Busser Salary in San Diego, CA
Bussers in San Diego, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $17.59 per hour, which translates to about $703.60 per week, $3,048.93 per month, and $36,587.20 per year.
The demand for Bussers in San Diego is growing steadily at about 5%, indicating promising career opportunities and consistent job availability in the hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Busser Make in San Diego?
The salary of a Busser in San Diego can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general look at earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.00 | $400.00 | $1,733.33 | $20,800.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $11.00 | $440.00 | $1,906.67 | $22,880.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $13.00 | $520.00 | $2,246.67 | $27,040.00 |
Do Bussers in San Diego Earn Tips?
Bussers often earn tips in addition to their base pay.
Typically, a Busser in San Diego may earn an additional $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and shift.
Busser Salary in San Diego vs. National Average
Nationally, Bussers earn an average of around $14.18 per hour, translating to about $29,494.40 per year.
When compared to the national average, Bussers in San Diego earn slightly more at about $17.59 per hour and $36,587.20 annually.
This difference can be attributed to San Diego's higher cost of living and the region's thriving hospitality industry.
Highest-Paying Areas Near San Diego for Bussers
Looking at nearby areas, Busser salaries vary as follows:
- Downtown: $18.50 per hour
- La Jolla: $18.00 per hour
Bussers commuting to Downtown or La Jolla may find slightly better pay compared to other areas, reflecting the upscale dining and busy restaurant scenes.
What Influences a Busser’s Salary in San Diego?
Several factors impact the salary a Busser can earn in San Diego:
- Experience and Skills: More experienced Bussers with strong customer service skills may command higher wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and busy venues typically offer better pay and tipping opportunities than smaller casual eateries.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts tend to be busier and can result in more tipping potential.
- Location: Bussers working in popular tourist areas or downtown locations often earn more.
How To Become a Busser in San Diego
Starting a career as a Busser in San Diego involves several key steps and qualifications.
Basic requirements include a Food Handler's Card to demonstrate knowledge of food safety practices, which is essential for working in food service environments.
Many employers also prefer candidates with ServSafe Certification, a nationally recognized credential in food safety and sanitation.
There are valuable educational programs in the area to build experience, such as the San Diego Mesa College Culinary Arts Program which offers comprehensive training in culinary skills including food preparation and kitchen management.
Another option is Grossmont College’s Hospitality and Tourism Management program, providing education in hospitality services, restaurant operations, and customer service.
Gaining on-the-job experience by working in entry-level roles and demonstrating strong work ethic and teamwork is crucial for advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Bussers in San Diego
The following employers are known to hire Bussers in the San Diego area:
- Dave & Buster's
- Olive Garden
- UC San Diego
Establishments That Bussers in San Diego Work At
Bussers typically find work in a variety of establishments across San Diego, including:
- Casual Restaurants: These venues often hire Bussers to assist with table turnover and customer service, with wages reflecting the casual dining segment.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Bussers at these establishments may experience a faster-paced environment but generally earn moderate wages.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Bussers working in upscale dining settings usually receive higher salaries and better tipping opportunities.
- Hotels and Event Venues: These places can provide steady employment and often pay competitive wages.
The specific type of establishment has a direct impact on both base salary and tip potential for Bussers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in San Diego for Bussers
If you are exploring careers related to being a Busser, here are a few similar positions that might interest you:
These roles include Backwaiter, Food Runner, and Dishwasher — all integral support positions in the hospitality industry with varying responsibilities and salary potential.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Busser in San Diego
Knowing your rights and responsibilities under labor laws is important for Bussers working in San Diego.
- For federal labor laws and regulations, visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations.
- California state-specific laws and workplace standards can be found at the California Department of Industrial Relations.
- Local employment resources and regulations are available on the City of San Diego official website.