Pastry Chef Salary in Tampa, FL
Pastry Chefs in Tampa, FL, in 2025, earn approximately $19.90 per hour, which translates to about $796.00 per week, $3,449.33 per month, and $41,392.00 per year.
The demand for Pastry Chefs in Tampa is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook and expanding opportunities in the culinary sector.
How Much Does a Pastry Chef Make in Tampa, FL?
The salary of a Pastry Chef in Tampa varies depending on experience and employer. Below is a breakdown of earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.36 | $614.40 | $2,657.60 | $31,891.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.90 | $796.00 | $3,449.33 | $41,392.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $25.78 | $1,031.20 | $4,454.93 | $53,622.40 |
Do Pastry Chefs in Tampa Earn Tips?
Pastry Chefs generally do not earn tips as their work is primarily behind the scenes preparing desserts and pastries. Their compensation is usually based on salary or wages alone.
Pastry Chef Salary in Tampa vs. National Average
Nationally, Pastry Chefs earn on average about $19.90 per hour or $41,392 annually.
In Tampa, Pastry Chefs earn roughly the same as the national average, making around $19.90 per hour and $41,392 per year. This indicates a competitive market that aligns with broader U.S. salary trends for this position.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Tampa for Pastry Chefs
Nearby areas offer slightly higher salaries for Pastry Chefs, including:
- Downtown Tampa: $21.50 per hour
- Hyde Park: $22.00 per hour
Those willing to work in Downtown Tampa or Hyde Park may find improved pay compared to locations further from the city center.
What Influences a Pastry Chef’s Salary in Tampa?
Multiple factors affect a Pastry Chef’s salary in Tampa:
- Experience and Skill Level: Pastry Chefs with advanced baking skills and several years of experience tend to earn more.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and specialty bakeries often offer higher wages than fast-food or casual dining spots.
- Certifications and Training: Credentials such as the Certified Pastry Culinarian (CPC) can enhance earning potential.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening or weekend shifts might offer additional pay incentives.
- Local Demand: Tampa’s growing culinary scene and demand for artisanal desserts encourage competitive salaries.
How To Become a Pastry Chef in Tampa
To start a career as a Pastry Chef in Tampa, consider these steps:
- Education: Enroll in programs like the Art Institute of Tampa - Baking & Pastry Program or Hillsborough Community College - Culinary Arts Program to gain technical proficiency.
- Certification: Obtain certifications such as the Certified Pastry Culinarian (CPC) and ServSafe Food Handler Certification to validate your skills and knowledge.
- Practical Experience: Gain hands-on experience through internships or entry-level kitchen roles.
- Continuous Learning: Stay updated with modern pastry trends and techniques to advance your career.
Top Employers Hiring Pastry Chefs in Tampa
Tampa’s culinary scene includes several notable employers seeking Pastry Chefs:
- Bern's Steak House
- Oxford Exchange
- The Epicurean Hotel
Establishments That Pastry Chefs in Tampa Work At
Pastry Chefs in Tampa work in a range of establishments that influence their pay:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Typically offer higher salaries reflecting the skill and creativity required.
- Specialty Bakeries: Provide opportunities for skilled Pastry Chefs to earn premium wages.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often provide steady work with competitive pay and benefits.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: May offer lower salaries but abundant entry-level opportunities.
The prestige and business model of an establishment significantly affect how much a Pastry Chef earns.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Tampa for Pastry Chefs
If you're considering careers related to Pastry Chef, here are some similar roles to explore:
These include Pastry Cook, Pastry Chef, and Banquet Chef, which share similar culinary skills and workplace environments.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Pastry Chefs in Tampa
Pastry Chefs should familiarize themselves with labor laws and tax regulations applicable in Tampa and Florida.
- Visit the Federal Department of Labor website for comprehensive labor law information.
- Consult the State of Florida's official website for state-specific labor laws and employment resources.