Sous Chef salary in United States

Average Yearly Salary of Sous Chef in United States is approximately 52,044 USD (52,112 USD). Data is for 2025 and indicates a pre-tax value. The salary itself depends on multiple factors such as seniority, job performance, certifications, experience or any other bonuses. The value indicated is an average amount based on records we have in database. Real values may vary. The data is for orientational purposes.

What does Sous Chef do?

A sous chef is a professional culinary position that assists the head chef in managing and overseeing the kitchen operations. They are responsible for coordinating and supervising the kitchen staff, ensuring food quality, and maintaining high standards of cleanliness and safety. Sous chefs also contribute to menu planning, inventory management, and cost control. They often have hands-on involvement in food preparation, cooking, and plating, and may even lead a team during the head chef's absence. Sous chefs need strong leadership skills, excellent communication, and the ability to work well under pressure. They must have a deep understanding of various cooking techniques, ingredients, and flavor profiles. The occupation of a sous chef requires creativity, attention to detail, and a passion for culinary excellence.

Skills: Sous Chef, Culinary Arts, Kitchen Management, Food Preparation, Menu Planning, Leadership.
Job industry: Food and beverage

How much does Sous Chef make?

Difference in salary year over year or average salary increase is approximately 3 %


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Salary comparison to National average

Is Sous Chef a well paid job?

Yes, our data show that Sous Chef is an averagely well paid job that still allows for some yearly savings. With years and experience the salary might increase even further, resulting in higher satisfaction.

What is considered a high salary for Sous Chef?

High salary for Sous Chef would be somewhere between 57,248 USD and 75,464 USD. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Sous Chef in United States?

Living in United States the approximate monthly expenses are: 2,280 USD. This amount covers basic needs such as food, housing, clothing, healthcare and education costs for a single person. No luxury expenses such as traveling, leisure, hobbies are included in the estimation.

Estimated Yearly Salary: 52,044 USD
Estimated Monthly Salary: 4,337 USD
Estimated Weekly Salary: 1,001 USD per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 25 USD per hour
By working as Sous Chef a person can save up to 2,063 USD per month or 24,752 USD yearly. Values are pre-tax.

NOTE: These values are estimates and are averaged for the whole country. Furthermore the value is likely exaggerated as no other expenses are taken into account in the projection. Unessential expenses are very subjective and are difficult to assess. Most likely the previously estimated number is significantly lower for majority of people. Expenses in different cities across the country may vary. Above values accuracy is low and is based on limited set of data obtained.

For more information regarding expenses in United States, see costs of living in United States.

Salary comparison to region and neighbouring coutries

Country's neighbours are: Canada, Mexico.
To make it easier for comparison a conversion from local currency to USD has been made (conversion rates may vary).

Estimated Yearly Salary for Sous Chef

Last revision of data: 2025-01-04

Salary increase per years of experience

Based on data available the salary increase per years of experience is as following

0 years (beginner) equals base salary

1 to 5 years of experience yields +12% salary increase

6 to 10 years of experience yields +25% salary increase

11 to 15 years of experience yields +16% salary increase

16 to 25 years of experience yields +9% salary increase

more than 25 years of experience yields +10% salary increase

NOTE: Details based on limited set of data. Percentages may vary. The salary increase over years of experience can vary widely based on factors such as job industry, job role, location, company size, and individual performance. To gain even larger increase in salary one is advised to switch jobs and / or employer.

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Data as of 2025

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