Busser Salary in St. Petersburg, FL
Bussers in St. Petersburg, FL, in 2025, earn approximately $11.00 per hour, which comes to about $440.00 per week, $1,906.67 per month, and $22,880.00 per year.
The demand for Bussers in St. Petersburg is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy and expanding market for support roles in the restaurant and hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Busser Make in St. Petersburg, FL?
The salary of a Busser in St. Petersburg can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general overview based on different 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 St. Petersburg Earn Tips?
Bussers often receive tips in addition to their base salary, typically earning an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the restaurant and shift. This can significantly boost overall earnings, especially during busy hours and at higher-end establishments.
Busser Salary in St. Petersburg vs. National Average
Nationally, Bussers earn an average of about $14.24 per hour, which translates to around $29,619.20 per year.
In comparison, the average Busser in St. Petersburg earns less than the national average, at approximately $11.00 per hour and $22,880.00 annually. This difference may reflect local economic factors and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near St. Petersburg for Bussers
When looking at nearby areas, Busser salaries can vary slightly:
- Downtown St. Petersburg: $12.50 per hour
- Historic Old Northeast: $12.00 per hour
Working in areas such as Downtown St. Petersburg can offer Bussers a higher wage compared to other parts of the city.
What Influences a Busser’s Salary in St. Petersburg?
Several factors affect how much a Busser can earn in St. Petersburg:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Bussers with strong work ethics and efficiency can command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Higher-end restaurants and hotels generally pay better than casual dining or fast-food venues.
- Shift Timing: Evening shifts, weekends, and holidays may offer higher pay or more tips.
- Geographic Location: Working in upscale neighborhoods or busy tourist areas can translate to better pay and more tips.
- Additional Responsibilities: Bussers who take on extra duties such as light server tasks or assisting in setup may receive increased compensation.
How To Become a Busser in St. Petersburg
Becoming a Busser in St. Petersburg usually involves some fundamental steps to establish a foothold in the hospitality industry.
Here are key points to consider:
- Receive Basic Training: Programs like Pinellas Technical College Culinary Arts Program provide useful knowledge in culinary skills and restaurant operations that benefit aspiring Bussers.
- Study Hospitality Principles: Courses such as St. Petersburg College Hospitality and Tourism Management offer insights into industry standards and excellent service practices.
- Obtain Certifications: Certifications like ServSafe Food Handler Certification showcase knowledge of food safety, often required for food service roles.
- Consider Responsible Vendor Training: Especially helpful for Bussers working in establishments serving alcohol to ensure responsible service.
Top Employers Hiring Bussers in St. Petersburg
Several prominent employers in St. Petersburg are frequently looking to hire Bussers:
- Red Robin
- Kobe Ichiban Japanese Steakhouse
- Colony Grill
- Morrison Healthcare
- First Watch
Establishments That Bussers in St. Petersburg Work At
Bussers typically find employment across various types of establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These often have steady shifts and moderate pay but provide good experience.
- Fast-Casual Eateries: Bussers here often have a faster-paced environment and may earn less base pay but can receive tips.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Usually offer higher wages and more tip opportunities.
- Hotels and Resorts: May provide more reliable hours and benefits, which can affect overall compensation.
- Catering and Event Venues: Tend to have varying pay depending on event schedules and size.
The type of establishment significantly impacts both the base salary and tip potential for Bussers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in St. Petersburg for Bussers
If you're exploring careers related to a Busser, here are some similar roles within the hospitality industry:
These include Backwaiter, Cashier, and Dishwasher positions, which share similar entry requirements and workplace environments.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bussers in St. Petersburg
Bussers should be aware of local, state, and federal labor laws to ensure fair treatment and proper compliance in their employment.
- Visit the U.S. Department of Labor official website for comprehensive federal labor laws and regulations.
- The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation site offers resources on state licensing and regulation relevant to hospitality workers.
- For local information, including specific county ordinances, consult the official Pinellas County website.