14. Indiana
Annual median wage: $36,710
Cost of living index: 87.9
Employment: 1,630
Even if Indiana’s wages for chefs and head cooks do not reach the national average, it is balanced very well by the state’s cheap living expenses. Indiana is the second most affordable state in America, which explains its growing population and a booming economy. It also has a high demand for chefs and head cooks, mainly because of its rapidly developing cities with high-end restaurants, hotels, and even casinos.