Food Runner Salary in Ann Arbor, MI
Food Runners in Ann Arbor, MI, in 2025, earn approximately $18.68 per hour, which translates to about $747.20 per week, $3,237.87 per month, and $38,854.40 per year.
The demand for Food Runners in Ann Arbor is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a promising outlook and increasing opportunities in the local hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Ann Arbor, MI?
The salary of a Food Runner in Ann Arbor can vary depending on experience and the type of establishment, but here is a breakdown across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.80 | $512.00 | $2,213.33 | $26,624.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.68 | $747.20 | $3,237.87 | $38,854.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $27.25 | $1,090.00 | $4,716.67 | $56,680.00 |
Do Food Runners in Ann Arbor Earn Tips?
Food Runners often earn tips, typically making an estimated $5 to $10 per hour in tips depending on the establishment and hours worked. Tips can significantly supplement the base salary, especially during busy shifts or at higher-end restaurants.
Food Runner Salary in Ann Arbor vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners earn an average of around $18.68 per hour, which amounts to roughly $38,854.40 per year.
Food Runners in Ann Arbor earn salaries that are in line with the national averages, reflecting the city's competitive hospitality labor market and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Ann Arbor for Food Runners
Looking at surrounding neighborhoods, the pay rates vary slightly for Food Runners:
- Downtown: $19.50 per hour
- Kerrytown: $20.00 per hour
Those working in Kerrytown tend to earn the highest wages nearby, likely due to the area's bustling dining scene and higher-end establishments.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Ann Arbor?
Several factors influence how much a Food Runner can earn:
- Experience: More experienced Food Runners typically command higher wages.
- Skill Level and Efficiency: Fast, accurate service and knowledge of the menu may increase earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Higher-end or busy restaurants and hotels often pay more and offer better tips than casual or fast-casual venues.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend hours may come with shift premiums or greater tips.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Salaries are often higher in areas like downtown or popular districts due to demand and expenses.
How To Become a Food Runner in Ann Arbor
Becoming a Food Runner in Ann Arbor generally involves the following steps:
- Gain Basic Experience: Entry-level positions do not typically require formal education, but experience in customer service or food service is helpful.
- Consider Culinary or Hospitality Education: Programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Washtenaw Community College or the Hospitality Management Program at Eastern Michigan University provide valuable foundational knowledge.
- Obtain Relevant Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification improve job prospects and demonstrate commitment to safety and service standards.
- Develop Soft Skills: Excellent communication, teamwork, and physical stamina are critical for success in this role.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Ann Arbor
Several well-known establishments actively hire Food Runners in Ann Arbor, including:
- Condado Tacos
- Anna's House
- Slurping Turtle
Establishments That Food Runners in Ann Arbor Work At
Food Runners find employment in a variety of settings:
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Common employers that may offer entry-level positions with modest base pay but opportunities for tips.
- Hotels and Resorts: Tend to offer more stable pay and sometimes benefits, with a focus on service quality.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Typically provide higher wages and more tips but may require more experience and skill.
- Cafés and Bistros: Often smaller operations offering flexible hours and tip income.
The type of establishment greatly influences both the base salary and potential tips, with fine dining and busy casual spots offering the highest earning opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Ann Arbor for Food Runners
If you are considering roles similar to Food Runner, here are a few related hospitality jobs to explore:
These include Backwaiter, Server, and Fry Cook positions, all of which involve different responsibilities in food service and offer varied salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Ann Arbor
Food Runners should stay informed about labor regulations and tax obligations specific to Michigan and federal law:
- Visit the official Michigan government website for state-specific labor laws, wage standards, and employment rights.
- Consult the U.S. Department of Labor for federal workplace standards, including minimum wage, overtime, and safety regulations.