- Vic's On the River
Establishments That Head Chefs in Savannah Work At
Head Chefs in Savannah may find employment in a variety of food service settings:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These offer the highest salaries, reflecting the level of culinary expertise and the upscale clientele.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger establishments may provide comprehensive benefits and higher pay due to scale and service expectations.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Though these generally pay less, they can offer valuable experience and quicker advancement in some cases.
The type of establishment directly influences the complexity of the menu, responsibility level, and ultimately the salary a Head Chef can command.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Savannah for Head Chefs
If you're exploring career options related to the Head Chef role, consider these similar positions:
These include Executive Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Restaurant Manager roles, each requiring different mixes of culinary expertise and management skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Head Chefs in Savannah
Head Chefs should familiarize themselves with relevant labor laws and tax requirements to protect their rights and ensure compliance.
- For federal labor law information, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For Georgia-specific employment and labor law guidance, the Georgia Department of Labor website is an essential resource.