Food Runner Salary in San Mateo, CA
Food Runners in San Mateo, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $18.07 per hour, which translates to about $722.80 per week, $3,132.13 per month, and $37,585.60 per year.
The demand for Food Runners in San Mateo is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for job opportunities in the hospitality and food service sectors in this area.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in San Mateo, CA?
The salary of a Food Runner in San Mateo can vary depending on experience and employer, but here is a general breakdown of earnings at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.50 | $660.00 | $2,860.00 | $34,320.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.07 | $722.80 | $3,132.13 | $37,585.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.50 | $820.00 | $3,533.33 | $42,640.00 |
Do Food Runners in San Mateo Earn Tips?
Food Runners often earn tips in addition to their hourly wages, typically making an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment’s tipping culture and meal volume.
Food Runner Salary in San Mateo vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners earn an average of around $19.13 per hour, translating to approximately $39,790.40 per year.
Compared to the national average, Food Runners in San Mateo earn slightly less on an hourly basis at $18.07 per hour and $37,585.60 annually. This difference may reflect regional economic conditions and local market demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near San Mateo for Food Runners
Nearby areas offering higher pay for Food Runners include:
- Downtown San Mateo: $19.50 per hour
- Baywood-Aragon: $20.00 per hour
Food Runners commuting or working in these areas may benefit from increased wages compared to San Mateo city averages.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in San Mateo?
Several factors affect how much a Food Runner can earn in San Mateo:
- Experience and Efficiency: More experienced Food Runners who are quicker and better at managing orders tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale or high-volume restaurants may offer better pay and tips compared to casual dining or fast-food outlets.
- Shift Timing: Working evening or weekend shifts often results in higher pay or more tips.
- Local Demand and Competition: Areas with higher demand for restaurant staff may provide increased wage opportunities.
How To Become a Food Runner in San Mateo
Starting a career as a Food Runner can be straightforward, with some important steps to consider:
- Gain Basic Culinary or Food Service Training: Programs like the San Mateo Adult School Culinary Arts Program offer foundational skills valuable for Food Runners.
- Complete Hospitality-Related Education: The College of San Mateo Hospitality Management Program provides broader knowledge about food service operations and customer service, which can be beneficial.
- Obtain Required Food Safety Certifications: Most employers require a California Food Handler Card and often prefer candidates with the nationally recognized ServSafe Certification.
- Build Experience: Entry-level jobs or internships in food establishments can help develop the skills and work ethic needed for this role.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in San Mateo
Several well-known restaurant chains in San Mateo often hire Food Runners, including:
- The Cheesecake Factory
- BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse
- Yard House
Establishments That Food Runners in San Mateo Work At
Food Runners typically find employment in various dining establishments, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These places often have steady customer flow and may offer moderate pay with some tips.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: More fast-paced environments where efficient plate running is crucial; pay may be lower but tipped opportunities may vary.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Higher-end restaurants often provide better wages and greater tips, reflecting the level of service expected.
The type of establishment heavily influences Food Runner salary due to differences in customer volume, tipping practices, and pay scales.
Related Hospitality Jobs in San Mateo for Food Runners
If you are interested in roles similar to Food Runner in the hospitality industry, here are a few related positions worth considering:
These include Backwaiter, Busser, and Dishwasher positions, which share responsibilities in supporting dining room operations and food service flow.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in San Mateo
Food Runners should be aware of the labor laws and tax regulations applicable in California and their local area for proper compliance and rights enforcement.
- For statewide labor laws, visit the California Department of Industrial Relations.
- For information on employment services and state tax matters, the California Employment Development Department is a valuable resource.
- Local regulations and community resources can be checked on the City of San Mateo Official Website.