The job market for culinary chefs in the United States

There are currently an estimated 146,500 culinary chefs in the United States. The culinary chef job market is expected to grow by 9.6% between 2016 and 2026.

How employable are culinary chefs?

CareerExplorer rates culinary chefs with a C employability rating, meaning this career should provide moderate employment opportunities for the foreseeable future. Over the next 10 years, it is expected the US will need 23,200 culinary chefs. That number is based on 14,100 additional culinary chefs, and the retirement of 9,100 existing culinary chefs.

Are culinary chefs in demand?

The fast pace and long hours demanded by this occupation typically lead to a high rate of turnover. Not surprisingly, therefore, the majority of job openings for culinary chefs will result from the need to replace those who choose to leave or retire from this occupation. Competition for the most prestigious and highest paying jobs at high-end restaurants and hotels is expected to be very strong. Job prospects will be best for chefs who combine a culinary degree with several years of experience, proven creativity, and business skills. Demand for chefs is not created solely by restaurants; exclusive retirement communities, convention centres, cruise ship companies, and private hospitals consistently hire culinary experts. Some established movie production companies are also employing culinary chefs to literally ‘cater’ to the actors, extras, and crews on their movie sets. General population growth is expected to create demand for more fine dining experiences, resulting in continued demand for innovative culinary chefs.

What’s the supply of culinary chefs?

The culinary chef industry is concentrated in California, New York, Florida

Culinary Chef job market by state