How much does a Meat Cutter make?
Meat cutters play an essential role in grocery stores and butcher shops. They cut and package meat for customers. The salary for this job can vary. Many meat cutters earn between $26,102 and $60,000 a year. The average yearly salary is around $41,369.
The pay for meat cutters depends on their experience and the place where they work. Beginners may start with a salary on the lower end of the scale. With more experience, meat cutters can move up the salary ladder. Here is a look at the salary distribution for meat cutters:
- 10% earn less than $29,184
- 20% earn less than $32,265
- 30% earn less than $35,347
- 40% earn less than $38,429
- 50% earn less than $41,510
- 60% earn less than $44,592
- 70% earn less than $47,673
- 80% earn less than $50,755
- 90% earn less than $53,837
- 95% earn less than $56,918
What are the highest paying cities for a Meat Cutter?

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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $48,431
In Seattle, working at local grocery chains like Fred Meyer offers a dynamic work environment. Employees enjoy a supportive team and opportunities to learn about various cuts of meat.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $48,349
Sacramento presents a chance to work in busy supermarkets like Raley's. The fast-paced setting provides a chance to gain valuable experience in a high-demand position.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $46,615
In Santa Rosa, positions at stores such as Save Mart provide a friendly atmosphere. Employees often work with skilled staff and can develop expertise in meat preparation.
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Honolulu, HI
Average Salary: $45,453
Working as a meat cutter in Honolulu means joining local businesses like Foodland. The job includes a chance to serve a diverse community and learn about various types of meat.
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St. Louis, MO
Average Salary: $45,187
In St. Louis, positions at Schnucks allow employees to work in a fast-paced environment. The job involves teamwork and the chance to develop important skills in meat cutting.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $45,120
San Jose offers opportunities to work at stores like Lucky. The job involves handling various types of meat and working with a diverse team in a busy setting.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $44,995
In San Francisco, positions at Trader Joe's provide a unique experience. Employees work in a collaborative environment and gain expertise in preparing different cuts of meat.
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Buffalo, NY
Average Salary: $44,844
Buffalo offers a chance to work at Wegmans. The job involves teamwork and the opportunity to learn from experienced staff in a well-supported environment.
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Stockton, CA
Average Salary: $44,795
In Stockton, working at stores like Save Mart provides a supportive work environment. Employees gain valuable experience and work with a diverse team in a busy setting.
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Kansas City, MO
Average Salary: $44,190
Kansas City offers opportunities at stores like Hy-Vee. The job involves teamwork and the chance to develop skills in meat preparation in a dynamic environment.
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What are the best companies a Meat Cutter can work for?

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Wakefern Food Corporation
Average Salary: $56,281
Wakefern Food Corporation, operating under names like ShopRite, offers Meat Cutter positions with competitive pay. This company runs stores in New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and Delaware. Workers enjoy good benefits and chances for advancement.
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Raley's / Bel Air / Nob Hill
Average Salary: $55,568
Raley's, Bel Air, and Nob Hill provide rewarding Meat Cutter jobs. These stores are located in California. Employees often work in well-stocked meat departments and enjoy a family-friendly atmosphere.
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Whole Foods Market
Average Salary: $51,227
Whole Foods Market hires Meat Cutters for its stores in many states. Workers in these roles enjoy a positive work environment and a commitment to natural and organic products.
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The Save Mart Companies
Average Salary: $49,990
The Save Mart Companies, with brands like Lucky Supermarkets, offer Meat Cutter positions in California. Employees work in busy meat sections and benefit from competitive pay and team support.
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New Seasons Market
Average Salary: $47,035
New Seasons Market provides Meat Cutter jobs in Oregon. Employees enjoy a vibrant work culture and the chance to work in well-known stores like New Seasons and Whole Foods Market.
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Bristol Farms
Average Salary: $46,995
Bristol Farms offers Meat Cutter roles in Southern California. Workers here enjoy a strong sense of community and good pay.
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WinCo Foods
Average Salary: $46,205
WinCo Foods operates in the Northwest and offers Meat Cutter positions. Employees benefit from a family-owned company culture and steady employment opportunities.
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Quality Food Centers (QFC)
Average Salary: $45,982
QFC, a part of Kroger, provides Meat Cutter jobs in Washington, Oregon, and California. Workers here enjoy benefits and a focus on customer service.
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Fred Meyer
Average Salary: $45,931
Fred Meyer offers Meat Cutter jobs across the Northwest. Employees here enjoy a supportive work environment and the chance to work in well-stocked stores.
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Price Chopper Supermarkets
Average Salary: $44,969
Price Chopper Supermarkets provide Meat Cutter positions in New York and Vermont. Employees benefit from a strong company culture and good benefits.
How to earn more as a Meat Cutter?
Becoming a Meat Cutter can open the door to a fulfilling career in the food industry. Those who aim to earn more in this role should focus on several key factors. Developing expertise in meat processing and presentation can make a significant difference. Knowing how to cut, package, and display meats properly not only ensures quality but can also lead to higher tips and sales.
Seeking additional responsibilities can help increase earnings. Working behind the counter or managing inventory can provide opportunities for bonuses and higher wages. Building strong customer relationships and providing excellent service can also lead to repeat business, which boosts overall sales. Networking within the industry and staying updated with the latest trends and techniques can offer career advancement options, further increasing income potential.
Consider these factors to enhance job performance and increase earnings as a Meat Cutter:
- Develop expertise in meat processing and presentation
- Take on additional responsibilities like inventory management
- Build strong customer relationships for repeat business
- Stay updated with industry trends and techniques
- Network within the industry for career advancement



