Food Runner Salary in Raleigh, NC
Food Runners in Raleigh, NC, in 2025, earn approximately $15.19 per hour, which translates to about $607.60 per week, $2,632.93 per month, and $31,595.20 per year.
The demand for Food Runners in Raleigh is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating positive job growth and an expanding food service industry in the area.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Raleigh, NC?
The salary of a Food Runner in Raleigh may vary by experience and employer type. Below is an overview of approximate earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $7.25 | $290.00 | $1,253.33 | $15,080.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.19 | $607.60 | $2,632.93 | $31,595.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $41.81 | $1,672.40 | $7,222.53 | $86,964.80 |
Do Food Runners in Raleigh Earn Tips?
Food Runners often earn tips as part of their income. While tip amounts can vary widely by establishment, it's common for Food Runners to receive an extra $5 to $15 per hour in tips during busy shifts, significantly boosting their overall earnings.
Food Runner Salary in Raleigh vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners make an average of about $14.50 per hour and approximately $30,160 per year.
Food Runners in Raleigh earn slightly more on average with $15.19 per hour and an annual salary of about $31,595.20, positioning Raleigh's pay rates just above the national average.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Raleigh for Food Runners
If you're willing to commute, some nearby cities offer higher pay for Food Runners:
- Fayetteville: $27.88 per hour
- Greensboro: $23.76 per hour
These higher wages in Fayetteville and Greensboro reflect regional variations in demand and cost of living for Food Runners.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Raleigh?
Several factors affect how much a Food Runner can earn in Raleigh:
- Experience and Reliability: More experienced Food Runners who are quick and reliable may earn higher wages or better tip opportunities.
- Skillset and Speed: Ability to manage multiple orders efficiently and communicate well with staff can increase earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Food Runners at high-end restaurants or busy venues often earn more tips and higher base pay compared to smaller or fast-food establishments.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts sometimes carry premium pay due to high customer volumes.
- Local Demand and Competition: Economic and industry conditions in Raleigh influence salary ranges.
How To Become a Food Runner in Raleigh
Becoming a Food Runner in Raleigh generally requires enthusiasm, promptness, and customer service skills, but formal training can enhance employability:
- Complete Culinary or Food Service Training: Programs like the Wake Technical Community College Culinary Arts Program or The Chef's Academy at Raleigh-Durham provide foundational knowledge useful for entry into food service roles.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Credentials such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification demonstrate awareness of food safety protocols, which many employers value.
- Gain On-the-Job Experience: Starting in entry-level food service roles helps build skills necessary for Food Runners.
- Develop Strong Communication and Customer Service Skills: As Food Runners interact closely with servers and customers, interpersonal skills are key.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Raleigh
Some popular employers actively hiring Food Runners in Raleigh include:
- Chili's
- Yard House
- McDonald's
Establishments That Food Runners in Raleigh Work At
Food Runners operate in a variety of eating establishments, and the type of venue can influence their income:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These often provide steady hours and moderate base wages.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: Usually faster-paced, often relying heavily on efficient Food Runners, but wages may be somewhat lower.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Restaurants: Food Runners here may earn higher tips and wages due to the premium service level expected.
- Hotels and Event Venues: These settings sometimes offer seasonal or event-based work with varied pay.
The establishment's scale and clientele strongly influence Food Runners' earning potential and job stability.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Raleigh for Food Runners
Those interested in hospitality roles similar to Food Running might pursue several related careers with overlapping skills and responsibilities.
These include Backwaiter, Busser, and Fast Food Worker positions, which offer pathways within the hospitality and food service industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Raleigh
Food Runners in Raleigh should be familiar with relevant labor laws and tax responsibilities:
- You can review federal labor regulations on the US Department of Labor website for guidance on rights and standards.
- State-specific labor laws for North Carolina, including minimum wage and workplace safety, are available at the North Carolina Department of Labor's website.