Chefs and Head Cooks Salary in South Carolina (2025)
✓ Sourced directly from BLS OES · Checked for accuracy at every rebuild · First published: 2026-08-25 · Last updated: 2026-10-25
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Overview
The median wage for chefs and head cooks in South Carolina is $71,860 per year (gross, before tax) — 15.0% above the US national median of $62,470 for this occupation. Figures are from BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2025). Around 3,000 people work in this occupation in South Carolina. Negotiating an offer in South Carolina? A good salary negotiation guide helps you make the case for the upper percentiles.
South Carolina Salary Percentiles
| Percentile | Annual (gross) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 10th | $47,640 | Entry level / lowest decile |
| 25th | $60,120 | Early career |
| 50th (median) | $71,860 | Typical pay |
| 75th | $79,050 | Experienced |
| 90th | $88,880 | Senior / highest decile |
Career Essentials
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Start $1 Trial →How South Carolina Compares
| State | Median salary | vs national |
|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island | $79,930 | +27.9% |
| Hawaii | $77,360 | +23.8% |
| District of Columbia | $76,420 | +22.3% |
| Washington | $76,010 | +21.7% |
| North Dakota | $74,740 | +19.6% |
| New Jersey | $74,280 | +18.9% |
| Wyoming | $73,170 | +17.1% |
| South Carolina | $71,860 | +15.0% |
| New York | $70,670 | +13.1% |
| Tennessee | $69,810 | +11.7% |
All states for chefs and head cooks →
Recommended Gear & Prep
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average salary for a chefs and head cooks in South Carolina?
The median salary in South Carolina is $71,860 per year (gross, before tax), based on BLS OES May 2025 data. The mean is $70,780.
How does South Carolina pay compare to the US national average?
South Carolina is 15.0% above the US national median of $62,470 for this occupation.
Which US state pays chefs and head cooks the most?
Rhode Island has the highest median pay for this occupation at $79,930 per year. See the state comparison table above for more.
Data: BLS OES, May 2025 · Page built 2026-10-25