Is It Worth It? How Much Is a Private Chef and Why More People Are Booking Them
The Rise of the Private Chef: More Than a Luxury
Once thought to be a luxury for celebrities and CEOs, private chefs are now being booked by busy families, professionals, and wellness-focused individuals across the country. Whether it’s for weekly meal prep, monthly cooking services, or special events, more people are asking the big question: “How much is a private chef — and is it really worth it?”
In this blog, we’ll break down what a private chef actually does, how pricing works (including how much a private chef costs per month and per year), and why so many are saying yes to bringing one into their homes.
What Does a Private Chef Actually Do?
At The Makeshift Chef, our private chef services go far beyond cooking. Here’s what’s typically included:
Custom menu planning tailored to your dietary needs
Grocery shopping (often organic and local)
In-home cooking with fresh, quality ingredients
Kitchen cleanup after every session
Restaurant-quality meals, ready for the week
How Much Is a Private Chef? Let’s Break It Down
Private chef pricing can vary, but here are some common breakdowns:
How much does a private chef cost per month?
Clients who book weekly in-home prep generally pay between $800 to $2,500 per month, depending on the number of meals, family size, and dietary complexity. At The Makeshift Chef, our clients typically invest $1,000–$1,800/month for 4–5 dinners per week, completely customized.
How much is a private chef for a year?
Hiring a chef for ongoing service could range from $10,000 to $30,000+ per year, depending on service level and frequency. Many families find the year-round investment pays off in health, convenience, and time saved.
💡 Pro tip: We offer flexible plans to fit your needs. Contact us for a custom quote.
Why Are More Families Booking Private Chefs?
It’s not just about luxury. It’s about lifestyle. Here’s why the demand is rising:
✅ Time-Saving
Skip the planning, shopping, and cooking. Reclaim your time.
✅ Health Goals Made Easier
We align every meal with your nutrition goals — no guesswork.
✅ Zero Food Stress
No more “what’s for dinner?” panic. Just meals you love, ready to go.
✅ Restaurant-Quality at Home
Enjoy high-quality food from the comfort of your kitchen — no tips or reservations required.
Is a Private Chef Worth It Compared to Other Options?
Let’s break it down:
Meal Kit Subscription – $500–$800/month
Pros: Semi-convenient, ingredients included
Cons: Still need to cook, limited flavor
Dining Out 3x a Week – $1,200–$2,000/month
Pros: No prep needed, fun occasionally
Cons: Adds up fast, less healthy
Private Chef (Weekly Prep) – $1,000–$2,500/month
Pros: Personalized, nutritious, time-saving
Cons: Higher upfront investment
What You’re Actually Paying For
Hiring a private chef means more than food. It means:
• Menu customization
• Ingredient sourcing
• Cooked-for-you meals
• A spotless kitchen
• Less stress, more peace
Are You Ready for a Private Chef?
You might be ready if:
✔ You’re constantly short on time
✔ You want to eat healthier but hate cooking
✔ You’re navigating food allergies or special diets
✔ You want more quality meals for your family
✔ You’re looking for a long-term solution (not a quick fix)
Let’s Make Mealtime Easier – Contact Us
Whether you want to know how much a private chef costs per month or you're exploring service options for the year, The Makeshift Chef is here to help.
Schedule Your Free Consultation
Let’s talk about your household, your needs, and your food goals — and we’ll build a plan that works for you.
👉 Book Now: https://www.themakeshiftchef.com/contact
