How much does a Caterer make?
Caterers play a vital role in providing food and beverage services for various events. They work in restaurants, hotels, and event venues. The average yearly salary for a Caterer is around $37,552. This salary can vary depending on the Caterer's experience and location.
Caterers with more experience often earn higher salaries. Entry-level Caterers may start with a lower salary, but as they gain experience, their earnings can increase. Caterers in larger cities or areas with a higher cost of living may also earn more. The salary range for Caterers can be broad, from $24,150 to $71,350 per year. This range shows that there are many opportunities for Caterers to advance and earn more as they gain skills and experience.
What are the highest paying cities for a Caterer?

-
Miami, FL
Average Salary: $57,282
Miami offers a vibrant atmosphere for catering professionals. The city's diverse culture and tourism scene create a high demand for catering services. Companies like Carnival Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean often seek catering expertise.
Find Caterer jobs in Miami, FL
-
Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $52,098
Seattle's tech industry and vibrant events scene provide ample opportunities for catering professionals. Companies like Microsoft and Amazon frequently need catering for events and meetings. The city's love for fresh, local food also enhances catering opportunities.
Find Caterer jobs in Seattle, WA
-
Boston, MA
Average Salary: $50,511
Boston's rich history and educational institutions create a steady demand for catering services. Universities and historic venues often require catering for events. Companies like General Electric and Liberty Mutual also seek catering for corporate functions.
Find Caterer jobs in Boston, MA
-
San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $50,383
San Francisco's bustling tech scene and cultural events offer many opportunities for catering professionals. Companies like Google and Salesforce need catering for their numerous events. The city's focus on sustainability also drives demand for catering services.
Find Caterer jobs in San Francisco, CA
-
Washington, DC
Average Salary: $47,295
Washington, DC's political and corporate environment creates a high demand for catering services. Government agencies and major corporations often require catering for events. Companies like Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman frequently seek catering expertise.
Find Caterer jobs in Washington, DC
-
Madison, WI
Average Salary: $46,265
Madison's university presence and vibrant community events provide many opportunities for catering professionals. The University of Wisconsin and local festivals often need catering services. The city's focus on local, sustainable food also enhances catering opportunities.
Find Caterer jobs in Madison, WI
-
Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $46,006
Los Angeles's entertainment industry and diverse events scene offer numerous opportunities for catering professionals. Companies like Disney and Warner Bros. often need catering for events. The city's diverse culture also drives demand for catering services.
Find Caterer jobs in Los Angeles, CA
-
San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $45,139
San Jose's tech industry and growing events scene create many opportunities for catering professionals. Companies like Apple and Cisco need catering for their numerous events. The city's focus on innovation also enhances catering opportunities.
Find Caterer jobs in San Jose, CA
-
Syracuse, NY
Average Salary: $45,072
Syracuse's educational institutions and community events provide many opportunities for catering professionals. Syracuse University and local festivals often need catering services. The city's focus on local, seasonal food also drives demand for catering services.
Find Caterer jobs in Syracuse, NY
-
Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $44,367
Sacramento's political and corporate environment creates a steady demand for catering services. Government agencies and major corporations often require catering for events. The city's focus on local, sustainable food also enhances catering opportunities.
Find Caterer jobs in Sacramento, CA
What are the best companies a Caterer can work for?

-
Bon Appétit
Average Salary: $75,816
Bon Appétit offers exciting Caterer jobs with a focus on providing high-quality food services. They work with schools, hospitals, and universities across the country. Locations include major cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago.
-
Eurest
Average Salary: $59,923
Eurest provides Caterer jobs with a strong emphasis on innovation and customer satisfaction. They serve a variety of sectors, including corporate, healthcare, and education. They operate in many states, including California, Texas, and Florida.
-
Compass Group
Average Salary: $55,951
Compass Group offers a range of Caterer jobs with opportunities for growth and development. They work with schools, hospitals, and businesses. They have locations in many states, including Illinois, Pennsylvania, and Ohio.
-
ISS Facility Services
Average Salary: $51,281
ISS Facility Services offers Caterer jobs with a focus on delivering excellent service. They work with a variety of clients, including schools, hospitals, and businesses. They operate in many states, including New York, California, and Texas.
-
Restaurant Associates
Average Salary: $50,591
Restaurant Associates offers Caterer jobs with a commitment to quality and service. They work with schools, hospitals, and businesses. They have locations in many states, including New York, California, and Florida.
-
Metz Culinary Management
Average Salary: $48,308
Metz Culinary Management offers Caterer jobs with a focus on creating memorable dining experiences. They work with a variety of clients, including schools, hospitals, and businesses. They operate in many states, including California, Texas, and Florida.
-
Morrison Healthcare
Average Salary: $48,129
Morrison Healthcare offers Caterer jobs with a commitment to providing excellent food services. They work with schools, hospitals, and businesses. They have locations in many states, including Illinois, Pennsylvania, and Ohio.
-
ZeroCater
Average Salary: $47,833
ZeroCater offers Caterer jobs with a focus on delivering high-quality food services. They work with a variety of clients, including schools, hospitals, and businesses. They operate in many states, including California, New York, and Texas.
-
Antelope Valley Medical Center
Average Salary: $47,394
Antelope Valley Medical Center offers Caterer jobs with a commitment to providing excellent food services. They work with hospitals and healthcare facilities. They operate in California.
-
SAGE Dining Services
Average Salary: $44,429
SAGE Dining Services offers Caterer jobs with a focus on delivering high-quality food services. They work with schools, hospitals, and businesses. They operate in many states, including California, New York, and Florida.
How to earn more as a Caterer?
Caterers can increase their earnings by focusing on several key areas. One of the most effective ways is to specialize in a niche market. This could mean catering to specific dietary needs, such as vegan or gluten-free options, or focusing on corporate events, weddings, or private parties. Specialization allows a caterer to stand out and attract clients who are willing to pay a premium for specialized services.
Another factor is to enhance the quality of food and service. Investing in high-quality ingredients and training staff to provide excellent service can lead to higher customer satisfaction and repeat business. Positive reviews and word-of-mouth recommendations can also bring in more clients. Additionally, offering unique menu items or seasonal specials can keep the menu fresh and appealing to customers. Networking with other businesses and attending industry events can open up new opportunities and partnerships, further increasing income. Finally, expanding the business through online marketing and social media presence can reach a wider audience and attract more clients.
Here are some key factors to consider:
- Specialize in a niche market
- Enhance food and service quality
- Offer unique menu items
- Network with other businesses
- Expand through online marketing



