How to Become a Chefs and Head Cooks in Washington
Chefs and Head Cooks in Washington earn a median salary of $69,800/year, which is 14% above the national average. Washington has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a chefs and head cooks takes home approximately $3,379/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.
What a chefs and head cooks can afford in Washington
Becoming a chefs and head cooks in Washington
Meet education requirements
Chefs and Head Cooks positions in Washington typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Washington. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many chefs and head cooks positions in Washington require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Washington licensure or certification
Washington may require specific licensing or professional certification for chefs and head cookss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Washington Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Washington
Washington employs 3,840 chefs and head cooks. The highest concentrations are in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue and Mount Vernon-Anacortes.
Chefs and Head Cooks salary by metro area in Washington
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue | $75K | $36.04/hr | 2,680 |
| Mount Vernon-Anacortes | $70K | $33.47/hr | 30 |
| Wenatchee-East Wenatchee | $66K | $31.92/hr | 50 |
| Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater | $66K | $31.63/hr | 100 |
| Kennewick-Richland | $62K | $29.92/hr | 100 |
| Spokane-Spokane Valley | $62K | $29.64/hr | 240 |
| Yakima | $61K | $29.53/hr | 60 |
| Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard | $61K | $29.45/hr | 90 |
| Bellingham | $55K | $26.62/hr | 110 |
Chefs and Head Cooks salary range in Washington
Chefs and Head Cooks careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a chefs and head cooks make in Washington?▼
The median chefs and head cooks salary in Washington is $69,800 per year ($33.56/hr). This is 14% above the national median of $60,990. Salaries range from $49,920 to $97,970.
What are the requirements to become a chefs and head cooks in Washington?▼
Chefs and Head Cooks positions in Washington typically require No formal educational credential. Washington may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Washington licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a chefs and head cooks afford to live in Washington?▼
At the median salary of $69,800, a chefs and head cooks in Washington would take home approximately $4,791/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 29.5% 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 Washington?▼
The highest paying metro areas for chefs and head cooks in Washington are Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue ($74,970), Mount Vernon-Anacortes ($69,610), Wenatchee-East Wenatchee ($66,390). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Washington have state income tax for chefs and head cooks?▼
No, Washington does not have a state income tax. This means chefs and head cooks keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.