Chefs and Head Cooks Salary in Tennessee (2026)
Tennessee · 12.0% below national average · Medium Demand
| City | Avg Salary | vs National | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nashville | $51,832 | -5.0% | Medium |
| Memphis | $45,830 | -16.0% | Medium |
Tennessee is home to a strong job market for Chefs and Head Cookss. The state's key industries — Healthcare, Manufacturing, Tourism — generate significant demand for skilled professionals. At $54,560 per year, Tennessee's Chefs and Head Cooks salaries are 12.0% lower than the national average.
The cost of living in Tennessee (index: 0.88) makes salaries stretch further than in higher-cost states. Entry-level professionals in Tennessee can expect to earn $32,466–$44,132, while experienced Chefs and Head Cookss can command $70,379–$80,847.
Looking ahead, the Chefs and Head Cooks profession in Tennessee is projected to grow at 4.0% annually. Major employers are actively hiring, and the state's investment in Healthcare continues to drive new opportunities for qualified candidates.
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What is the average Chefs and Head Cooks salary in Tennessee?The average Chefs and Head Cooks salary in Tennessee is $54,560 per year in 2026, which is 12.0% below the national average of $62,000.
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What city in Tennessee pays Chefs and Head Cookss the most?Major metro areas typically pay Chefs and Head Cookss the highest wages in Tennessee due to higher costs of living and competitive job markets.
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Is Tennessee a good state for Chefs and Head Cookss?Tennessee has a strong job market with major industries in Healthcare, Manufacturing, Tourism. This makes it one of the better states for Chefs and Head Cooks employment.
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How does Tennessee Chefs and Head Cooks salary compare to the US average?At $54,560/year, Tennessee Chefs and Head Cooks salaries are 12.0% lower than the national average of $62,000/year.