How much does a Pastry Chef make?
Pastry chefs craft delicious and beautiful desserts for restaurants, hotels, and bakeries. They work with dough, icing, and fillings to create cakes, pastries, and other sweet treats. The pay for pastry chefs can vary based on experience and location. On average, a pastry chef makes about $48,786 per year.
Different levels of experience bring different salaries. Entry-level pastry chefs, just starting out, might earn around $28,000 each year. Those with more experience can make up to $92,500 annually. The best-paid pastry chefs work in big cities like New York or San Francisco, where the cost of living is high.
What are the highest paying cities for a Pastry Chef?

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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $61,488
Boston offers a vibrant food scene where culinary skills shine. Bakeries and high-end restaurants here value creativity. Look for opportunities at establishments like Flour Bakery and Saffron.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $60,769
In the nation's capital, the culinary arts flourish. Many hotels and fine dining spots seek skilled bakers. Consider options at The Ritz-Carlton or The Watergate.
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Kansas City, MO
Average Salary: $60,721
Kansas City is known for its love of barbecue and pastries. Local bakeries offer a chance to create delicious treats. Explore positions at companies like Kamp Koral or Boulevard Bakery & Cafe.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $59,902
Chicago's food culture is rich and diverse. Many restaurants and bakeries here seek pastry professionals. Check out jobs at Girl and the Goat or Blackbird Restaurant.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $59,661
San Francisco boasts a thriving food scene. Many trendy bakeries and cafes seek innovative pastry chefs. Look for openings at Tartine Bakery or Ben's Chili Bowl.
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Oklahoma City, OK
Average Salary: $58,688
Oklahoma City is a growing culinary hub. Local businesses are always on the lookout for skilled bakers. Consider places like Urban Roots or The Crafted Pint.
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Nashville, TN
Average Salary: $57,341
Nashville offers a lively food scene. Many bakeries and restaurants here need pastry experts. Explore jobs at Biscuit Love or The Pancake Pantry.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $57,230
Sacramento has a dynamic culinary landscape. Many local bakeries and eateries value pastry skills. Check out positions at Wild Wings Café or Biscuit Belly.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $56,542
Los Angeles' food scene is dynamic and ever-evolving. Many trendy bakeries and restaurants seek pastry chefs. Look for jobs at Campanile or La Brea Bakery.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $55,922
Seattle's food culture is vibrant and creative. Many local bakeries and restaurants need pastry chefs. Explore opportunities at Boudin Bakery or Café Presse.
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What are the best companies a Pastry Chef can work for?

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Marriott International
Average Salary: $80,746
Marriott International offers exciting opportunities for Pastry Chefs in many locations. They provide a vibrant and creative environment. Their hotels span across the globe, offering a chance to work in many different places.
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Culinary Institute of America
Average Salary: $72,786
The Culinary Institute of America is a prestigious institution. They look for talented Pastry Chefs who are passionate about teaching and learning. They operate several campuses across the United States, providing a rich, educational experience.
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Aramark
Average Salary: $72,758
Aramark provides a dynamic work environment for Pastry Chefs. They offer opportunities in a variety of settings, from schools to sports venues. Their locations are widespread, giving chefs many options for where they might like to work.
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CocuSocial
Average Salary: $68,750
CocuSocial is known for its vibrant culinary projects. They provide Pastry Chefs with a chance to be creative and innovative. They operate mainly in the United States, offering exciting roles in different cities.
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Goodwin Recruiting
Average Salary: $66,877
Goodwin Recruiting places Pastry Chefs in top-tier positions. They focus on matching chefs with the best opportunities. Their placements are located across the country, providing a wide range of options.
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Do & Co
Average Salary: $64,350
Do & Co is a global catering company. They offer Pastry Chefs a chance to work in high-end events. Their locations are mostly in Europe and the United States, giving chefs a chance to explore international opportunities.
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Bon Appétit
Average Salary: $61,496
Bon Appétit provides diverse opportunities for Pastry Chefs. They work in a variety of settings, from schools to hospitals. Their operations are mainly in the United States, offering many options for where chefs might like to work.
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Compass Group
Average Salary: $61,269
Compass Group offers Pastry Chefs the chance to work in different environments. They have positions in schools, hospitals, and businesses. Their locations are spread across many countries, offering a wide range of opportunities.
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Inn at Little Washington
Average Salary: $60,881
The Inn at Little Washington is a renowned hospitality destination. They look for talented Pastry Chefs to join their team. They operate in the beautiful setting of Washington, offering a unique experience for chefs.
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Kalahari Resorts & Conventions
Average Salary: $60,100
Kalahari Resorts & Conventions offers Pastry Chefs a fun and energetic work environment. They provide opportunities in family-friendly settings. Their resorts are located in various states across the United States.
How to earn more as a Pastry Chef?
In the competitive world of culinary arts, Pastry Chefs can find several ways to enhance their earning potential. With dedication and strategic efforts, it is possible to increase income while also advancing one's career.
First, consider gaining specialized certifications or degrees in pastry making. These can set a chef apart from the competition. Look for programs that offer hands-on training and advanced techniques. Second, focus on building a strong portfolio that showcases unique creations and skills. A well-crafted portfolio can open doors to higher-paying positions. Third, seek opportunities in high-demand locations such as major cities or tourist destinations. These areas often offer higher salaries to attract top talent. Fourth, develop a personal brand through social media and food blogs. A strong online presence can lead to freelance work and higher-paying gigs. Finally, continuously learn and innovate by experimenting with new flavors and techniques. Staying ahead of trends can make a chef more valuable to employers.
By focusing on these factors, Pastry Chefs can work towards earning more in their careers.
Here are key factors to consider:
- Earn specialized certifications or degrees in pastry making.
- Build a strong portfolio that showcases unique creations and skills.
- Seek opportunities in high-demand locations with higher salaries.
- Develop a personal brand through social media and food blogs.
- Continuously learn and innovate by experimenting with new flavors and techniques.



