Sous Chef Salary in San Diego, CA

Updated on May 09, 2025
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City
Salary

How much does a Sous Chef make in San Diego, CA?

The average salary for a Sous Chef is $63,438 per year in San Diego, CA.

In San Diego, CA, a Sous Chef earns a competitive salary. On average, a Sous Chef makes about $63,438 per year. This salary can vary based on experience and the type of restaurant. Those with more experience often earn more. Working at a high-end restaurant can also lead to higher pay.

Several factors can influence a Sous Chef's salary. These include the size of the restaurant, the location, and the type of cuisine. Sous Chefs in larger, more upscale restaurants may earn more than those in smaller, casual eateries. The demand for chefs in San Diego can also affect salaries. Job seekers should consider these factors when looking for a Sous Chef position.

Sous Chef jobs in San Diego, CA

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

Sous Chefs in the San Diego area can find high salaries in several nearby cities. Solana Beach offers the highest average salary at $76,357. La Jolla follows closely with an average of $75,218. These figures make these locations attractive for culinary professionals seeking better pay. Other cities like Chula Vista and Jamul also provide competitive salaries. Chula Vista pays an average of $72,926, while Jamul offers $72,558. These cities offer a balance of good pay and a quality lifestyle. Job seekers should consider these options when looking for Sous Chef positions.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Sous Chef jobs near San Diego, CA, highlighting Solana Beach, CA with the highest at $76,357 and Alpine, CA with the lowest at $56,038.
  1. Solana Beach, CA
    Average Salary: $76,357
    In Solana Beach, a Sous Chef can expect to work in a vibrant culinary scene, with many restaurants offering fresh, local ingredients. Opportunities exist in upscale dining establishments, such as the renowned The Cottage Restaurant, where creativity and skill are highly valued.
    Find Sous Chef jobs in Solana Beach, CA


  2. La Jolla, CA
    Average Salary: $75,218
    La Jolla offers a dynamic environment for culinary professionals. Sous Chefs here often find themselves in high-quality restaurants that emphasize fresh seafood and innovative dishes. Working at places like The Cottage on the Cove can provide a chance to refine skills and gain recognition.
    Find Sous Chef jobs in La Jolla, CA


  3. Chula Vista, CA
    Average Salary: $72,926
    Chula Vista presents a diverse culinary landscape with many restaurants looking for skilled Sous Chefs. This city offers a mix of casual and fine dining options, allowing for a variety of experiences. The local market provides fresh ingredients, enhancing the cooking experience.
    Find Sous Chef jobs in Chula Vista, CA


  4. Jamul, CA
    Average Salary: $72,558
    Jamul offers a more relaxed culinary environment, perfect for Sous Chefs who enjoy a slower pace. The focus here is on quality and community, with many local restaurants valuing fresh, homemade dishes. Working in Jamul can be a great way to build a strong foundation in cooking.
    Find Sous Chef jobs in Jamul, CA


  5. Coronado, CA
    Average Salary: $70,378
    Coronado is known for its elegant dining scene, making it a great place for Sous Chefs. The island setting provides a unique atmosphere, with many restaurants offering stunning views and high-quality ingredients. Working here can offer a chance to refine culinary skills in a picturesque setting.
    Find Sous Chef jobs in Coronado, CA


  6. El Cajon, CA
    Average Salary: $60,250
    El Cajon offers a diverse culinary market, with many restaurants seeking skilled Sous Chefs. The city's growing food scene provides opportunities to work in both casual and fine dining establishments. The local community values fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, enhancing the culinary experience.
    Find Sous Chef jobs in El Cajon, CA


  7. Del Mar, CA
    Average Salary: $60,121
    Del Mar provides a charming environment for culinary professionals. The city's focus on quality and fresh ingredients makes it a great place for Sous Chefs. Working in Del Mar can offer a chance to refine skills in a supportive and creative atmosphere.
    Find Sous Chef jobs in Del Mar, CA


