Food Runner Salary in Santa Monica, CA
Food Runners in Santa Monica, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $17.36 per hour, which translates to about $694.40 per week, $3,009.07 per month, and $36,108.80 per year.
The demand for Food Runners in Santa Monica is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the food service industry in this area.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Santa Monica, CA?
The salary of a Food Runner in Santa Monica can vary based on experience and employer, but the following provides a breakdown of earnings at different 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) | $17.36 | $694.40 | $3,009.07 | $36,108.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.32 | $812.80 | $3,512.53 | $42,265.60 |
Do Food Runners in Santa Monica Earn Tips?
Food Runners typically do receive tips due to their direct interaction with customers and support in service. They can earn approximately $5 to $15 per shift in tips, depending on the establishment and shift hours, adding a meaningful supplement to their base earnings.
Food Runner Salary in Santa Monica vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners earn an average hourly wage of about $19.13, which corresponds to roughly $39,790.40 annually.
Comparing that to Santa Monica, Food Runners here earn a bit less on average, making $17.36 per hour and $36,108.80 annually. The slightly lower pay could be influenced by the local market conditions and employer types in Santa Monica.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Santa Monica for Food Runners
Nearby areas offer competitive wages for Food Runners, including:
- Beverly Hills: $18.93 per hour
- West Hollywood: $18.23 per hour
These neighboring cities tend to have higher pay rates, potentially due to their upscale dining scenes and higher cost of living.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Santa Monica?
Several key factors influence a Food Runner’s salary in Santa Monica:
- Experience and Speed: More experienced Food Runners who work efficiently and multitask effectively often earn higher wages and bigger tips.
- Skills: Strong communication, teamwork, and knowledge of the menu can lead to better performance evaluations and pay increases.
- Type of Establishment: Higher-end or busy restaurants tend to pay more than casual eateries or fast food chains.
- Shift Timing: Working peak shifts, weekends, or holidays might earn shift differentials or increased tips.
- Local Cost of Living: Santa Monica’s cost of living can drive wages higher compared to smaller cities or rural areas.
How To Become a Food Runner in Santa Monica
Getting started as a Food Runner in Santa Monica involves a few practical steps to build skills and qualifications.
- Gain Basic Food Service Training: Programs like the Santa Monica College Culinary Arts Program or Los Angeles Trade-Technical College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive knowledge in food preparation and service, beneficial for Food Runners.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the California Food Handler's Card and the nationally recognized ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often mandatory and help ensure workplace readiness.
- Acquire Experience: Volunteer or work in entry level roles in restaurants to understand pacing, customer service, and kitchen operations.
- Develop Physical Stamina and Speed: Food Runners need to be quick, reliable, and able to carry multiple orders efficiently.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Santa Monica
Several well-known local businesses frequently hire Food Runners, including:
- King's Seafood
- Montage Hotels & Resorts
- Pinstripes
Establishments That Food Runners in Santa Monica Work At
Food Runners find employment across a variety of eateries:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These often employ Food Runners with moderate pay; volume of business can affect tips and hours.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Speed and multitasking are critical; pay may be slightly lower but with steady shifts.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Establishments: Tend to pay better wages and provide higher tip potential due to premium clientele.
The establishment type influences salary and tip opportunities, with upscale venues generally offering the highest earnings.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Santa Monica for Food Runners
If you're considering careers related to Food Running, you might explore these positions as well:
These include Backwaiter, Fry Cook, and Dishwasher roles, which share aspects of food service support and kitchen assistance.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Santa Monica
Food Runners should be familiar with California labor laws and tax regulations to ensure proper employment rights and financial management.
- Visit the California Department of Industrial Relations website for detailed information on workplace laws and employee protections.
- For tax filing and employment services, the California Employment Development Department website offers helpful resources.