Sous Chef Salary in San Diego, CA

Updated on Mar 08, 2025
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How much does a Sous Chef make in San Diego, CA?

The average salary for a Sous Chef is $63,691 per year in San Diego, CA.

In San Diego, CA, a Sous Chef can expect to earn a competitive salary. The average yearly salary for this position is around $63,691. Many factors influence this amount, including experience, skills, and the type of establishment.


For entry-level positions, salaries start at about $36,000. As Sous Chefs gain more experience and expertise, they can earn significantly higher pay. Mid-level chefs typically make between $50,000 and $70,000, while those in senior roles can command salaries exceeding $100,000.


The job market for Sous Chefs in San Diego is vibrant. Many restaurants and hotels seek skilled chefs, making this a promising career path. If you have a passion for culinary arts and desire to grow, pursuing a Sous Chef position in San Diego can lead to rewarding opportunities.

View Sous Chef Jobs in San Diego, CA

What are the highest paying cities for Sous Chef near San Diego, CA?

Sous Chef positions in the San Diego area offer exciting opportunities, especially in cities like Coronado, where the average salary reaches $77,356. Other high-paying locations include Solana Beach at $73,872 and Jamul at $72,558. These cities provide great potential for career growth and financial rewards for skilled culinary professionals.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Sous Chef jobs near San Diego, CA, highlighting Coronado, CA with the highest at $77,356 and El Cajon, CA with the lowest at $56,231.
  1. Coronado, CA
    Average Salary: $77,356
    Coronado offers a vibrant dining scene with stunning views of the San Diego Bay. Working in this city allows chefs to showcase their skills in famous establishments like the Hotel del Coronado, known for its exquisite culinary offerings.
    Find Sous Chef jobs in Coronado, CA


  2. Solana Beach, CA
    Average Salary: $73,872
    In Solana Beach, chefs enjoy a blend of coastal charm and a laid-back atmosphere. The area is home to several popular restaurants and cafes, where fresh, local ingredients are key to creating delicious dishes.
    Find Sous Chef jobs in Solana Beach, CA


  3. Jamul, CA
    Average Salary: $72,558
    Jamul is a unique area where chefs can embrace a relaxed environment and cater to local tastes. This rural setting offers opportunities in family-run restaurants, showcasing homemade meals and welcoming hospitality.
    Find Sous Chef jobs in Jamul, CA


  4. La Jolla, CA
    Average Salary: $69,045
    La Jolla attracts food lovers with its upscale dining options and beautiful scenery. Working here, chefs can enhance their creativity in well-known spots like George's at the Cove, offering fresh seafood and stunning ocean views.
    Find Sous Chef jobs in La Jolla, CA


  5. Rancho Santa Fe, CA
    Average Salary: $68,614
    Known for its luxury homes and high-end clientele, Rancho Santa Fe presents exciting opportunities for skilled chefs. Many exclusive restaurants and private clubs seek culinary talent to create delightful dining experiences.
    Find Sous Chef jobs in Rancho Santa Fe, CA


  6. Del Mar, CA
    Average Salary: $68,368
    Del Mar is famous for its beachside atmosphere and seasonal events. Chefs here can work in popular seafood restaurants and participate in summer festivals that celebrate local cuisine and flavors.
    Find Sous Chef jobs in Del Mar, CA


  7. Chula Vista, CA
    Average Salary: $63,779
    Chula Vista boasts a rich cultural diversity that influences its culinary scene. Chefs can work in vibrant restaurants that serve a mix of cuisines, from Mexican to Asian, creating a dynamic and exciting work environment.
    Find Sous Chef jobs in Chula Vista, CA


  8. La Mesa, CA
    Average Salary: $63,095
    La Mesa has a friendly community and a growing food scene. Chefs can thrive in locally owned eateries that focus on farm-to-table dining, using fresh ingredients from nearby farms.
    Find Sous Chef jobs in La Mesa, CA


