How much does a Caterer make?
Caterers play a key role in making events enjoyable and memorable. They prepare and serve food and drinks for gatherings, parties, and special occasions. The average yearly salary for a Caterer is around $36,903. This means that, on average, Caterers earn a good income for their work.
The salary of a Caterer can vary based on experience and location. Caterers with more experience often earn higher salaries. Those working in larger cities or areas with a higher cost of living may also earn more. Here is a breakdown of the salary distribution for Caterers:
- 10% earn less than $24,000
- 25% earn between $24,000 and $32,364
- 50% earn between $32,364 and $44,909
- 75% earn between $44,909 and $53,273
- 90% earn less than $57,455
These figures show that many Caterers earn a solid income, with the potential to earn more as they gain experience and take on larger or more complex events.
What are the highest paying cities for a Caterer?

-
Miami, FL
Average Salary: $55,316
In Miami, catering jobs offer vibrant opportunities with a focus on diverse cuisines. Many caterers work with top hotels and event venues, providing a dynamic work environment. Companies like Aramark and Sodexo often hire skilled professionals.
Find Caterer jobs in Miami, FL
-
Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $50,305
Seattle's catering scene is known for its fresh, local ingredients. Caterers here often work with tech companies and event planners. Companies like Bon Appétit and Aramark are prominent employers in the city.
Find Caterer jobs in Seattle, WA
-
San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $50,064
San Francisco offers a unique catering experience with its diverse food culture. Caterers often work with tech firms and event organizers. Companies like Bon Appétit and Sodexo provide many opportunities for skilled professionals.
Find Caterer jobs in San Francisco, CA
-
Boston, MA
Average Salary: $49,048
Boston's catering jobs are rich in history and tradition. Caterers work with universities and event planners. Companies like Sodexo and Bon Appétit are well-known employers in the city.
Find Caterer jobs in Boston, MA
-
Washington, DC
Average Salary: $48,325
In Washington, DC, catering jobs offer a mix of political and social events. Caterers work with government agencies and event planners. Companies like Aramark and Sodexo are prominent in the area.
Find Caterer jobs in Washington, DC
-
Madison, WI
Average Salary: $45,857
Madison offers a friendly catering environment with a focus on community events. Caterers often work with universities and local businesses. Companies like Bon Appétit and Sodexo provide many opportunities.
Find Caterer jobs in Madison, WI
-
Syracuse, NY
Average Salary: $45,387
Syracuse's catering scene is centered around local events and businesses. Caterers work with universities and event planners. Companies like Aramark and Bon Appétit are key employers in the city.
Find Caterer jobs in Syracuse, NY
-
Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $44,988
Los Angeles offers a dynamic catering environment with a focus on entertainment and film events. Caterers work with studios and event planners. Companies like Sodexo and Aramark are well-known in the area.
Find Caterer jobs in Los Angeles, CA
-
San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $44,916
San Jose's catering jobs are part of the tech-driven food scene. Caterers work with tech companies and event planners. Companies like Bon Appétit and Sodexo provide many opportunities for skilled professionals.
Find Caterer jobs in San Jose, CA
-
Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $43,332
Sacramento offers a diverse catering scene with a mix of government and community events. Caterers work with government agencies and local businesses. Companies like Aramark and Bon Appétit are prominent employers.
Find Caterer jobs in Sacramento, CA
What are the best companies a Caterer can work for?

-
FLIK Hospitality Group
Average Salary: $74,271
FLIK Hospitality Group offers exciting Caterer jobs with competitive pay. They operate in various locations, including major cities and tourist spots. Their focus on quality and customer service makes them a great choice for those in the catering industry.
-
Eurest
Average Salary: $61,688
Eurest provides Caterer jobs with a good salary. They work in many areas, such as airports, hospitals, and corporate offices. Eurest values teamwork and innovation, making it a good place for career growth.
-
Compass Group
Average Salary: $54,726
Compass Group offers Caterer jobs with a solid average salary. They serve many industries, including education, healthcare, and corporate. Compass Group emphasizes diversity and inclusion, creating a welcoming work environment.
-
ISS Facility Services
Average Salary: $51,836
ISS Facility Services provides Caterer jobs with a decent salary. They work in various sectors, such as education, healthcare, and corporate. ISS Facility Services focuses on sustainability and community involvement, offering a rewarding work experience.
-
City Barbeque
Average Salary: $49,733
City Barbeque offers Caterer jobs with a good salary. They operate in several cities, focusing on quality barbecue and customer service. City Barbeque values creativity and teamwork, making it a great place for culinary professionals.
-
Metz Culinary Management
Average Salary: $49,581
Metz Culinary Management provides Caterer jobs with a competitive salary. They work in various locations, including corporate offices and event venues. Metz Culinary Management emphasizes quality and customer satisfaction, offering a dynamic work environment.
-
Northwell Health
Average Salary: $48,678
Northwell Health offers Caterer jobs with a good salary. They serve many healthcare facilities, providing quality meals and services. Northwell Health values teamwork and patient care, making it a rewarding place to work.
-
Antelope Valley Medical Center
Average Salary: $47,987
Antelope Valley Medical Center provides Caterer jobs with a decent salary. They operate in the healthcare sector, focusing on patient care and quality service. The center values teamwork and innovation, offering a supportive work environment.
-
U.S. Air Force
Average Salary: $47,119
The U.S. Air Force offers Caterer jobs with a competitive salary. They serve in various locations, including military bases and events. The Air Force values discipline and teamwork, providing a unique and rewarding work experience.
-
Chartwells Higher Education
Average Salary: $46,670
Chartwells Higher Education provides Caterer jobs with a good salary. They work in many universities and colleges, offering quality meals and services. Chartwells Higher Education values innovation and community, making it a great place to work.
How to earn more as a Caterer?
Caterers can increase their earnings by focusing on several key areas. One important factor is to specialize in a niche. This could be anything from vegan cuisine to gourmet desserts. Specializing allows a caterer to charge higher rates for their unique services. Another factor is to build strong relationships with clients. Repeat business and referrals can lead to more stable income and higher rates.
Improving efficiency can also lead to higher earnings. This includes streamlining processes and reducing waste. Using technology to manage orders and inventory can save time and money. Another way to earn more is to expand the business. This can involve offering new services or catering to a wider geographic area. Finally, investing in quality can attract more clients. High-quality food and service can justify higher prices and lead to better reviews.
Here are some factors to consider for earning more as a caterer:
- Specialize in a niche
- Build strong client relationships
- Improve efficiency
- Expand the business
- Invest in quality