Culinary schools in Costa Mesa, CA
10 schools within 30 miles of Costa Mesa, CA offer culinary arts programs, and one is in Costa Mesa itself. Chefs in California earn a median $64,500 a year, according to the BLS.
- Within 30 miles
- 10
- Closest
- <1 mi
- Public colleges
- 10
- Median pay in CA
- $64,500
What chefs earn in California
Median pay means half earn more and half earn less. Pay grows with experience, certifications and overtime.
- Median pay
- $64,500
- $31.01 an hour
- Typical range
- $37,380–$101,870
- 10th to 90th percentile
- Jobs in CA
- 31,670
- Job growth, 2025–35
- +6.6%
- 25,200 openings a year (U.S.)
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025, and Employment Projections.
Hear from the best fits near Costa Mesa
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Frequently asked questions
What are the closest culinary arts schools to Costa Mesa?
The closest are Orange Coast College (Costa Mesa, under 1 mile), Santa Ana College (Santa Ana, 7 mi), and Cypress College (Cypress, 13 mi). In total, 10 schools within 30 miles teach culinary arts.
How much do culinary arts programs near Costa Mesa cost?
For the 10 schools nearby that report it, the average yearly net price after aid ranges from $2,424 to $13,250. Ask each school for the full program cost, including tools, books and exam fees.
How much do chefs make near Costa Mesa?
Across California, the median pay is $64,500 a year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay varies by employer, experience and certifications.
How do I choose a culinary arts school in Costa Mesa?
Ask each school about accreditation, total cost after financial aid, hands-on lab hours, certification exam prep, class sizes and job placement. Request info from two or three schools so you can compare their answers side by side.
Culinary schools in nearby cities
- Mission Viejo (15 mi)
- Anaheim (16 mi)
- Long Beach (17 mi)
- Glendora (33 mi)
- Riverside (35 mi)
- Pasadena (37 mi)
- Los Angeles (38 mi)
- Rancho Cucamonga (38 mi)
Other programs near Costa Mesa
- Electrician schools
- Carpentry schools
- Construction schools
- Industrial maintenance schools
- Drafting schools
- Diesel mechanic schools
- Auto body schools
- Aviation maintenance schools
- Flight schools
- CNA classes
- Dental hygiene schools
- Surgical tech schools
- EMT and paramedic schools
- Sonography schools
- Radiology tech schools
- Respiratory therapy schools