Sous Chef Salary in San Diego, CA

Updated on Jan 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 $63,373 per year in San Diego, CA.

In San Diego, CA, a Sous Chef earns an average yearly salary of about $63,373. This figure reflects the strong demand for skilled kitchen professionals in the area. The salary range for Sous Chefs varies, with the lower end starting around $36,000, and top earners making up to $113,725.


As you progress in your career, you can expect to see significant increases in your salary. For instance, with experience and expertise, it is possible to earn upwards of $70,000 or more. Factors such as the type of establishment, the size of the kitchen, and your level of responsibility also play a crucial role in determining your pay.


Overall, working as a Sous Chef in San Diego can be rewarding both personally and financially. With a vibrant food scene and various opportunities available, you can build a satisfying career in this culinary field.

View Sous Chef Jobs in San Diego, CA

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

If you're seeking a high-paying Sous Chef position near San Diego, consider the lovely city of Coronado, where the average salary reaches an impressive $76,566. Solana Beach and Jamul also offer attractive salaries of $73,872 and $72,558 respectively. Other cities worth exploring include Del Mar and Rancho Santa Fe, with average salaries around $68,025 and $67,949.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Sous Chef jobs near San Diego, CA, highlighting Coronado, CA with the highest at $76,566 and El Cajon, CA with the lowest at $56,231.
  1. Coronado, CA
    Average Salary: $76,566
    Working as a chef in Coronado offers a beautiful coastal vibe. The culinary scene thrives with restaurants like Peohe's and the Coronado Brewing Company, providing great opportunities to showcase your skills.
    Find Sous Chef jobs in Coronado, CA


  2. Solana Beach, CA
    Average Salary: $73,872
    Solana Beach features a vibrant food culture with fresh local ingredients. You can find exciting places like the Solana Beach Farmer's Market and top restaurants that encourage creative culinary expression.
    Find Sous Chef jobs in Solana Beach, CA


  3. Jamul, CA
    Average Salary: $72,558
    In Jamul, chefs get the chance to work in a unique mountainous setting. The area is growing in popularity for farm-to-table dining, allowing you to connect with local farms for fresh produce.
    Find Sous Chef jobs in Jamul, CA


  4. Del Mar, CA
    Average Salary: $68,025
    Del Mar presents a beautiful oceanfront experience with gourmet dining options. With famous spots like Jake's and the Del Mar Plaza, chefs can thrive in a lively culinary community.
    Find Sous Chef jobs in Del Mar, CA


  5. Rancho Santa Fe, CA
    Average Salary: $67,949
    Rancho Santa Fe offers an upscale dining scene and a focus on high-quality ingredients. Working in this area allows you to develop elegant dishes for discerning clientele in exclusive venues.
    Find Sous Chef jobs in Rancho Santa Fe, CA


  6. La Jolla, CA
    Average Salary: $67,425
    La Jolla boasts a stunning ocean view and a wealth of dining options. Prominent restaurants like George's at the Cove allow chefs to innovate and deliver exceptional dining experiences.
    Find Sous Chef jobs in La Jolla, CA


  7. La Mesa, CA
    Average Salary: $63,095
    La Mesa features a charming community with growing dining establishments. Chefs can explore opportunities in local favorites and enjoy the welcoming neighborhood atmosphere.
    Find Sous Chef jobs in La Mesa, CA


  8. Alpine, CA
    Average Salary: $61,692
    Alpine presents a homey feel with a touch of rustic charm. The diverse options for local ingredients make it a perfect place for creativity in the kitchen.
    Find Sous Chef jobs in Alpine, CA


  9. Chula Vista, CA
    Average Salary: $59,708
    Chula Vista offers a blend of cultural flavors and diverse dining experiences. You will find many restaurants showcasing Latin cuisine, giving chefs the chance to work with vibrant spices and fresh ingredients.
    Find Sous Chef jobs in Chula Vista, CA


  10. El Cajon, CA
    Average Salary: $56,231
    El Cajon has a rich culinary scene with many ethnic restaurants. Chefs here can experiment with international flavors while catering to a broad clientele.
    Find Sous Chef jobs in El Cajon, CA

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

In San Diego, some of the best-paying companies for Sous Chef positions include Sodexo Live!, Paradise Point Resort & Spa, and Hilton, with average salaries exceeding $100,000. STK Steakhouse and Herb and Wood also offer competitive pay, close to $95,000. Job seekers can look to these top employers for rewarding opportunities in the culinary field.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Sous Chef jobs in San Diego, CA, highlighting Sodexo live! with the highest at $106,563 and Westmont Living with the lowest at $85,000.
  1. Sodexo live!
    Average Salary: $106,563
    Sodexo live! focuses on delivering exceptional dining experiences in hospitality. They hire Sous Chefs to prepare high-quality meals in various venues. Their locations include event spaces and cultural institutions across San Diego.


  2. Paradise Point Resort & Spa
    Average Salary: $102,167
    At Paradise Point Resort & Spa, Sous Chefs create delightful dishes for guests in a beautiful beach setting. The resort features several dining options, including casual and fine dining, offering a great opportunity for culinary professionals.


  3. Hilton
    Average Salary: $100,923
    Hilton has a strong reputation for providing excellent hospitality. As a Sous Chef, you will oversee kitchen operations in their San Diego hotels and contribute to various dining venues focused on high-quality food and service.


  4. STK Steakhouse
    Average Salary: $95,000
    STK Steakhouse combines a high-energy atmosphere with delicious steak offerings. Sous Chefs here play a key role in menu development and kitchen management, serving customers in the heart of San Diego's vibrant dining scene.


  5. Herb and Wood
    Average Salary: $94,000
    Herb and Wood is known for its focus on wood-fired dishes and seasonal ingredients. The Sous Chef position offers a chance to work in a creative kitchen environment, enhancing the dining experience in one of San Diego's top restaurants.


  6. BMRS
    Average Salary: $91,875
    BMRS provides unique culinary experiences through its catering services. As a Sous Chef, you will lead kitchen teams, working in various locations across San Diego to create memorable meals for special events.


  7. the Chef Agency
    Average Salary: $88,393
    The Chef Agency connects skilled culinary professionals with leading restaurants. Sous Chefs can find various opportunities in San Diego's diverse dining scene, collaborating with top chefs and gaining valuable experience.


  8. Sodexo
    Average Salary: $86,639
    Sodexo is a global leader in food services and facilities management. As a Sous Chef, you will manage kitchen staff and maintain quality standards in various institutional settings in San Diego, ensuring a great dining experience.


  9. La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club, Inc.
    Average Salary: $86,125
    La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club offers a stunning setting for dining. Sous Chefs here prepare exquisite meals for club members and guests, contributing to a memorable experience at this prestigious location.


  10. Westmont Living
    Average Salary: $85,000
    Westmont Living focuses on providing exceptional culinary services in senior living communities. Sous Chefs in San Diego work to create nutritious and appealing meals that cater to the dietary needs of residents.

There are 6,194 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
6,194 Job Openings
Understanding the Sous Chef Role & How to Become One | ReadySetHire