10 Highest Paying Countries for Chefs: Top Companies & Avg Salary

The 10 highest-paying countries for Chefs are Switzerland, Luxembourg, USA, Denmark, Belgium, Australia, Germany, Norway, Austria, and the Netherlands.

With a rise in food tourism and an interest in diverse cuisines, there has been a boom in the demand for professional chefs to ensure establishments can meet the elevated expectations of their guests. From bustling metropolitan cities to intimate food tours, the demand for chefs in various work settings has created a unique and lucrative job market on a global scale. 

This guide delves into the best countries for chefs wanting to explore career opportunities internationally. 

Do you know?

• The number of chefs and head cooks is projected to grow 5% from 2022 to 2032, which is faster than the average for all occupations. [1] 
• As per the U.S Bureau of Labour Statistics, the highest level of employment in Chefs and Head Cooks was in the Special Food Services industry at 2.64% as of May 2023. [2]

Quick Overview

Source:

• Cost of living: LivingCost (Refer to country-wise pages)

• Average Annual Base Salary: Talent, SalaryExpert (Refer to country-wise websites)

• The rest of the sources are marked as comments.
• The cost of living in different currencies was converted to USD using the Forbes Currency Converter on 10th Aug 2024.

10 Highest Paying Countries for Chef

1. Switzerland – Average Annual Salary (CHF 73,568)

Switzerland offers an array of diverse work environments for chefs for a successful career. The nation’s rich culinary heritage and world-class establishments, coupled with a high demand for skilled culinary professionals, make it the ideal place for individuals seeking Chef jobs abroad. 

The average Chef’s salary based on experience is as follows:

• Entry-level Chef – Chefs at this level can earn an annual salary of CHF 60,000.
• Experienced Chef – Experienced culinary professionals can earn up to CHF 117,000 annually.

2. Luxembourg – Average Annual Salary (EUR 47,840)

Despite its small size, Luxembourg has a dynamic culinary scene that draws its diversity from the nation’s strategic location. At the crossroads of France, Germany and Belgium, the country’s cuisine is heavily influenced by the myriad cultures of its neighbours. 

The emerging culinary scene and the high standard of living make it an ideal destination for culinary professionals.   

The average Chef’s salary based on experience is as follows:

• Entry-level Chef – Chefs at this level can earn an annual salary of EUR 39,000.
• Experienced Chef – Experienced culinary professionals can earn up to 75,000 annually. 

Also read: 9 important questions to ask your employer before accepting a job offer overseas.

3. USA – Average Annual Salary (USD 52,715)

America’s diverse population is reflected in its culinary scene and strong appreciation for food. This has led to a thriving restaurant industry and an increasing demand for newer dining experiences. The open and creative food industry in the United States of America makes it a compelling option for professional chefs wanting a robust career. 

The average Chef’s salary based on experience is as follows:

• Entry-level Chef – Chefs at this level can earn an annual salary of USD 39,000.
• Experienced Chef – Experienced culinary professionals can earn up to USD 92,000 annually.

Also read: Ultimate guide to understanding the cost of living in the USA.

4. Denmark – Average Annual Salary (DKK 436,463)

With a boom in the popularity of new Nordic cuisine, Denmark is at the forefront of culinary creativity and fine dining. Its innovative culinary scene, which goes beyond the class of French cooking techniques, is what makes Denmark stand out as an option for culinary jobs abroad. 

The average Chef’s salary based on experience is as follows:

• Entry-level Chef – Chefs at this level can earn an annual salary of DKK 318,530.
• Experienced Chef – Experienced culinary professionals can earn up to DKK 534,136 annually.

5. Belgium – Average Annual Salary (EUR 53,588)

From the classic moules-frites to the refined fine dining experiences, the culinary scene in Belgium offers diversity that caters to a wide range of preferences. This offers professional chefs the opportunity to challenge themselves and explore the boundaries of traditional cooking. 

The average Chef’s salary based on experience is as follows:

• Entry-level Chef – Chefs at this level can earn an annual salary of EUR 39,084.
• Experienced Chef – Experienced culinary professionals can earn up to EUR 65,540 annually.  

6. Australia – Average Annual Salary (AUD 69,137)

The ever-evolving culinary scene in Australia offers the opportunity to work in an industry where innovation and creativity are appreciated significantly. Aligning with modern culinary trends, Australia’s restaurant industry has a high demand for skilled chefs who bring high-class cuisine and an inspiring dining experience. 

The average Chef’s salary based on experience is as follows:

• Entry-level Chef – Chefs at this level can earn an annual salary of AUD 59,873.
• Experienced Chef – Experienced culinary professionals can earn up to AUD 85,000 annually.  

Also Read: Visiting Australia? 100+ Australian slangs & pronunciations for you MATE!

7. Germany – Average Annual Salary (EUR 31,200)

Germany’s strong focus on sustainability has greatly impacted its culinary scene, leading to the rise of low or zero-waste cooking trends. This creative culinary space offers valuable exposure and a great opportunity for professionals to embrace their innovative skills in diverse work settings.  

The average Chef’s salary based on experience is as follows:

• Entry-level Chef – Chefs at this level can earn an annual salary of EUR 27,300.
• Experienced Chef – Experienced Chef professionals can earn up to EUR 47,288 annually. 

Also read: What is the country code for Germany Complete A-Z Guide.

8. Norway – Average Annual Salary (NOK 582,129)

Norway’s diverse culinary scene offers culinary professionals the opportunity to work in unique work settings. From fine dining to cruise ships on the crystal waters of the Norwegian Sea, Norway offers an array of interesting opportunities for professional chefs. 