  9. Alpine, CA
    Average Salary: $61,692
    Alpine offers a unique setting with beautiful landscapes and a cozy dining atmosphere. Chefs can work in charming restaurants that focus on comfort food, making use of local ingredients in their cuisines.
    Find Sous Chef jobs in Alpine, CA


  10. El Cajon, CA
    Average Salary: $56,231
    El Cajon presents a rich blend of cultural influences in its food offerings. Chefs can explore various international cuisines, working in family-owned restaurants that embrace authenticity and tradition.
    Find Sous Chef jobs in El Cajon, CA

What are the best paying companies for Sous Chef in San Diego, CA?

In San Diego, several companies offer competitive salaries for Sous Chef positions. Paradise Point Resort & Spa leads the way with an average salary of $102,167, closely followed by Hilton at $102,107. Other notable employers include Sodexo live! at $101,500 and STK Steakhouse at $96,000, highlighting a strong market for skilled culinary professionals in the area.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Sous Chef jobs in San Diego, CA, highlighting Paradise Point Resort & Spa with the highest at $102,167 and Westmont Living with the lowest at $85,000.
  1. Paradise Point Resort & Spa
    Average Salary: $102,167
    At Paradise Point Resort & Spa, Sous Chefs play a crucial role in delivering delicious and high-quality meals. Located on Mission Bay, this resort offers a relaxing atmosphere and beautiful views. You'll find opportunities to create memorable dining experiences for guests.


  2. Hilton
    Average Salary: $102,107
    Hilton provides exciting opportunities for Sous Chefs to work in a fast-paced environment. With locations across San Diego, including downtown and near the airport, Sous Chefs help maintain high culinary standards and create diverse menus for guests.


  3. Sodexo live!
    Average Salary: $101,500
    Sodexo live! focuses on delivering exceptional dining experiences at events and venues. As a Sous Chef here, you’ll work with a talented team to provide service at locations like the San Diego Convention Center and other key sites.


  4. STK Steakhouse
    Average Salary: $96,000
    STK Steakhouse offers a modern dining experience with a lively atmosphere. Sous Chefs at STK are responsible for crafting signature dishes and maintaining kitchen efficiency while working in an upscale environment in downtown San Diego.


  5. Herb and Wood
    Average Salary: $94,000
    Herb and Wood is known for its creative and seasonal cuisine. Sous Chefs at this popular restaurant in Little Italy contribute to a dynamic kitchen by developing innovative dishes that excite guests and leave a lasting impression.


  6. BMRS
    Average Salary: $91,875
    BMRS offers exceptional catering services, allowing Sous Chefs to showcase their talent in a variety of settings. The job includes working on unique menus for events across San Diego, providing a versatile and rewarding culinary experience.


  7. the Chef Agency
    Average Salary: $88,993
    the Chef Agency specializes in connecting talented chefs with leading restaurants. As a Sous Chef, you can explore opportunities across top establishments in San Diego, gaining valuable experience and exposure to diverse culinary environments.


  8. Sodexo
    Average Salary: $86,639
    Sodexo provides food services for businesses and institutions. As a Sous Chef, you will contribute to creating nutritious meals in various locations throughout San Diego, focusing on quality and customer satisfaction.


  9. La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club, Inc.
    Average Salary: $86,125
    At La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club, Inc., Sous Chefs have the chance to work in a beautiful coastal setting. They prepare meals that enhance the guest experience at this resort-style club, located right by the beach.


  10. Westmont Living
    Average Salary: $85,000
    Westmont Living operates various senior living communities. Sous Chefs at these locations help create healthy and tasteful menus for residents, focusing on nutrition and satisfaction while providing a warm and inviting dining atmosphere.

There are 6,475 Sous Chef job openings nationwide!

How's the job market for a Sous Chef in the US?

Learn what a Sous Chef does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Sous Chef today.
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Sous Chef
6,475 Job Openings
Understanding the Sous Chef Role & How to Become One | ReadySetHire