How much does a Meat Cutter make?
Meat cutters play an essential role in grocery stores and supermarkets. Their work involves cutting and wrapping meat for customers. On average, meat cutters earn around $39,452 a year. This salary can vary based on experience and location. Some meat cutters may earn more, especially in areas with higher living costs.
The salary data shows a range of earnings for meat cutters. At the lower end, some meat cutters make about $26,100 a year. As experience and skills increase, so does the salary. The highest earners in this field make around $57,900 per year. This data highlights the potential for growth and advancement in this career. Meat cutters who gain more experience and take on additional responsibilities often see their salaries rise.
What are the highest paying cities for a Meat Cutter?

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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $47,810
In Seattle, work in bustling grocery stores and butcher shops. Companies like Costco and Whole Foods offer good opportunities. Enjoy the fresh produce and seafood available in this vibrant city.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $47,540
Sacramento presents a chance to work in a variety of local grocery chains. Companies such as Raley's and Albertsons offer solid opportunities. Enjoy the city's laid-back vibe and diverse food culture.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $46,915
In San Francisco, find work in many upscale markets and specialty butcheries. Companies like Safeway and local artisanal shops provide varied roles. Experience the city's rich culinary scene.
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Honolulu, HI
Average Salary: $46,091
Honolulu offers a unique opportunity to work in diverse food environments. Local markets and chain stores like Whole Foods provide good options. Enjoy the island's fresh seafood and tropical ingredients.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $45,299
Santa Rosa provides work in both small local shops and larger grocery chains. Companies like Smith's and local butcheries offer varied positions. Experience the beauty of Northern California's wine country.
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St. Louis, MO
Average Salary: $45,229
In St. Louis, work in grocery chains and local butcher shops. Companies such as Schnucks and local independent stores offer diverse roles. Enjoy the city's rich barbecue culture and affordable cost of living.
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Kansas City, MO
Average Salary: $45,221
Kansas City offers roles in many local grocery stores and specialty meat shops. Companies like HEB and local butcheries provide good opportunities. Enjoy the city's famous BBQ and welcoming community.
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Buffalo, NY
Average Salary: $44,807
Buffalo provides work in several grocery chains and local markets. Companies like Wegmans and smaller shops offer a variety of roles. Enjoy the city's rich culinary scene and affordable living costs.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $44,022
In San Jose, find work in numerous grocery stores and local butcher shops. Companies such as Lucky and local artisan markets offer varied opportunities. Experience Silicon Valley’s vibrant tech and food culture.
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Riverside, CA
Average Salary: $43,476
Riverside offers roles in a range of grocery chains and local butcher shops. Companies like Ralphs and independent stores provide good opportunities. Enjoy the city’s beautiful parks and family-friendly 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: $56,138
Wakefern Food Corporation offers Meat Cutter positions with competitive salaries. They operate many grocery stores across the Northeast, including ShopRite stores. They focus on quality and customer service, providing opportunities for Meat Cutters to grow in their careers.
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Raley's / Bel Air / Nob Hill
Average Salary: $54,669
Raley's and its sister companies, Bel Air and Nob Hill, provide lucrative Meat Cutter jobs with salaries over $54,000. These companies serve California and Nevada, offering a range of locations where Meat Cutters can work. They emphasize community and customer satisfaction, which shapes their work environment.
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The Save Mart Companies
Average Salary: $51,153
The Save Mart Companies pay around $51,000 for Meat Cutter jobs. They operate in California and offer a family-friendly environment. Meat Cutters here find opportunities for professional growth, with locations in many towns and cities across the state.
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Whole Foods Market
Average Salary: $49,464
Whole Foods Market offers Meat Cutter positions with salaries around $49,000. Known for high-quality food, they serve many states across the U.S. Meat Cutters at Whole Foods enjoy a supportive work culture and opportunities to advance.
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Town and Country foods
Average Salary: $48,333
Town and Country foods provide Meat Cutter salaries of about $48,000. Operating in several states, they offer a welcoming atmosphere for Meat Cutters. They focus on customer service and quality, making their locations a great place to work.
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Nugget Market
Average Salary: $46,125
Nugget Market offers Meat Cutter jobs with salaries around $46,000. They serve customers in California and Nevada. Meat Cutters here benefit from a supportive environment and opportunities to grow their skills.
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Quality Food Centers (QFC)
Average Salary: $45,493
QFC pays Meat Cutters about $45,000. They operate many stores in Washington and California. QFC values its employees, offering a friendly work environment where Meat Cutters can thrive.
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Bristol Farms
Average Salary: $45,316
Bristol Farms offers Meat Cutter positions with salaries around $45,000. Serving customers in California, they focus on quality and customer service. Meat Cutters here enjoy a pleasant work atmosphere.
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Fred Meyer
Average Salary: $44,888
Fred Meyer provides Meat Cutter jobs with salaries about $45,000. They operate in several western states. Fred Meyer offers a supportive environment where Meat Cutters can develop their skills.
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Lorentz Meats
Average Salary: $44,581
Lorentz Meats offers Meat Cutter positions with salaries around $44,000. They specialize in meat products and operate in various locations. Meat Cutters here benefit from a niche, focused work environment.
How to earn more as a Meat Cutter?
Want to earn more as a Meat Cutter? There are several ways to increase your earnings in this role. Start by seeking positions in high-end grocery stores, specialty butcher shops, or upscale restaurants. These places often pay better due to the higher demand for quality meat products. Improving your skills can also lead to higher pay. Learning to handle different types of meat and mastering various cutting techniques can make you more valuable to an employer.
Another way to earn more is by seeking opportunities for advancement. Positions such as Meat Department Manager or Head Butcher often come with higher salaries. Networking within the industry can open doors to these higher-paying roles. Attending trade shows, joining professional associations, and connecting with peers can provide valuable insights and opportunities. Working during peak hours, such as weekends or holidays, can also result in higher wages or bonus pay.
Consider these factors to boost your earnings as a Meat Cutter:
- Work in high-end establishments
- Improve your skills and techniques
- Seek advancement opportunities
- Network within the industry
- Work during peak hours



