Busser Salary in Huntington Beach, CA
Bussers in Huntington Beach, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $16.50 per hour, which translates to about $660.00 per week, $2,860.00 per month, and $34,320.00 per year.
The demand for Bussers is growing steadily with a 5% annual growth rate, indicating a positive and expanding job market in the Huntington Beach area for this role.
How Much Does a Busser Make in Huntington Beach, CA?
The salary of a Busser in Huntington Beach varies depending on experience level. The following table breaks down typical earnings for different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,433.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,947.33 | $35,360.00 |
Do Bussers in Huntington Beach Earn Tips?
Bussers typically earn tips in addition to their base salary. While tips can vary widely based on the restaurant's clientele and service style, a Busser can expect to earn an extra estimated $3 to $6 per hour in tips, which can significantly boost their overall income.
Busser Salary in Huntington Beach vs. National Average
Nationally, Bussers earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which equates to approximately $30,160.00 per year.
Comparatively, Bussers in Huntington Beach earn a higher hourly rate and annual salary, with an average hourly wage of $16.50 and annual earnings around $34,320.00.
This difference can be attributed to the coastal location, higher living costs, and demand for hospitality staff in the Huntington Beach area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Huntington Beach for Bussers
Nearby areas offer slightly higher pay for Bussers, as shown below:
- Downtown Huntington Beach: $17.50 per hour
- Huntington Harbour: $18.00 per hour
Bussers in these neighborhoods can expect to earn a higher wage than the city average, reflecting the affluence and restaurant concentration in these locations.
What Influences a Busser’s Salary in Huntington Beach?
Several factors impact how much a Busser can earn in Huntington Beach:
- Experience and Skills: More experienced Bussers with strong customer service and multitasking skills often command better wages.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants and busy dining spots tend to pay higher wages and offer more in tips than casual or fast-food venues.
- Shift Timing: Evening, weekend, or holiday shifts may pay more due to higher demand and increased tipping potential.
- Local Economic Conditions: The cost of living in Huntington Beach influences wages to remain competitive.
- Employer Size and Reputation: Larger chains may offer benefits and steady pay, while boutique restaurants may offer more in tips.
How To Become a Busser in Huntington Beach
To start a career as a Busser in Huntington Beach, consider these steps:
- Gain Basic Culinary and Hospitality Knowledge: Programs like the Orange Coast College Culinary Arts Program provide foundational training in restaurant operations, beneficial for Bussers wanting to grow.
- Understand Hospitality Management: Enrolling in the Golden West College Hospitality Management Program can offer insights into service quality and restaurant dynamics.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: The California Food Handler Card is mandatory for food service workers, and the ServSafe Certification adds credibility and knowledge about safe food handling.
- Develop Soft Skills: Strong communication, teamwork, and multitasking abilities are critical to success.
Top Employers Hiring Bussers in Huntington Beach
Several established and popular dining establishments commonly hire Bussers in Huntington Beach, including:
- Olive Garden
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Simmzy's
- Polly's Pies
- Bluegold
Establishments That Bussers in Huntington Beach Work At
Bussers can be employed across a variety of establishments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often offer moderate base pay with steady tip income.
- Fast Casual Chains: These provide consistent work hours but usually lower tips compared to full-service restaurants.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Bussers here typically earn higher wages and greater tip shares, reflecting the premium service level.
- Hotel Restaurants and Resorts: May offer more stable salaries and benefits along with tips.
The type of establishment has a significant influence on overall compensation for Bussers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Huntington Beach for Bussers
If you are considering other roles related to the Busser position, some similar careers include:
These include Backwaiter, Dishwasher, and Food Runner positions, which share similarities in duties and can serve as career pathways.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bussers in Huntington Beach
Bussers should be aware of important labor laws and tax resources relevant to employment in Huntington Beach:
- Visit the California Department of Industrial Relations for details on state labor laws and workplace regulations.
- The California Employment Development Department offers resources on employment benefits and tax information.
- For comprehensive federal labor guidelines, consult the U.S. Department of Labor.