Pastry Chef Salary in Tallahassee, FL
Pastry Chefs in Tallahassee, FL, in 2025, earn approximately $14.29 per hour, which translates to about $571.60 per week, $2,476.93 per month, and $29,723.20 per year.
The demand for Pastry Chefs in Tallahassee is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating increasing opportunities and a healthy market for pastry professionals in the region.
How Much Does a Pastry Chef Make in Tallahassee, FL?
The salary of a Pastry Chef in Tallahassee varies based on experience and workplace, but the table below provides an overview across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.50 | $500.00 | $2,166.67 | $26,000.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.29 | $571.60 | $2,476.93 | $29,723.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $16.50 | $660.00 | $2,860.00 | $34,320.00 |
Do Pastry Chefs in Tallahassee Earn Tips?
Pastry Chefs typically do not earn tips since their role is primarily behind the scenes preparing desserts and baked goods, with limited direct customer interaction. Their compensation usually comes from salary or hourly wages alone.
Pastry Chef Salary in Tallahassee vs. National Average
Nationally, Pastry Chefs earn an average of around $18.32 per hour, translating to about $38,105.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Pastry Chefs in Tallahassee earn less by approximately $4.03 less per hour and about $8,382.40 less annually. This difference often reflects local living costs and market demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Tallahassee for Pastry Chefs
Nearby areas that offer higher pay for Pastry Chefs include:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- Midtown: $16.00 per hour
Commuting to Downtown or Midtown can provide Pastry Chefs with better earning potential compared to the broader Tallahassee area.
What Influences a Pastry Chef’s Salary in Tallahassee?
Several important factors impact the salary of a Pastry Chef in Tallahassee:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Pastry Chefs with advanced skills in decorating or specialty techniques tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale hotels, fine dining restaurants, or specialty bakeries often pays more than casual or fast casual eateries.
- Certifications: Holding certifications such as ServSafe or becoming a Certified Pastry Culinarian can boost a Pastry Chef’s earning potential.
- Location within the City: Positions in neighborhoods like Midtown or Downtown may offer higher pay due to demand.
How To Become a Pastry Chef in Tallahassee
Launching a career as a Pastry Chef in Tallahassee involves several key steps:
- Obtain Formal Culinary Education: Programs such as the Associate of Science degree in Culinary Arts at Keiser University – Tallahassee Campus provide strong academic and practical training.
- Gain Food Safety Certification: Certifications like ServSafe are essential for working safely and legally in food service environments.
- Consider Specialized Pastry Training: Achieving the Certified Pastry Culinarian (CPC) credential from the American Culinary Federation validates your expertise in pastry arts.
- Practical Experience: On-the-job training programs like the REfire Culinary Reentry Program offer valuable hands-on experience and food safety certification, especially for those overcoming employment barriers.
Top Employers Hiring Pastry Chefs in Tallahassee
Some of the notable employers seeking Pastry Chefs in Tallahassee include:
- Bruster's Real Ice Cream
- Tasty Pastry Bakery
- Three Dog Bakery
Establishments That Pastry Chefs in Tallahassee Work At
Pastry Chefs in Tallahassee commonly work in a variety of establishments such as:
- Specialty Bakeries: Typically offer competitive wages reflecting the artisanal skills required.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: May have moderate wages but often provide steady employment.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Often pay higher salaries and provide opportunities for advancement based on scale and prestige.
The nature and reputation of the establishment can greatly influence salary and growth opportunities for Pastry Chefs.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Tallahassee for Pastry Chefs
Those interested in pastry arts might also consider similar roles in the hospitality industry, expanding their opportunities.
These include Pastry Cook, Baker, and Head Chef positions, which share overlapping skills and job functions with Pastry Chefs.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Pastry Chefs in Tallahassee
Being aware of labor laws and taxation helps Pastry Chefs ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- Refer to the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for detailed information on employment standards.
- The State of Florida's Department of Business and Professional Regulation website is a valuable resource for licenses and regulations.