Culinary schools in Waukegan, IL

4 schools within 30 miles of Waukegan, IL offer culinary arts programs, and the closest is College of Lake County in Grayslake, 7 miles away. Chefs in Illinois earn a median $58,830 a year, according to the BLS.

Within 30 miles
4
Closest
7 mi
Public colleges
4
Median pay in IL
$58,830

4 culinary arts schools within 30 mi of Waukegan, IL

School results

  1. College of Lake County

    Grayslake, IL · 7.3 mi · Public

    • Culinary arts
    • Electrician
    • HVAC technician
    • +21

  2. Gateway Technical College

    Kenosha, WI · 16 mi · Public

    • Culinary arts
    • Electrician
    • HVAC technician
    • +30

  3. William Rainey Harper College

    Palatine, IL · 22 mi · Public

    • Culinary arts
    • HVAC technician
    • Welding
    • +20

  4. Hear from the best fits near Waukegan, IL

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  5. McHenry County College

    Crystal Lake, IL · 27 mi · Public

    • Culinary arts
    • Welding
    • CNC machining
    • +13

What chefs earn in Illinois

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

Chef salary in IllinoisHow to become a chef

Median pay
$58,830
$28.29 an hour
Typical range
$40,330–$88,420
10th to 90th percentile
Jobs in IL
8,290
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 Waukegan?

The closest are College of Lake County (Grayslake, 7 mi), Gateway Technical College (Kenosha, 16 mi), and William Rainey Harper College (Palatine, 22 mi). In total, 4 schools within 30 miles teach culinary arts.

How much do culinary arts programs near Waukegan cost?

For the 4 schools nearby that report it, the average yearly net price after aid ranges from $7,042 to $12,928. Ask each school for the full program cost, including tools, books and exam fees.

How much do chefs make near Waukegan?

Across Illinois, the median pay is $58,830 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 Waukegan?

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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