Sous Chef statistics 2025 reveal more than just numbers — they tell the story of the people behind America’s kitchens.
From job growth to pay trends, these insights show where the culinary world is heading next.
Sous Chef Employment and Job Growth in the U.S.
- There are more than 111,000 Sous Chefs currently employed in the U.S.
- Recent data shows there are approximately 22,393 active Sous Chef job openings across the country.
- 23% of Sous Chefs stay with the same employer for up to a year, and only 7% remain with the same employer for more than eight years.
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Job Satisfaction and Career Outlook for Sous Chefs
- 66% of Sous Chefs feel generally happy or content with their job.
- 48% find their work highly meaningful and rewarding.
- Sous Chef positions are expected to grow by 5.3% over the next 10 years.
This article focuses specifically on Sous Chefs. For data on the broader Chef profession, check out our Statistics about Chefs.
Demographics of Sous Chefs Working in the U.S.
Understanding the demographics of Sous Chefs helps paint a clearer picture of who is stepping into these positions.
- Approximately 82% of Sous Chefs are male, while only 18% are female.
- About 55% of Sous Chefs in the U.S. identify as White, while 18% are Hispanic or Latino and 11% are Asian.
- Approximately 49% of Sous Chefs speak Spanish as a second language, 18% speak French and 12% speak Italian.
- The majority of Sous Chefs (56%) are over 40 years old, indicating that a substantial amount of experience is often valued for this role.
- The most common educational attainment for Sous Chefs is an associate's degree, held by 51% of professionals in this role.
- 24% have a bachelor's degree and 14% hold a high school diploma.
See also: Pros and Cons of Being a Sous Chef
Sous Chef Employment by Company Size
Sous Chefs work in a wide range of establishments — from small, locally owned restaurants to large hospitality groups and hotel chains.
- 24% of Sous Chefs work for companies with fewer than 100 employees.
- 32% are employed by mid-sized businesses with 100 to 999 employees.
- 28% work for companies with 1,000 to 10,000 employees.
Sous Chef Salary and Income Statistics for 2025
How much a Sous Chef can earn depends on several factors like their geographic location and other monetary incentives received.
- Recent data shows that Sous Chefs make about $56,013 a year.
- Sous Chefs working in larger establishments are typically paid round $4,667 a month.
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- Around 96% of Sous Chefs report receiving annual bonuses.
- The District of Columbia offers the highest average salary for Sous Chefs at $63,015 per year, followed by Washington at $62,578.
- Out of all chef positions, Personal Chefs earn the most, averaging about $70,398 per year.
See also: Restaurant Industry Statistics for 2025
Final Insights from Sous Chef Statistics 2025
These Sous Chef statistics for 2025 highlight steady job growth, solid career satisfaction and opportunities for advancement in the U.S. culinary and hospitality industry.
Although the role comes with challenges like long hours and high turnover, it remains a vital and rewarding position for those committed to the craft.
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