Chefs and Head Cooks Salary in South Dakota (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 Dakota is $48,470 per year (gross, before tax) — 22.4% below the US national median of $62,470 for this occupation. Figures are from BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2025). Around 300 people work in this occupation in South Dakota. Negotiating an offer in South Dakota? A good salary negotiation guide helps you make the case for the upper percentiles.
South Dakota Salary Percentiles
| Percentile | Annual (gross) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 10th | $37,450 | Entry level / lowest decile |
| 25th | $39,650 | Early career |
| 50th (median) | $48,470 | Typical pay |
| 75th | $51,870 | Experienced |
| 90th | $57,820 | Senior / highest decile |
Career Essentials
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Start $1 Trial →How South Dakota 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% |
| South Dakota | $48,470 | -22.4% |
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 Dakota?
The median salary in South Dakota is $48,470 per year (gross, before tax), based on BLS OES May 2025 data. The mean is $47,900.
How does South Dakota pay compare to the US national average?
South Dakota is 22.4% below 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