Food Runner Salary in Fort Lauderdale, FL
Food Runners in Fort Lauderdale, FL, in 2025, earn approximately $19.27 per hour, which translates to about $770.80 per week, $3,340.13 per month, and $40,081.60 per year.
The demand for Food Runners in Fort Lauderdale is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a stable and increasing need for hospitality support staff in the area.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Fort Lauderdale, FL?
The salary of a Food Runner in Fort Lauderdale varies depending on experience and employer size. Here is a chart outlining typical earnings across 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) | $19.27 | $770.80 | $3,340.13 | $40,081.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $27.58 | $1,103.20 | $4,764.53 | $57,366.40 |
Do Food Runners in Fort Lauderdale Earn Tips?
Yes, Food Runners in Fort Lauderdale often receive tips that can add significant income to their base salary. They typically can earn an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment’s clientele and shift. This can make a substantial difference in total earnings.
Food Runner Salary in Fort Lauderdale vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners earn about $19.27 per hour, equal to approximately $40,081.60 annually.
Food Runners in Fort Lauderdale earn roughly on par with the national average in terms of hourly rates and annual salaries, reflecting a competitive market in this region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Fort Lauderdale for Food Runners
Nearby areas often vary slightly in pay:
- Downtown: $20.00 per hour
- Las Olas: $21.50 per hour
Food Runners working in the more upscale or tourist-heavy areas like Las Olas generally command higher wages compared to other nearby locations.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Fort Lauderdale?
Several factors can impact how much a Food Runner earns in Fort Lauderdale:
- Experience and Tenure: Food Runners with more experience or longevity at a restaurant tend to earn more.
- Skill and Efficiency: The ability to carry multiple plates quickly and maintain customer-facing professionalism can lead to better pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and hotel dining rooms often pay higher salaries compared to casual or fast-casual eateries.
- Work Schedule: Evenings, weekends, and holiday shifts may include tips or shift differentials increasing total income.
- Local Demand: Fort Lauderdale’s active tourism and hospitality industry help maintain robust demand for Food Runners.
How To Become a Food Runner in Fort Lauderdale
Getting started as a Food Runner involves several key steps:
- Gain Basic Food Service Knowledge: Familiarity with food safety and customer service is important.
- Consider Certification: Earning the ServSafe Food Handler Certification helps demonstrate knowledge of food safety practices needed for this role.
- Explore Hospitality Programs: The Hospitality Management Program at Broward College covers key industry skills and can help with career advancement.
- Find Entry-Level Positions: Many Food Runners start in casual dining and work their way up.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Fort Lauderdale
Some of the main employers seeking Food Runners in Fort Lauderdale include:
- Shooters Waterfront
- Bar Rita
- Noble House Hotels & Resorts
Establishments That Food Runners in Fort Lauderdale Work At
Food Runners are employed across a range of hospitality venues:
- Casual Restaurants: Fast-paced but generally moderate pay scales.
- Fast Casual: Lower wage bases but potentially higher tip volume during busy times.
- Hotels and Resorts: Higher-end venues may offer better salaries and opportunities for tips.
- Fine Dining: The highest pay potential, often supplemented with significant tips.
The type of establishment greatly influences overall earnings, with upscale and busy locations tending to offer better compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Fort Lauderdale for Food Runners
If you’re interested in roles related to Food Runner, here are a few similar careers to consider:
These include Backwaiter, Busser, and Server roles, which share similar work environments and customer service elements.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Fort Lauderdale
Food Runners should stay informed on relevant labor laws and tax requirements to protect their rights and manage their finances properly.
- Learn about federal labor laws from the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The State of Florida’s official labor information website offers details specific to Florida employment standards and worker protections.