Busser Salary in Tampa, FL
Bussers in Tampa, FL, in 2025, earn approximately $18.03 per hour, which translates to about $721.20 per week, $3,125.20 per month, and $37,502.40 per year.
The demand for Bussers in Tampa is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook with increasing job opportunities in the local restaurant and hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Busser Make in Tampa, FL?
The salary of a Busser in Tampa varies based on experience and individual employers. Below is a table outlining expected earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.03 | $721.20 | $3,125.20 | $37,502.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.15 | $926.00 | $4,004.67 | $48,152.00 |
Do Bussers in Tampa, FL Earn Tips?
Bussers typically earn tips in addition to their hourly wage. In Tampa, it's common for Bussers to make an extra about $2 to $5 per hour in tips, which can significantly enhance overall earnings, especially in busy or upscale restaurants.
Busser Salary in Tampa, FL vs. National Average
Nationally, Bussers earn an average of around $14.20 per hour, which translates to approximately $29,536 per year.
Compared to the national average, Bussers in Tampa earn more, at about $18.03 per hour and $37,502.40 annually. This higher pay reflects local market demand and cost of living factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Tampa for Bussers
Nearby neighborhoods offering higher pay for Bussers include:
- Downtown Tampa: $19.50 per hour
- Hyde Park: $20.00 per hour
These areas generally feature more upscale dining establishments with larger customer volumes, which typically contribute to greater earning potential for Bussers.
What Influences a Busser’s Salary in Tampa, FL?
Several important factors affect how much a Busser can earn in Tampa:
- Experience and Seniority: More experienced Bussers often earn higher wages and better tips.
- Establishment Type: High-end restaurants, hotels, and busy venues generally offer increased pay compared to casual or fast-food places.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts may come with higher pay or better tip potential.
- Skills and Efficiency: Bussers demonstrating excellent customer service, teamwork, and speed can enhance their reputation and earning opportunities.
- Local Economic Factors: Tampa's hospitality market growth and cost of living influence salary scales.
How To Become a Busser in Tampa, FL
Starting a career as a Busser in Tampa involves several actionable steps to improve job prospects and salary potential.
Consider pursuing training programs such as the Hillsborough Community College Hospitality Management Program which provides foundational knowledge useful for bussers aiming to grow in the industry. The Tampa Bay Hospitality Alliance Training also offers workshops on restaurant operations and guest service skills.
It is mandatory for all restaurant staff in Florida to obtain the Food Handler Certification, which ensures adherence to safe food handling practices. Bussers in establishments serving alcohol may benefit from completing Responsible Vendor Training to better understand legal responsibilities.
Practical experience remains crucial; many Bussers start by gaining hands-on experience in entry-level roles to build competence and move up.
Top Employers Hiring Bussers in Tampa, FL
Some of the top employers frequently hiring Bussers in Tampa include:
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Texas Roadhouse
- Olive Garden
Establishments That Bussers in Tampa Work At
Bussers are commonly employed across a variety of hospitality and food service venues in Tampa:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These establishments may offer competitive wages with steady tips due to frequent customer turnover.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Typically have faster-paced environments where busser pay might be on the lower side but with consistent hours.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Restaurants: Often pay higher base wages and provide better tip opportunities for Bussers owing to larger bills and customer tips.
- Hotels and Banquet Facilities: Employment here can offer stable shifts and in some cases higher wages especially in busy tourist seasons.
The type of establishment not only impacts salary but also the experience and skills required, which can affect future career advancement opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Tampa, FL for Bussers
For those interested in careers similar to Busser, here are a few related roles worth considering:
These roles include Backwaiter, Dishwasher, and Cashier, all of which share common job functions related to supporting food and beverage service in hospitality settings.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bussers in Tampa, FL
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is essential for Bussers working in Tampa to ensure compliance and proper financial management.
- Federal labor laws and employment regulations can be found at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For state-specific labor laws and resources, visit the Official portal of the State of Florida.
- Local ordinances and employment information specific to Tampa are available on the City of Tampa's official website.