Meat Cutter Salaries

Meat cutters play an important role in the food industry, and their salaries reflect the skills they bring to the job. On average, a meat cutter earns about $37,210 per year. However, salaries can vary based on experience and location. Those starting out might earn around $25,600, while seasoned professionals can make up to $50,000 annually.

As experience grows, so does salary. Many meat cutters see gradual increases in their pay. For instance, someone with a few years in the field may earn closer to $32,255, while those who excel in their craft and take on more responsibility can earn as much as $44,345. The potential for earnings increases as you learn and develop your skills.

Overall, a career as a meat cutter can be rewarding, not just in terms of job satisfaction, but also financially.

1. Seattle, WA
   Average Salary: $50,896
   Working as a meat specialist in Seattle offers a vibrant environment with a focus on fresh, quality products. Prominent companies like Safeway and Whole Foods provide opportunities to work with local farms and ensure high standards of meat preparation.
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2. San Francisco, CA
   Average Salary: $47,283
   In San Francisco, meat professionals enjoy a blend of traditional techniques and contemporary culinary trends. Renowned establishments such as Bi-Rite Market emphasize locally sourced meats, allowing for creativity and variety in preparation.
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3. Honolulu, HI
   Average Salary: $43,681
   In Honolulu, specialists in meat preparation play a crucial role in supporting the islands' unique cuisine. Local markets and restaurants offer fresh, flavorful options, making it an exciting place to showcase your skills in meat cutting.
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4. Sacramento, CA
   Average Salary: $43,215
   Sacramento's thriving food scene provides a great backdrop for meat experts. Local farms supply a wide range of meats, and working with companies like Nugget Markets allows for creative expression while serving a community that appreciates quality.
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5. Reno, NV
   Average Salary: $42,561
   Reno presents a growing market for skilled meat professionals. Opportunities at grocery stores like Raley's and local butcher shops allow you to work closely with customers, emphasizing quality cuts and fresh preparation.
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6. Minneapolis, MN
   Average Salary: $42,234
   Minneapolis features a strong market for those skilled in meat cutting. Distinctive local butcher shops and larger grocery chains like Cub Foods create an engaging atmosphere where you can work with high-quality meats and diverse clientele.
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7. Riverside, CA
   Average Salary: $42,234
   Working in Riverside offers meat specialists the chance to engage with a diverse community. Local grocery chains and specialty shops highlight fresh meats, where you can apply your skills to prepare various cuts for customers.
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8. Kansas City, MO
   Average Salary: $41,932
   Kansas City is famous for its barbecue culture, making it an exciting place for meat specialists. Local restaurants and markets, along with iconic brands like Gates Bar-B-Q, create a lively atmosphere for sharing skills and knowledge about meats.
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9. Buffalo, NY
   Average Salary: $41,898
   Buffalo's food culture embraces a variety of meat offerings. Local butchers and grocery stores provide strong job opportunities, allowing you to work with regional favorites while serving a community that values quality.
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10. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $41,834
    San Jose offers a dynamic market for meat professionals. With its diverse population, local markets and grocery chains like Lucky provide a platform to showcase your expertise in preparing an array of flavorful meats.
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1. Mollie Stone's Markets
   Average Salary: $53,882
   Mollie Stone's Markets offers competitive salaries to Meat Cutters, averaging $53,882 per year. The company is known for high-quality products and excellent customer service. They operate in California, providing a friendly working environment.
   




2. Wakefern Food Corporation
   Average Salary: $51,726
   Wakefern Food Corporation, located in various states, employs Meat Cutters with an average salary of $51,726. The company’s commitment to fresh food brings a strong focus to their meat department, fostering good practices and team collaboration.
   




3. Raley's / Bel Air / Nob Hill
   Average Salary: $51,384
   Raley's, along with Bel Air and Nob Hill, pays its Meat Cutters about $51,384 annually. They are popular grocery chains in California and Nevada, emphasizing quality and customer satisfaction while ensuring a supportive work culture.
   




4. Peak Utility Services Group
   Average Salary: $50,400
   Peak Utility Services Group, while primarily a utility provider, offers roles for Meat Cutters as well. They provide an average salary of $50,400. Locations vary, and employees benefit from a dynamic work environment.
   




5. The Save Mart Companies
   Average Salary: $48,438
   The Save Mart Companies offer their Meat Cutters an average salary of $48,438. This grocery store chain operates in California and Nevada, focusing on fresh, local products and promoting a friendly workplace.
   




6. Costco Wholesale
   Average Salary: $47,983
   Costco Wholesale employs Meat Cutters at an average salary of $47,983. The company is known nationwide for its bulk purchasing and quality goods, providing opportunities in many locations across the United States.
   




7. Superior Grocers
   Average Salary: $47,803
   Superior Grocers offers an average salary of $47,803 for its Meat Cutters. The company serves predominantly the Southern California area, focusing on affordable groceries and fresh produce while valuing its employees.
   




8. Tops Friendly Markets
   Average Salary: $46,596
   Tops Friendly Markets, headquartered in New York, pays its Meat Cutters an average of $46,596. The company strives to provide exceptional quality and service in their stores across New York, Pennsylvania, and Vermont.
   




9. Sysco
   Average Salary: $46,385
   Sysco, a major player in food distribution, provides Meat Cutters with a salary averaging $46,385. They serve customers across the United States, focusing on quality and efficiency in food service operations.
   




10. Nugget Market
    Average Salary: $46,067
    Nugget Market offers its Meat Cutters an average salary of $46,067. Operating mainly in Northern California, the company is known for high-quality food products and exceptional customer service, creating a supportive work atmosphere.
    

• Experience: Gain hands-on experience. The more years you work as a Meat Cutter, the higher your pay can become.
• Certifications: Obtain relevant certifications. Many employers pay more for certified workers because they bring valuable skills.
• Specialized Skills: Learn specialized cutting techniques. Knowing how to handle various meats like beef, poultry, and pork can make you more valuable.
• Location: Work in a high-demand area. Wages often increase in places with a greater need for Meat Cutters.
• Performance: Show strong performance and reliability. Being a trusted worker can lead to raises and promotions.