Chefs and Head Cooks Salary in Las Vegas, NV

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Las Vegas-Henderson-North Las Vegas, NV

Median annual salary $58,590 -3.9% vs national
Median hourly $28.17
10th percentile $35,200
90th percentile $92,160
Employed locally 3,990
National median $60,990

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    In Las Vegas, NV, chefs and head cooks earn a median annual salary of $58,590, which is slightly below the national median of $60,990 for this occupation. When compared to the local median household income of $73,845, it becomes evident that culinary professionals in this area typically earn less than the average household. This discrepancy highlights that while chefs and head cooks contribute significantly to Las Vegas's renowned hospitality sector, their earnings are modest relative to overall local economic standings.

    The salary range for chefs and head cooks varies notably with experience and skill level. Entry-level workers in Las Vegas can expect to earn around $35,200 annually, representing the 10th percentile of salaries. In contrast, those at the 25th percentile make approximately $46,930, while more experienced and skilled chefs may see earnings up to the 75th percentile at $72,170 annually, or even reach the 90th percentile with salaries as high as $92,160. This disparity is driven by factors such as experience, reputation, specialization within the culinary field, and the prestige of the employing establishment. Experienced chefs often command higher salaries due to their developed skill sets, leadership abilities, and contributions to a restaurant's success, reflecting both market demand and individual career progression.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $35,200
    25th
    $46,930
    50th (median)
    $58,590
    75th
    $72,170
    90th
    $92,160

    Las Vegas economic context

    Unemployment rate 5.80% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $73,845 2023 • Census ACS
    Chefs and Head Cooks salary vs area income 79% Median Chefs and Head Cooks salary is 21% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Chefs and Head Cooks make per hour in Las Vegas?

    The median hourly wage for Chefs and Head Cooks in Las Vegas, NV is $28.17, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $48.65 or more per hour.

    Is Las Vegas above or below average for Chefs and Head Cooks salaries?

    The median Chefs and Head Cooks salary in Las Vegas, NV is 3.9% below the national median of $60,990. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Chefs and Head Cooks in Las Vegas?

    Entry-level Chefs and Head Cooks (10th percentile) earn around $35,200 per year in Las Vegas, NV. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $46,930.