Culinary schools in San Jose, CA

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

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

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

School results

  1. CET-San Jose

    San Jose, CA · 4.4 mi · Private

    • Culinary arts
    • Electrician
    • HVAC technician
    • +4

  2. Mission College

    Santa Clara, CA · 11 mi · Public

    • Culinary arts
    • Automotive technician
    • Practical nursing (LPN/LVN)
    • +4

  3. Cabrillo College

    Aptos, CA · 22 mi · Public

    • Culinary arts
    • Welding
    • Medical assistant
    • +7

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.

Hear from the best fits near San Jose

One short form. Up to 3 schools send you costs, schedules and financial aid options. Free, with no obligation.

  • Compare real costs and start dates
  • Ask about financial aid and apprenticeships
  • Your info goes only to the schools you're matched with

Step 1 of 3: Your trade

Compare culinary schools

Free · Takes 60 seconds · No obligation

Frequently asked questions

What are the closest culinary arts schools to San Jose?

The closest are CET-San Jose (San Jose, 4 mi), Mission College (Santa Clara, 11 mi), and Cabrillo College (Aptos, 22 mi). In total, 3 schools within 30 miles teach culinary arts.

How much do culinary arts programs near San Jose cost?

For the 3 schools nearby that report it, the average yearly net price after aid ranges from $5,080 to $16,101. Ask each school for the full program cost, including tools, books and exam fees.

How much do chefs make near San Jose?

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 Jose?

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

Other programs near San Jose

All trade schools near San Jose