Busser Salary in Costa Mesa, CA
Bussers in Costa Mesa, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $18.33 per hour, which translates to about $733.20 per week, $3,177.20 per month, and $38,126.40 per year.
The demand for Bussers in Costa Mesa is positive, with a steady growth rate of about 5% per year, indicating a growing need for support staff in the hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Busser Make in Costa Mesa, CA?
The salary of a Busser in Costa Mesa varies by experience level, but here is an overview of earnings across entry-level, mid-level, and top earners.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.00 | $640.00 | $2,773.33 | $33,280.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.33 | $733.20 | $3,177.20 | $38,126.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.89 | $875.60 | $3,784.53 | $45,531.20 |
Do Bussers in Costa Mesa Earn Tips?
Bussers usually receive tips as part of their earnings, often sharing a portion of tips from servers. They can make an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and shift.
Busser Salary in Costa Mesa vs. National Average
Nationally, Bussers earn around $14.24 per hour, equating to about $29,619.20 per year.
Bussers in Costa Mesa earn significantly more than the national average, with an average salary of $18.33 per hour and $38,126.40 annually, reflecting the local cost of living and hospitality market demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Costa Mesa for Bussers
When considering nearby areas, Bussers can expect varying salaries:
- South Coast Plaza: $20.96 per hour
- Downtown Costa Mesa: $21.89 per hour
Downtown Costa Mesa offers some of the highest wages for Bussers in the region, followed closely by South Coast Plaza.
What Influences a Busser’s Salary in Costa Mesa?
The salary of a Busser in Costa Mesa is influenced by several factors:
- Experience and Skill: More experienced Bussers with strong multitasking and customer service skills can command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants and upscale hotels generally pay higher salaries than casual or fast-food venues.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts may offer shift differentials that increase pay.
- Location Within Costa Mesa: Working in high-traffic or tourist areas often results in higher pay and more tips.
- Certifications and Training: Food safety certifications can enhance employability and salary prospects.
How To Become a Busser in Costa Mesa
Becoming a Busser typically requires minimal formal education but certain steps can improve job prospects:
- Complete Basic Food Safety Certifications: Obtaining a California Food Handler Card or ServSafe Food Handler Certification is often mandatory.
- Gain Relevant Training: Programs like the Orange Coast College Culinary Arts Program or Santa Ana College Hospitality Management Program provide foundational hospitality skills.
- Develop Customer Service Skills: Excellent communication and teamwork skills are essential in front-of-house roles.
- Obtain Practical Experience: Entry-level roles in restaurants or catering companies help build experience.
Top Employers Hiring Bussers in Costa Mesa
Leading employers frequently hiring Bussers in Costa Mesa include:
- Cafe Sevilla
- Nordstrom
- The Crack Shack
- Water Grill
- Din Tai Fung
Establishments That Bussers in Costa Mesa Work At
Bussers find employment opportunities in a range of establishments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These often offer moderate pay and tips, with opportunities for advancement.
- Fast Casual Chains: Busser positions here usually offer consistent work hours but lower wages.
- Fine Dining Venues: Work here typically commands higher hourly pay and tip shares due to upscale clientele.
- Hotels and Resorts: These can provide steady employment with benefits and sometimes higher wages.
The type of establishment significantly affects the earning potential and working conditions for Bussers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Costa Mesa for Bussers
If you’re considering roles similar to Busser, you might explore positions that involve guest service and hospitality support.
Similar roles include Backwaiter, Fine Dining Server, and Server positions, which offer different duties and pay scales but overlap with Busser responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bussers in Costa Mesa
Bussers should familiarize themselves with labor laws and tax regulations relevant to their work:
- California Department of Industrial Relations provides detailed state labor laws and regulations.
- The Internal Revenue Service offers federal tax information pertinent for employees and employers.
- For local policies and resources, consult the City of Costa Mesa official website.