Chefs and Head Cooks Salary in Illinois (2026)
Illinois · 5.0% above national average · Medium Demand
| City | Avg Salary | vs National | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago | $72,912 | +12.0% | Medium |
| Aurora | $66,402 | +2.0% | Medium |
Illinois is home to a strong job market for Chefs and Head Cookss. The state's key industries — Finance, Manufacturing, Agriculture — generate significant demand for skilled professionals. At $65,100 per year, Illinois's Chefs and Head Cooks salaries are 5.0% higher than the national average.
The cost of living in Illinois (index: 1.05) justifies the higher pay scale. Entry-level professionals in Illinois can expect to earn $38,739–$52,658, while experienced Chefs and Head Cookss can command $83,975–$96,465.
Looking ahead, the Chefs and Head Cooks profession in Illinois is projected to grow at 4.0% annually. Major employers are actively hiring, and the state's investment in Finance continues to drive new opportunities for qualified candidates.
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What is the average Chefs and Head Cooks salary in Illinois?The average Chefs and Head Cooks salary in Illinois is $65,100 per year in 2026, which is 5.0% above the national average of $62,000.
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What city in Illinois pays Chefs and Head Cookss the most?Major metro areas typically pay Chefs and Head Cookss the highest wages in Illinois due to higher costs of living and competitive job markets.
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Is Illinois a good state for Chefs and Head Cookss?Illinois has a strong job market with major industries in Finance, Manufacturing, Agriculture. This makes it one of the better states for Chefs and Head Cooks employment.
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How does Illinois Chefs and Head Cooks salary compare to the US average?At $65,100/year, Illinois Chefs and Head Cooks salaries are 5.0% higher than the national average of $62,000/year.