Food Runner in Boston, MA
Food Runners in Boston, MA, in 2025, earn approximately $20.82 per hour, which translates to about $832.80 per week, $3,608.80 per month, and $43,305.60 per year.
The demand for Food Runners in Boston is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating positive job prospects and increased opportunities in the food service industry in this region.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Boston, MA?
The salary of a Food Runner in Boston varies by experience and employer. Below is an overview of typical earnings at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.82 | $832.80 | $3,608.80 | $43,305.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $33.40 | $1,336.00 | $5,789.33 | $69,472.00 |
Do Food Runners in Boston Earn Tips?
Food Runners often receive tips as part of their income, depending on the establishment. They can earn approximately $5 to $10 per hour in tips in addition to their base pay, enhancing overall earnings considerably.
Food Runner Salary in Boston vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners earn an average hourly wage of $18.43, which is around $38,334.40 per year.
Compared to the national average, Food Runners in Boston earn a higher average wage of $20.82 per hour and $43,305.60 annually, reflecting the city's cost of living and demand for hospitality staff.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Boston for Food Runners
Nearby areas show varying pay levels for Food Runners:
- Brookline: $22.62 per hour
- Burlington: $21.86 per hour
Food Runners commuting to Brookline can expect higher wages, while Burlington also offers competitive pay. These areas are attractive for Food Runners seeking better compensation.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Boston?
Several factors can influence the salary of Food Runners in Boston:
- Experience Level: Experienced Food Runners tend to command higher wages due to proven efficiency and reliability.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and hotels typically pay higher salaries compared to fast casual or casual dining venues.
- Skills and Speed: Quick service and strong communication skills can improve earning potential and tips.
- Shift Timing: Working night or weekend shifts might come with shift differentials, increasing pay.
- Location: Geographic location within the metropolitan area affects wages, with some suburbs offering higher pay due to local demand.
How To Become a Food Runner in Boston
To start a career as a Food Runner in Boston, consider the following steps:
- Gain basic food service knowledge: Enroll in programs such as the Boston University Metropolitan College Certificate in Food & Beverage Management to understand operations and customer service.
- Acquire culinary understanding: The Cambridge School of Culinary Arts Professional Chef's Program offers hands-on training which can be beneficial for Food Runners looking to understand kitchen workflows.
- Obtain food safety certifications: Certifications like ServSafe Food Handler and TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) are valuable as they ensure knowledge of health and safety standards and responsible alcohol service, often required in food service roles.
- Develop strong communication and organizational skills: These help in coordinating food delivery efficiently between the kitchen and dining room.
- Start with entry-level roles: Many Food Runners begin working in fast casual or casual dining to gain experience and move up.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Boston
Several well-known employers in Boston regularly hire Food Runners:
- Yard House
- State Of Play Hospitality
- The Langham Boston
Establishments That Food Runners in Boston Work At
Food Runners typically work in a variety of food service establishments in Boston, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These provide steady work hours and moderate salaries with tip opportunities.
- Fast Casual Venues: Often have faster-paced environments but may offer lower base pay and added tips.
- Upscale and Fine Dining Restaurants: Tend to pay higher wages and may offer better tip pools, increasing overall compensation.
- Hotels and Resorts: Provide opportunities for higher earnings and potential benefits.
The level and type of establishment significantly affect the salary and tip potential for Food Runners in Boston.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Boston for Food Runners
If you're interested in roles related to Food Runner, here are some similar hospitality positions you may consider.
These include Busser, Backwaiter, and Bartender positions, all of which are integral roles within the hospitality and dining services sector.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Boston
Food Runners working in Boston should be aware of both state and federal labor laws that impact their employment conditions and tax responsibilities.
- Visit the Official website of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts for comprehensive information on state labor laws, including minimum wage rules, overtime policies, and workplace rights.
- For federal labor law guidelines, the U.S. Department of Labor’s website provides details on employment standards that apply nationwide.