Culinary schools in San Diego, CA

3 schools within 30 miles of San Diego, CA offer culinary arts programs, and one is in San Diego itself. Chefs in California earn a median $64,500 a year, according to the BLS.

Within 30 miles
3
Closest
2 mi
Public colleges
3
Median pay in CA
$64,500

3 culinary arts schools within 30 mi of San Diego, CA

School results

  1. San Diego Mesa College

    San Diego, CA · 2.1 mi · Public

    • Culinary arts
    • Medical assistant
    • Dental assistant
    • +5

  2. Grossmont College

    El Cajon, CA · 7.5 mi · Public

    • Culinary arts
    • Respiratory therapist
    • Police academy & criminal justice

  3. Southwestern College

    Chula Vista, CA · 15 mi · Public

    • Culinary arts
    • Automotive technician
    • Medical assistant
    • +13

What chefs earn in California

Median pay means half earn more and half earn less. Pay grows with experience, certifications and overtime.

Chef salary in CaliforniaHow to become a chef

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.

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Frequently asked questions

What are the closest culinary arts schools to San Diego?

The closest are San Diego Mesa College (San Diego, 2 mi), Grossmont College (El Cajon, 8 mi), and Southwestern College (Chula Vista, 15 mi). In total, 3 schools within 30 miles teach culinary arts.

How much do culinary arts programs near San Diego cost?

For the 3 schools nearby that report it, the average yearly net price after aid ranges from $5,311 to $12,671. Ask each school for the full program cost, including tools, books and exam fees.

How much do chefs make near San Diego?

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 San Diego?

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.

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