How much does a Caterer make?
Caterers find rewarding work in a variety of settings. They can work in hotels, restaurants, or even at special events. The average yearly salary for a caterer is $38,994. This amount can change based on experience and location. Caterers often start at the lower end of this range. With more experience, they can move up to higher salaries.
Different types of catering can also affect pay. For example, caterers who work for large companies might earn more than those working for smaller ones. Those who cater high-end events can also earn more. Here is a look at the pay for different levels of catering:
- 10% earn $25,000 or less
- 24% earn between $25,000 and $29,091
- 37% earn between $29,091 and $33,182
- 53% earn between $33,182 and $37,273
- 72% earn between $37,273 and $41,364
- 89% earn between $41,364 and $45,455
- 92% earn between $45,455 and $49,545
- 94% earn between $49,545 and $53,636
- 95% earn between $53,636 and $57,727
- 96% earn between $57,727 and $61,818
- 97% earn between $61,818 and $65,909
- 100% earn up to $70,000
What are the highest paying cities for a Caterer?

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Stamford, CT
Average Salary: $60,455
In Stamford, food service professionals enjoy steady demand, catering to local businesses and events. Companies like Sodexo and Bon Appétit often seek skilled caterers. The area’s dynamic business environment provides ample opportunities for growth.
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Honolulu, HI
Average Salary: $56,586
Honolulu offers caterers a vibrant market, with a mix of local events and tourism. Catering to cruise ship passengers and hosting big conventions, this city is a hub for culinary creativity. Local companies like Aloha Catering and Kona Joe’s frequently need skilled hands.
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Miami, FL
Average Salary: $56,254
Miami’s lively atmosphere makes it a great place for caterers. The city’s tourism industry and numerous events create a high demand for catering services. Companies like Levy Restaurants and Sodexo provide excellent opportunities for those in the field.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $52,447
Seattle’s catering scene is booming, with many tech companies and events needing catering services. The city’s love for fresh food and outdoor events gives caterers a unique market. Companies like Bon Appétit and Seattle Public Schools offer diverse work opportunities.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $51,616
As a political hub, Washington, DC, offers caterers a steady stream of government and private events. The city’s cultural events and conferences create a dynamic work environment. Companies like Aramark and Sodexo lead the industry here.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $50,187
Boston’s rich history and vibrant cultural scene make it an exciting place for caterers. The city’s educational institutions and numerous events provide steady work. Companies like Bon Appétit and Aramark often seek skilled professionals.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $49,974
San Francisco’s tech industry and cultural events offer many opportunities for caterers. The city’s progressive food scene and high demand for events create a dynamic market. Local companies like Bon Appétit and Sodexo often look for skilled caterers.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $49,943
Los Angeles’s entertainment industry and diverse events provide a wealth of opportunities for caterers. The city’s large population and numerous venues create a vibrant market. Companies like Aramark and Bon Appétit offer many job prospects.
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Madison, WI
Average Salary: $48,005
Madison’s university presence and cultural events make it a great place for caterers. The city’s love for outdoor events and local flavors provides a unique market. Companies like Sodexo and Bon Appétit often seek skilled professionals.
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Baltimore, MD
Average Salary: $46,338
Baltimore’s mix of historic charm and modern business opportunities makes it a great place for caterers. The city’s festivals and business events provide steady work. Companies like Aramark and Sodexo frequently look for skilled caterers.
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What are the best companies a Caterer can work for?

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Bon Appétit
Average Salary: $88,955
Bon Appétit offers exciting Caterer jobs with an average salary of $88,955. They serve top-notch food in schools, universities, and healthcare facilities across the country. Locations include big cities like New York, Chicago, and San Francisco, and many other areas.
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Eurest
Average Salary: $58,324
Eurest provides Caterer positions with an average salary of $58,324. They cater to schools, businesses, and healthcare facilities. They operate in many areas, such as large cities like Los Angeles and smaller towns.
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ISS Facility Services
Average Salary: $55,170
ISS Facility Services offers Caterer jobs with an average salary of $55,170. They provide catering services for offices, schools, and hospitals. They work in many areas, including big cities like Miami and smaller towns.
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Morrison Healthcare
Average Salary: $52,727
Morrison Healthcare offers Caterer positions with an average salary of $52,727. They cater to schools, hospitals, and senior living communities. They operate in many areas, such as big cities like Boston and smaller towns.
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Chartwells Higher Education
Average Salary: $52,272
Chartwells Higher Education offers Caterer jobs with an average salary of $52,272. They serve food at colleges and universities. They operate in many areas, such as big cities like Seattle and smaller towns.
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Antelope Valley Medical Center
Average Salary: $48,099
Antelope Valley Medical Center offers Caterer positions with an average salary of $48,099. They provide food services for hospitals and medical facilities. They operate in many areas, such as large cities like Los Angeles and smaller towns.
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ZeroCater
Average Salary: $47,231
ZeroCater offers Caterer jobs with an average salary of $47,231. They cater to businesses, schools, and healthcare facilities. They work in many areas, such as big cities like Denver and smaller towns.
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Ministry of Justice UK
Average Salary: $47,106
The Ministry of Justice UK offers Caterer positions with an average salary of $47,106. They provide food services for prisons and government buildings. They operate in many areas, including big cities like London and smaller towns.
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SAGE Dining Services
Average Salary: $44,214
SAGE Dining Services offers Caterer jobs with an average salary of $44,214. They cater to schools, hospitals, and senior living communities. They operate in many areas, such as big cities like Philadelphia and smaller towns.
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Hungry Marketplace
Average Salary: $43,350
Hungry Marketplace offers Caterer positions with an average salary of $43,350. They provide food services for offices, schools, and healthcare facilities. They operate in many areas, such as big cities like Austin and smaller towns.
How to earn more as a Caterer?
Caterers can earn more by improving their skills and services. Catering is a competitive field, but there are many ways to stand out and increase earnings. First, caterers should focus on mastering menu design. Creating appealing and diverse menus can attract more clients and keep existing ones satisfied. Using seasonal ingredients can also make dishes more attractive and flavorful.
Another way to earn more is by expanding service offerings. Many caterers provide basic meal services, but adding options like dessert stations, specialty cocktails, or private chef services can bring in higher profits. Caterers can also increase their reach by marketing through social media and attending local events. Building a strong reputation and online presence can bring more clients. Investing in quality equipment and training staff also plays a big role. High-quality meals and excellent service can lead to more positive reviews and repeat business.
Here are five key factors to consider:
- Master menu design and use seasonal ingredients
- Expand service offerings with specialty options
- Market through social media and local events
- Invest in quality equipment and staff training
- Focus on excellent customer service to build a strong reputation



