Pricing model: most caterers price per-head rather than hourly (see the cost-per-head calculator), hourly figures here reflect planning/consultation time.
Menu complexity: plated, multi-course service commands more than buffet-style or drop-off catering.
Staffing: full-service events requiring serving staff and rentals coordination price higher than drop-off-only catering.
Minimums: most caterers set a minimum guest count or order size below which the per-person price rises to cover fixed costs.
Starting out vs. established
New independent caterer typically land near the $20/hr end while building a client base and reputation. Once you have proof of results and repeat or referred clients, the $35/hr median becomes realistic. Specialists with a strong track record and reputation routinely reach $90/hr or more.