The average Chef’s salary based on experience is as follows:

• Entry-level Chef – Entry-level professionals can earn an annual salary of NOK 425,208.
• Experienced Chef – Experienced professionals can earn up to NOK 713,023. 

Also read:  5 salary negotiation tips that will get you paid what you’re worth.

9. Austria  – Average Annual Salary (EUR 50,556)

From Wiener Schnitzel and Sachertorte to fine dining cuisine, the Austrian restaurant industry demands experienced professionals with varying skill sets. This makes it the perfect choice for professionals wanting to polish their culinary skills while also learning the techniques of traditional Austrian cuisine. 

The average Chef’s salary based on experience is as follows:

• Entry-level Chef – Entry-level professionals can earn an annual salary of EUR 36,906 Chef.
• Experienced Chef – Experienced professionals can earn up to EUR 61,888 annually. 

Also read: Cost of living in Austria – single, family & student.

10. Netherlands – Average Annual Salary (EUR 49,297)

Amsterdam’s diverse population, in particular, has a high demand for international cuisines and fusion dishes. This provides culinary professionals the opportunity to explore Dutch cuisine as well as international cooking practices. 

The average Chef’s salary based on experience is as follows:

• Entry-level Chef – Entry-level professionals can earn an annual salary of EUR 35,988.
• Experienced Chef – Experienced professionals can earn up to EUR 60,347 annually. 

Also read: Average salary in the Netherlands: Salaries by city and experience.

Chef  jobs abroad: Country-wise salary

Note: The above table shows the average salaries for chefs in the top 10 countries. All the currencies were converted to USD (to create graphs) on 10th Aug 2024 at 2:20 HRS IST.

Currency conversion tool: 

https://www.forbes.com/advisor/in/money-transfer/currency-conversion-calculator/

Other emerging countries

With a rapid boom in food tourism and an increase in international cuisine due to rising food trends, the demand for skilled culinary professionals has been on the rise globally, leading to an array of job opportunities for Chefs in various countries. Here is a list of countries with a rising culinary scene: 

• Iceland
• Ireland
• United Arab Emirates
• Canada
• Finland

Different Types of Chef Jobs Overseas

Note: The above table illustrates the national average salary for the United States of America.

Source: Payscale

Do’s and Don’ts When Getting A Job Abroad

Do’s

• Understand and study the aspects of the local cuisine of your target country to adapt your skills and impress potential employers. 
• Learn basic phrases in the local language of your target country to build good communication in the workspace.  
• Being knowledgeable of the front-of-house practices can help understand cultural nuances. Keep up with the trends by researching and learning on the job. 
• Build a good network and remain respectful to colleagues and employers.

Don’ts

• Assuming that culinary techniques and preferences are universal. Different establishments often have different approaches in their practice. 
• Be unprepared for potential challenges like language barriers and cultural differences. 
• Limit your job search to high-end establishments. Explore options in local and traditional workspaces to gain experience. 

Before you go

With the global culinary scene experiencing growth and change, it is the ideal time to apply for culinary jobs abroad. The rising international job opportunities for Chefs offer unique work experiences and chances to showcase individual skills abroad. 

However, pursuing international job opportunities requires considering the cost of living, labour laws, the industry’s salary average and the choice of fund transfer service. 

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Download the Instarem App from the App Store or Google Play. 

FAQs

Q. How to get a Chef job in a foreign country?

Searching on global job portals like LinkedIn or Indeed or choosing apprentice positions under respected chefs in your target country can help you get chef jobs abroad. 

Q. Which is the best country for a Chef with the highest pay?

Switzerland offers the highest annual average salary for chefs, which ranges around CHF 73,568 (USD 85,023 ).  

Q. Which country has a demand for chefs?

Countries like Switzerland, Luxembourg, the United States of America, Denmark, Belgium, Australia, Germany, Norway, Austria and the Netherlands offer many jobs for chefs.

Q. Which company is the best for Chef?

Top companies in Switzerland, such as Nestlé S.A., Barry Callebaut AG, Lindt & Sprüngli AG and Emmi AG, offer great opportunities for Chefs wanting to work outside traditional restaurant settings. 

Q. What is the starting Chef salary abroad for a fresher Chef?

The entry-level salaries for Chef jobs in foreign countries for freshers can vary significantly across countries. Switzerland, for example, offers CHF 60,000 (USD 69,093)for entry-level Chefs.

Q. How secure are Chef jobs abroad?

The global surge in food tourism and trends has created a high demand for Chefs, creating a promising and lucrative market for culinary professionals globally.

Q. What is a Chef’s salary abroad per month?

A Chef’s salary abroad can vary depending on the country of employment. In popular countries like Switzerland, a Chef can expect to earn around CHF 6,143 (USD 7,074) per month. 

Q. What is a Chef’s salary per hour?

The per-hour salary for Chef jobs abroad can vary depending on the country of employment. Top countries like Switzerland offer around CHF 37.80 (USD 42.60) per hour. 

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Disclaimers:

This article is intended for informational purposes only. All details are accurate at the time of publishing. Instarem has no affiliation or relationship with the products or vendors mentioned.

*Fast meaning 75% of our transactions are completed in 15 minutes. Depending on the funding method.

@ When it comes to affordable exchange rates and fees, it’s worth noting that the cost will vary depending on how you choose to fund your transactions. Credit card funding and bank transfer fees can differ significantly. 

Note: Salary and cost of living are taken from different websites on 10th August 2024 and are subject to change.

Citations:

• [1]https://www.bls.gov/ooh/food-preparation-and-serving/chefs-and-head-cooks.htm.
• [2]https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes351011.htm#(8) .