Busser Salary in Garden-Grove, CA
Bussers in Garden-Grove, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $18.00 per hour, which translates to about $720.00 per week, $3,120.00 per month, and $37,440.00 per year.
The demand for Bussers in Garden-Grove is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive trend in job opportunities for this role within the city's dining and hospitality sector.
How Much Does a Busser Make in Garden-Grove, CA?
The salary of a Busser in Garden-Grove can vary depending on experience and employer, but here is a general look at earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.50 | $660.00 | $2,860.00 | $34,320.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.83 | $873.20 | $3,770.13 | $45,386.56 |
Do Bussers in Garden-Grove Earn Tips?
Bussers often earn tips in addition to their base salary. While it varies by establishment, Bussers typically make an extra approximately $5 to $10 per hour in tips depending on the venue and shift, significantly enhancing their total earnings.
Busser Salary in Garden-Grove vs. National Average
Nationally, Bussers earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which translates to about $30,160 annually.
Bussers in Garden-Grove make more than the national average, with a typical hourly wage of $18.00 and a yearly salary of about $37,440.00.
This higher pay reflects the cost of living and strong hospitality industry demand in the Garden-Grove area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Garden-Grove for Bussers
Nearby cities offer slightly different salary levels for Bussers, such as:
- Fullerton: $20.73 per hour
- Orange: $18.00 per hour
Fullerton tends to offer the highest wages for Bussers nearby, providing options for those willing to commute.
What Influences a Busser’s Salary in Garden-Grove?
Several factors affect the salary of a Busser in Garden-Grove:
- Experience Level: More experienced Bussers tend to earn higher wages and receive larger tips.
- Establishment Type: Fine dining and upscale restaurants typically pay better salaries and offer more generous tips than casual dining or fast food.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts can sometimes include additional pay or better tipping opportunities.
- Skills and Reliability: Bussers who demonstrate strong work ethic, teamwork, and multitasking abilities often receive raises and preferred shifts.
- Local Economic Conditions: The cost of living and local hospitality industry health influence overall wage levels.
How To Become a Busser in Garden-Grove
Getting started as a Busser in Garden-Grove involves several key steps:
- Obtain Mandatory Food Handler Certifications: Starting with the California Food Handler Card and the nationally recognized ServSafe Food Handler Certification is essential for most employers.
- Gain Training in Hospitality or Culinary Programs: Programs like the Orange Coast College Culinary Arts Program or the Santa Ana College Hospitality Management Program provide valuable skills and insights related to bussing and front-of-house operations.
- Build Practical Experience: Entry-level work or internships in restaurants can help develop necessary skills and open pathways for advancement.
- Exhibit Strong Customer Service Skills: Bussers interact with customers and teams, so good communication and teamwork are important.
Top Employers Hiring Bussers in Garden-Grove
Several well-known restaurants actively hire Bussers in the Garden-Grove area, including:
- Red Lobster
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Olive Garden
Establishments That Bussers in Garden-Grove Work At
Bussers typically find employment in various types of dining establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These provide steady employment but may offer moderate wages and tip opportunities.
- Fast Casual Establishments: Bussers here often work at a faster pace with lower tips but consistent hours.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These venues usually offer the highest pay and tipping potential due to a higher price point and customer expectations.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger hospitality venues employ Bussers for banquet and event services, often offering competitive wages and benefits.
The type of establishment greatly influences a Busser’s total compensation and work environment.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Garden-Grove for Bussers
If you're considering careers similar to Bussers, here are some related roles in the hospitality sector:
These include Server, Backwaiter, and Banquet Server positions, which share similar work environments and can offer opportunities for career progression.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bussers in Garden-Grove
Bussers need to be aware of labor laws and tax regulations that apply to their work in Garden-Grove:
- California's state labor laws and regulations are overseen by the California Department of Industrial Relations, offering guidance on wages, breaks, and working conditions.
- The Internal Revenue Service provides federal tax information including earnings reporting, filing, and withholding.
- The California Employment Development Department offers resources for state employment services, unemployment benefits, and workforce programs.