How to Become a Chefs and Head Cooks in North Carolina
Chefs and Head Cooks in North Carolina earn a median salary of $59,810/year, which is 2% below the national average. North Carolina has a state income tax of ~4.5%. After taxes and rent, a chefs and head cooks takes home approximately $2,538/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.
What a chefs and head cooks can afford in North Carolina
Becoming a chefs and head cooks in North Carolina
Meet education requirements
Chefs and Head Cooks positions in North Carolina typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across North Carolina. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many chefs and head cooks positions in North Carolina require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain North Carolina licensure or certification
North Carolina may require specific licensing or professional certification for chefs and head cookss. Requirements vary by state — contact the North Carolina Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in North Carolina
North Carolina employs 4,100 chefs and head cooks. The highest concentrations are in Durham-Chapel Hill and Pinehurst-Southern Pines.
Chefs and Head Cooks salary by metro area in North Carolina
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Durham-Chapel Hill | $65K | $31.05/hr | 220 |
| Pinehurst-Southern Pines | $64K | $30.53/hr | 70 |
| Asheville | $62K | $29.83/hr | 230 |
| Raleigh-Cary | $62K | $29.76/hr | 470 |
| Fayetteville | $61K | $29.48/hr | 50 |
| Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia | $61K | $29.2/hr | 1,300 |
| Wilmington | $59K | $28.55/hr | 180 |
| Greenville | $59K | $28.49/hr | 40 |
| Winston-Salem | $59K | $28.15/hr | 160 |
| Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton | $58K | $27.83/hr | 120 |
| Burlington | $58K | $27.73/hr | 50 |
| Greensboro-High Point | $56K | $26.72/hr | 260 |
| Jacksonville | $55K | $26.64/hr | 50 |
Chefs and Head Cooks salary range in North Carolina
Chefs and Head Cooks careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a chefs and head cooks make in North Carolina?▼
The median chefs and head cooks salary in North Carolina is $59,810 per year ($28.75/hr). This is 2% below the national median of $60,990. Salaries range from $42,290 to $98,580.
What are the requirements to become a chefs and head cooks in North Carolina?▼
Chefs and Head Cooks positions in North Carolina typically require No formal educational credential. North Carolina may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the North Carolina licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a chefs and head cooks afford to live in North Carolina?▼
At the median salary of $59,810, a chefs and head cooks in North Carolina would take home approximately $3,950/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 35.7% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for chefs and head cooks in North Carolina?▼
The highest paying metro areas for chefs and head cooks in North Carolina are Durham-Chapel Hill ($64,590), Pinehurst-Southern Pines ($63,500), Asheville ($62,040). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does North Carolina have state income tax for chefs and head cooks?▼
Yes, North Carolina has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.5%. On a $59,810 salary, this means roughly $2,691/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.