Food Runner Salary in Cleveland, OH
Food Runners in Cleveland, OH, in 2025, earn approximately $16.96 per hour, which translates to about $678.40 per week, $2,939.73 per month, and $35,276.80 per year.
The demand for Food Runners in Cleveland is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive trend and increasing opportunities in the local food service industry.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Cleveland, OH?
The salary of a Food Runner in Cleveland varies depending on their level of experience, but the following table provides a detailed breakdown across different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,436.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Food Runners in Cleveland Earn Tips?
Food Runners in Cleveland often earn tips as part of their compensation. While the amount varies by establishment and shift, many Food Runners make an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, which can significantly boost their overall income.
Food Runner Salary in Cleveland vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners earn around $15.82 per hour, with an average yearly salary of $32,905.60.
Compared to the national average, Food Runners in Cleveland make slightly more, earning about $16.96 per hour and $35,276.80 per year. This suggests that Cleveland offers competitive wages for this role relative to the broader United States.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Cleveland for Food Runners
Nearby cities offer various wage opportunities for Food Runners:
- Lakewood: $48.61 per hour
- Strongsville: $35.89 per hour
Lakewood stands out as a particularly lucrative area for Food Runners, offering significantly higher hourly wages compared to Cleveland. Strongsville also provides competitive pay but at slightly lower rates.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Cleveland?
Several key factors impact how much a Food Runner can earn in Cleveland:
- Experience Level: More experienced Food Runners tend to secure higher wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale or high-traffic restaurants usually offers better salaries and tip opportunities.
- Skills and Efficiency: Food Runners who work quickly and maintain excellent customer service skills may receive higher compensation.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts often pay more, due to higher demand and greater tip potential.
How To Become a Food Runner in Cleveland
To pursue a career as a Food Runner in Cleveland, consider the following steps:
- Complete Relevant Education: Enroll in hospitality or culinary courses, such as those offered by Cuyahoga Community College Hospitality Management Program or Cleveland State University Continuing Education in Hospitality, to build foundational knowledge.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensure compliance with health standards and are highly valued by employers.
- Gain Experience: Starting in entry-level positions within food service helps build the skills needed for Food Runner roles.
- Learn State-Required Trainings: Programs such as the Ohio Responsible Beverage Service Training can be beneficial, especially in establishments serving alcohol.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Cleveland
Several well-known employers in Cleveland regularly hire Food Runners, including:
- Delaware North
- Hofbrauhaus Cleveland
- The Capital Grille
Establishments That Food Runners in Cleveland Work At
Food Runners typically work in a variety of dining settings, each with different impacts on salary:
- Casual Restaurants: Provide steady work hours and moderate pay.
- Fast Casual: May offer faster-paced environments with variable tips.
- Fine Dining: Usually offers higher wages and more significant tip potential.
- Hotels and Resorts: Can provide more stable schedules and benefits, with pay varying by property.
The type of establishment can greatly influence total earnings, especially through tipping opportunities and shift premiums.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Cleveland for Food Runners
For those interested in career growth or alternative roles, here are related positions within hospitality:
This includes roles such as Backwaiter, Server, and Fry Cook, which share similar environments and skill sets.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Cleveland
Food Runners must be informed about both federal and local labor laws as well as tax responsibilities.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and employment standards to understand national worker protections.
- For state-specific information, the Ohio job and family services website offers employment resources and regulations.
- The City of Cleveland's official website provides additional local employment guidelines.