Chef Hourly Wages (US, 2020): Median $27.57, Range $17–$43

Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2020) for chefs & head cooks:

• Median: $27.57/hr
• Top 10%: >$42.71/hr
• Bottom 10%: <$17.15/hr

Key variables: formal training, experience, metro vs. rural, fine-dining vs. casual, restaurant size. Benefits (health, PTO, bonuses) often supplement base pay.