Busser Salary in Boston, MA
Bussers in Boston, MA, in 2025, earn approximately $15.74 per hour, which translates to about $629.60 per week, $2,728.27 per month, and $32,739.20 per year.
The demand for Bussers in Boston is showing positive growth of around 5%, indicating a steadily increasing need for this position in the city's hospitality sector.
How Much Does a Busser Make in Boston?
The salary of a Busser in Boston can vary depending on experience and employer, but here is a general range based on different levels of experience.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.74 | $629.60 | $2,728.27 | $32,739.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.71 | $868.40 | $3,747.47 | $44,996.80 |
Do Bussers in Boston Earn Tips?
Bussers often earn tips as part of their compensation. On average, they can make an additional around $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and shift. This can significantly boost their overall income.
Busser Salary in Boston vs. National Average
Nationally, Bussers earn an average hourly wage of about $14.50, which corresponds to approximately $30,160 annually.
Compared to this, Bussers in Boston make slightly more, with an hourly wage of $15.74 and annual earnings around $32,739. This difference reflects the higher cost of living and restaurant activity in Boston.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Boston for Bussers
Looking at surrounding neighborhoods and towns, the following areas offer some of the highest pay for Bussers:
- Beverly: $19.78 per hour
- Westwood: $19.68 per hour
Busser salaries in these nearby locations tend to be higher than in Boston proper, which may attract those willing to commute.
What Influences a Busser’s Salary in Boston?
Several factors can influence how much a Busser earns in Boston:
- Experience: Bussers with more time on the job generally command higher wages.
- Skill level: Efficiency, customer service skills, and ability to multitask can impact pay and advancement.
- Type of establishment: High-end restaurants or busy venues typically pay more than casual dining.
- Shift timings: Evening or weekend shifts may come with higher pay due to increased demand.
- Tip earnings: Bussers in restaurants that emphasize tipping can supplement their base pay significantly.
How To Become a Busser in Boston
To start a career as a Busser in Boston, consider the following steps:
- Gain basic hospitality experience: Previous customer service or food service involvement helps.
- Complete relevant food safety training: Earning certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensures knowledge of safe service practices.
- Consider certifications for alcohol service: The TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification benefits those working in establishments serving alcohol.
- Enroll in hospitality programs: Boston University Metropolitan College's Certificate in Food & Beverage Management offers training relevant to restaurant operations and service roles, useful for bussers aiming to advance.
- Consider culinary courses: The Cambridge School of Culinary Arts' Professional Chef's Program provides exposure to kitchen operations and service fundamentals, aiding a well-rounded understanding of restaurant dynamics.
Top Employers Hiring Bussers in Boston
The following are prominent employers in Boston actively hiring Bussers:
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Legal Sea Foods
- Texas Roadhouse
Establishments That Bussers in Boston Work At
Bussers in Boston commonly work in various dining establishments including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These often provide steady schedules but may have moderate wages plus tips.
- Fast Casual Venues: Bussers here typically have quicker shifts with a moderate pay scale.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Bussers working in upscale restaurants usually receive higher base wages and more significant tips.
- Hotel Restaurants and Event Venues: These employ bussers for larger crowds, sometimes offering higher pay due to the volume of service.
The specific environment significantly affects the salary and tip potential for Bussers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Boston for Bussers
If you're exploring similar hospitality roles in Boston, here are a few to consider:
These roles include Backwaiter, Fine Dining Server, and Waiter/Waitress — all positions that share aspects of serving and customer interaction in the hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bussers in Boston
Understanding both federal and state labor laws is important for Bussers in Boston to ensure compliance and fair treatment.
- Visit the Massachusetts government website for detailed information on state-specific labor laws, wage standards, and employment regulations.
- Consult the U.S. Department of Labor's official website for federal workplace laws, minimum wage guidelines, and occupational safety rules.