How much does a chef earn in Germany?

The profession of chef is considered creative and demanding. But what about the earning potential? In this article, we take a closer look at the salary of chefs in Germany. We look at the average salaries in different federal states, the differences depending on qualifications and give you an insight into the future prospects of this profession.

The salary as a chef in Germany - per hour, month and year

Chefs in Germany earn different amounts depending on their experience and qualifications, according to data from the Federal Employment Agency. A career starter who has not completed training often earns less than an experienced chef in an upscale restaurant.

• Per hour: The average hourly pay for chefs is between 12 and 18 euros gross.
• Per month: A chef earns around 1,800 to 2,800 euros gross per month.
• Per year: The annual salary is between 22,000 and 34,000 euros gross.

Those who have completed an apprenticeship generally start with a higher salary than unskilled staff. However, the exact figures vary greatly depending on the region, type of company and professional experience.

‍Average salariesas a chef in Germany - by federal state

‍Thesalary differences between the federal states are considerable, as data from the Federal Employment Agency shows Chefs often earn more in southern federal states such as Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg than in northern or eastern Germany.

• Bavaria: On average 30,000 euros gross per year.
• Baden-Württemberg: Around 29,000 euros gross per year.
• Berlin: Approximately 26,000 euros gross per year.
• Saxony: On average 24,000 euros gross per year.
• North Rhine-Westphalia: Around 28,000 euros gross per year.

The Federal Employment Agency provides a good overview of the regional differences. If you would like to know more about how much another profession, such as a roofer, earns, you can also find information on WorkerHero.

‍How dothe salary differences as a chef in Germany come about?

‍Thesalary level depends on several factors: as shown by data from the Federal Employment Agency

1. Training: Chefs who have completed vocational training earn more on average than unskilled staff.
2. Experience: Professional experience plays a major role. A head chef in an upscale restaurant can earn up to 50,000 euros gross per year.
3. Type of business: Salary prospects are often better in Michelin-starred restaurants and hotels than in smaller restaurants or canteens.
4. Region: As described above, salaries vary considerably depending on the federal state.

Even without a degree, you can find jobs in Germany with good salary prospects. Take a look at our article on the best-paid professions without a degree.

‍Future prospectsand career opportunities as a chef in Germany

The demand for qualified chefs is high, especially in the catering and hotel industry, according to data from the Federal Employment Agency. Further training, e.g. to become a master chef or F&B manager, can significantly improve career opportunities and salaries. There are also attractive prospects for German chefs abroad, and anyone considering entering the catering industry should bear in mind that passion and resilience are important prerequisites. Other professions in the catering industry also offer attractive entry-level opportunities, as you can read in our article on the salary of a cleaner.

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