Food Runner Salary in Costa Mesa, CA
Food Runners in Costa Mesa, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $15.33 per hour, which translates to about $613.20 per week, $2,657.20 per month, and $31,886.40 per year.
The job outlook for Food Runners in Costa Mesa is positive, with employment expected to grow by around 5% per year. This steady growth suggests an increasing demand for Food Runners in the local hospitality and dining industries.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Costa Mesa, CA?
The salary of a Food Runner in Costa Mesa varies depending on experience, skills, and employer, but the following provides a comprehensive view of earnings across different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.73 | $589.20 | $2,541.60 | $30,499.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.33 | $613.20 | $2,657.20 | $31,886.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $15.94 | $637.60 | $2,761.07 | $33,155.20 |
Do Food Runners in Costa Mesa Earn Tips?
Food Runners typically earn some tips in addition to their wages, depending on the establishment. While tips are not guaranteed, most Food Runners can expect to earn roughly an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips when working in busy restaurants, improving their overall earnings.
Food Runner Salary in Costa Mesa vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners earn an average of about $19.13 per hour, which is equivalent to approximately $39,790.40 per year. In comparison, Food Runners in Costa Mesa earn about $15.33 per hour or $31,886.40 annually.
This shows that while Food Runners in Costa Mesa make less than the national average, the salary aligns with the region's cost of living and market demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Costa Mesa for Food Runners
Nearby cities offer varying pay rates for Food Runners:
- Newport Beach: $18.00 per hour
- Anaheim: $19.81 per hour
Those willing to commute to these areas may find higher wages than in Costa Mesa itself.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Costa Mesa?
Several factors affect how much a Food Runner can earn in Costa Mesa:
- Experience: More experienced Food Runners tend to command higher wages due to their efficiency and reliability.
- Skills and Speed: Exceptional communication skills and the ability to handle multiple orders quickly can increase earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants or upscale hotels usually pay better than casual or fast-food venues.
- Shift Timing: Evenings, weekends, and holiday shifts often come with higher pay or bonuses.
- Tips Opportunity: Restaurants with table service generally provide more tipping opportunities compared to takeout-focused venues.
How To Become a Food Runner in Costa Mesa
Embarking on a career as a Food Runner in Costa Mesa involves several key steps:
- Complete Relevant Training: Enrolling in hospitality or culinary programs such as the Orange Coast College Culinary Arts Program or Santa Ana College Hospitality Management Program can provide valuable foundational knowledge.
- Obtain Required Certifications: Acquiring food safety certifications like the California Food Handler Card and the ServSafe Food Handler Certification is mandatory and enhances employability.
- Develop Customer Service Skills: Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are critical.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level positions or internships in restaurants help build necessary experience.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Costa Mesa
Costa Mesa boasts a variety of restaurants and establishments actively seeking qualified Food Runners, including:
- Din Tai Fung
- Kenwood's Kitchen & Tap
- Mendocino Farms
Establishments That Food Runners in Costa Mesa Work At
Food Runners in Costa Mesa can find work across several types of establishments, such as:
- Casual Restaurants: Often offer moderate wages with some tipping opportunities.
- Fast Casual Venues: These places typically have faster-paced environments, which might affect tip volume but offer consistent hourly pay.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Usually pay higher wages and provide excellent tips due to higher check averages.
- Hotels and Resorts: Food Runners here benefit from higher pay rates and may receive additional perks.
The type of establishment plays a significant role in salary variation, with fine dining generally offering the most lucrative packages.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Costa Mesa for Food Runners
If you’re interested in career paths similar to Food Running, consider these related hospitality roles that require comparable skills and can offer advancement opportunities.
These include Barista, Bartender, and Busser positions — roles that also involve customer interaction and service skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Costa Mesa
Food Runners should familiarize themselves with state and federal labor laws and tax responsibilities:
- California Department of Industrial Relations offers comprehensive information on state labor laws and regulations. Visit California Department of Industrial Relations for details.
- For employment services and tax information, check the California Employment Development Department at California Employment Development Department.
- Federal labor laws and resources are available through the U.S. Department of Labor at U.S. Department of Labor.