Food Runner Salary in New Orleans, LA
Food Runners in New Orleans, LA, in 2025, earn approximately $14.88 per hour, which translates to about $595.20 per week, $2,579.20 per month, and $30,950.40 per year.
The job market for Food Runners is experiencing positive growth of about 5% per year, indicating an increasing demand for Dining Service support roles in New Orleans.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in New Orleans, LA?
The salary of a Food Runner in New Orleans varies based on experience and employer, but here is a breakdown of typical earnings by experience level.
| 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 | $2,433.33 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Food Runners in New Orleans Earn Tips?
Food Runners generally earn tips as part of their income, often receiving an additional $5 to $10 per hour in tips depending on the dining establishment and shift. This can significantly supplement their base wages.
Food Runner Salary in New Orleans vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners earn an average of around $18.15 per hour, which amounts to about $37,752 per year.
Compared to the national figures, Food Runners in New Orleans earn a bit less on the hourly scale, with an average of $14.88 per hour and $30,950.40 annually. This variation may reflect the cost of living and local industry standards.
Highest-Paying Areas Near New Orleans for Food Runners
Within the New Orleans area, certain neighborhoods offer higher pay rates for Food Runners:
- French Quarter: $15.50 per hour
- Central Business District: $17.60 per hour
Food Runners working in the Central Business District tend to earn the highest wages, likely due to the upscale dining options and business activity in that area.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in New Orleans?
Multiple factors contribute to variations in Food Runner salaries:
- Experience Level: More experienced Food Runners often command higher wages due to efficiency and reliability.
- Skills: Those with exceptional organizational and communication abilities can stand out and earn better pay.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants, hotels, and banquet halls tend to pay more than casual or fast-food venues.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts may include higher pay due to increased demand or shift differentials.
- Local Economy and Living Costs: Salaries can reflect the economic environment and cost of living in New Orleans.
How To Become a Food Runner in New Orleans
Starting a career as a Food Runner in New Orleans generally involves a few key steps:
- Gain Basic Food Service Experience: Experience in customer service or hospitality can be beneficial.
- Pursue Relevant Education: Programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Delgado Community College and the Hospitality Management Program at the University of New Orleans provide useful food service knowledge and skills.
- Obtain Certifications: Earning certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification helps demonstrate understanding of food safety practices.
- Complete State-required Training: In Louisiana, Responsible Vendor Training is often required in establishments serving alcohol, which can be an asset for Food Runners working in these venues.
- Develop Physical Stamina and Communication Skills: Food Runners need to be agile and clear communicators to perform their duties effectively.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in New Orleans
Some of the key employers seeking Food Runners in New Orleans include:
- Hilton
- Marriott International
- Antoine's Restaurant
Establishments That Food Runners in New Orleans Work At
Food Runners typically find employment in various dining environments such as:
- Casual Dining: Offers moderate wages, often with tips and flexible schedules.
- Fine Dining: Generally provides higher pay and tips due to the upscale service requirements.
- Hotels and Resorts: May pay more owing to larger scale and higher volume service.
- Banquet and Catering Services: These can offer seasonal or event-based work with varying wage levels.
The type of establishment impacts earnings and work conditions, with fine dining and hotels usually providing better salary opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in New Orleans for Food Runners
If you are interested in similar roles to Food Runner, consider exploring other hospitality positions that share overlapping skills and functions.
These include Backwaiter, Busser, and Server roles, which involve direct interaction with guests and complementary hospitality skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in New Orleans
Food Runners should familiarize themselves with applicable labor laws and tax regulations to ensure fair workplace practices and compliance.
- Review state-specific employment and labor information on the Louisiana government website.
- For comprehensive federal labor laws, consult the U.S. Department of Labor website.