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Food Service · New Mexico

How to Become a Chefs and Head Cooks in New Mexico

Chefs and Head Cooks in New Mexico earn a median salary of $62,250/year, which is 0% below the national average. New Mexico has a state income tax of ~3.3%. After taxes and rent, a chefs and head cooks takes home approximately $2,968/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$62K
Median salary in New Mexico
-0%
vs. national average
3.3%
State income tax
770
Employed in New Mexico

What a chefs and head cooks can afford in New Mexico

Gross annual salary$62,250
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 3.3% state tax)$4,167/mo
Median 2BR rent (New Mexico)-$1,199/mo
Rent as % of take-home28.8% (within guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$62,250/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$2,968/mo

Becoming a chefs and head cooks in New Mexico

1

Meet education requirements

Chefs and Head Cooks positions in New Mexico typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across New Mexico. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many chefs and head cooks positions in New Mexico require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain New Mexico licensure or certification

New Mexico may require specific licensing or professional certification for chefs and head cookss. Requirements vary by state, contact the New Mexico Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in New Mexico

New Mexico employs 770 chefs and head cooks. The highest concentrations are in Santa Fe and Las Cruces.

Chefs and Head Cooks salary by metro area in New Mexico

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Santa Fe$72K$34.62/hr100
Las Cruces$61K$29.34/hr40
Albuquerque$60K$28.87/hr390

Chefs and Head Cooks salary range in New Mexico

10th percentile (entry)
$43K
25th percentile
$49K
Median (50th)
$62K
75th percentile
$83K
90th percentile (senior)
$100K
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Full chefs and head cooks salary breakdown in New Mexico
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Chefs and Head Cooks careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a chefs and head cooks make in New Mexico?

The median chefs and head cooks salary in New Mexico is $62,250 per year ($29.93/hr). This is 0% below the national median of $62,470. Salaries range from $43,370 to $100,010.

What are the requirements to become a chefs and head cooks in New Mexico?

Chefs and Head Cooks positions in New Mexico typically require No formal educational credential. New Mexico may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the New Mexico licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a chefs and head cooks afford to live in New Mexico?

At the median salary of $62,250, a chefs and head cooks in New Mexico would take home approximately $4,167/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,199/month, that's 28.8% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for chefs and head cooks in New Mexico?

The highest paying metro areas for chefs and head cooks in New Mexico are Santa Fe ($72,020), Las Cruces ($61,030), Albuquerque ($60,040). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros, a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does New Mexico have state income tax for chefs and head cooks?

Yes, New Mexico has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.3%. On a $62,250 salary, this means roughly $2,055/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.