  8. La Mesa, CA
    Average Salary: $59,931
    La Mesa offers a mix of culinary opportunities, with many restaurants looking for skilled Sous Chefs. The city's diverse dining scene provides a variety of experiences, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. Working here can offer a chance to develop a wide range of culinary skills.
    Find Sous Chef jobs in La Mesa, CA


  9. Rancho Santa Fe, CA
    Average Salary: $59,431
    Rancho Santa Fe is known for its upscale dining scene, making it a great place for Sous Chefs. The city's focus on quality and luxury provides a high-end environment for culinary professionals. Working here can offer a chance to refine skills and gain recognition in a prestigious setting.
    Find Sous Chef jobs in Rancho Santa Fe, CA


  10. Alpine, CA
    Average Salary: $56,038
    Alpine offers a more laid-back culinary environment, perfect for Sous Chefs who enjoy a slower pace. The focus here is on quality and community, with many local restaurants valuing fresh, homemade dishes. Working in Alpine can be a great way to build a strong foundation in cooking.
    Find Sous Chef jobs in Alpine, CA

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

STK Steakhouse leads the way for Sous Chef salaries in San Diego, offering an average of $90,000 annually. The Chef Agency and Hilton also provide competitive pay, with averages around $87,000 and $84,000 respectively. Del Frisco's Grille and EVANS HOTELS follow closely, each offering salaries above $78,000.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Sous Chef jobs in San Diego, CA, highlighting STK Steakhouse with the highest at $90,000 and Davidson Hospitality Group with the lowest at $71,708.
  1. STK Steakhouse
    Average Salary: $90,000
    STK Steakhouse offers exciting Sous Chef positions in San Diego. The company is known for its vibrant atmosphere and high-quality dining experience. STK Steakhouse is located in the heart of San Diego, providing a dynamic environment for culinary professionals.


  2. the Chef Agency
    Average Salary: $87,363
    The Chef Agency provides Sous Chef opportunities in San Diego. This company is recognized for its commitment to culinary excellence. The Chef Agency operates in various locations across San Diego, offering diverse experiences for Sous Chefs.


  3. Hilton
    Average Salary: $84,167
    Hilton offers Sous Chef positions in San Diego. The company is known for its hospitality and upscale dining experience. Hilton operates multiple locations in San Diego, providing a range of opportunities for Sous Chefs.


  4. Del Frisco's Grille
    Average Salary: $79,444
    Del Frisco's Grille offers Sous Chef positions in San Diego. The company is known for its elegant and sophisticated dining experience. Del Frisco's Grille is located in San Diego, offering a refined environment for culinary professionals.


  5. EVANS HOTELS
    Average Salary: $78,729
    EVANS HOTELS offers Sous Chef positions in San Diego. The company is known for its luxurious and comfortable accommodations. EVANS HOTELS operates in San Diego, providing a high-quality environment for Sous Chefs.


  6. Palisociety
    Average Salary: $76,818
    Palisociety offers Sous Chef positions in San Diego. The company is known for its modern and innovative dining experience. Palisociety is located in San Diego, offering a contemporary environment for culinary professionals.


  7. La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club, Inc.
    Average Salary: $76,088
    La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club, Inc. offers Sous Chef positions in San Diego. The company is known for its prestigious and exclusive atmosphere. The club is located in La Jolla, providing a unique environment for Sous Chefs.


  8. Omni Hotels
    Average Salary: $75,500
    Omni Hotels offers Sous Chef positions in San Diego. The company is known for its luxurious and welcoming accommodations. Omni Hotels operates in San Diego, providing a high-end environment for Sous Chefs.


  9. North Italia
    Average Salary: $71,944
    North Italia offers Sous Chef positions in San Diego. The company is known for its Italian cuisine and family-friendly atmosphere. North Italia is located in San Diego, offering a warm and inviting environment for culinary professionals.


  10. Davidson Hospitality Group
    Average Salary: $71,708
    Davidson Hospitality Group offers Sous Chef positions in San Diego. The company is known for its diverse range of dining experiences. Davidson Hospitality Group operates in San Diego, providing various opportunities for Sous Chefs.

Currently 4,151 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.
Position
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Sous Chef
4,151 Job Openings