Pastry Chef Salary in Sacramento, CA
Pastry Chefs in Sacramento, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $33.00 per hour, which translates to about $1,320.00 per week, $5,720.00 per month, and $68,640.00 per year.
The demand for Pastry Chefs in Sacramento is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting an increasingly vibrant culinary scene with expanding opportunities for skilled pastry professionals.
How Much Does a Pastry Chef Make in Sacramento, CA?
The salary of a Pastry Chef in Sacramento varies based on experience and skill, with different pay scales across entry, mid, and top-level professionals.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $28.00 | $1,120.00 | $4,853.33 | $58,240.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $33.00 | $1,320.00 | $5,720.00 | $68,640.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $37.00 | $1,480.00 | $6,426.67 | $77,960.00 |
Do Pastry Chefs in Sacramento Earn Tips?
Generally, Pastry Chefs do not earn tips as their role is primarily in kitchen preparation rather than direct customer interaction. Their income is mostly salary-based, although some establishments might offer occasional bonuses.
Pastry Chef Salary in Sacramento vs. National Average
Nationally, Pastry Chefs earn about $28.00 per hour, translating to approximately $58,240.00 per year.
Pastry Chefs in Sacramento earn a higher average wage at $33.00 per hour and $68,640.00 annually, likely due to local industry demand and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Sacramento for Pastry Chefs
Nearby regions offer competitive pay for Pastry Chefs, with slight variations:
- Downtown Sacramento: $35.00 per hour
- Midtown Sacramento: $34.00 per hour
Working in Downtown Sacramento generally provides the highest salary opportunities for Pastry Chefs in the area.
What Influences a Pastry Chef’s Salary in Sacramento?
Several factors can affect a Pastry Chef's salary in Sacramento:
- Experience and Skill Level: Advanced skills in pastry techniques and years of experience can lead to higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale hotels, fine dining restaurants, and specialty bakeries typically pay more than casual or fast-casual venues.
- Certifications and Education: Holding credentials like Certified Pastry Culinarian (CPC) or formal culinary training can boost earning potential.
- Work Hours and Shift Differentials: Working evenings, weekends, or holidays may offer added compensation.
- Local Market Demand: Economic growth in Sacramento and expanding culinary businesses drive competitive salaries.
How To Become a Pastry Chef in Sacramento
Starting a career as a Pastry Chef involves several key steps:
- Complete Culinary Training: Consider programs such as the American River College Culinary Arts Program or Sacramento City College Culinary Arts Program, which offer specialized pastry and baking courses.
- Gain Food Safety Certification: Obtaining a ServSafe Food Handler Certification is often required before working in professional kitchens.
- Earn Pastry-Specific Credentials: The Certified Pastry Culinarian (CPC) certification, provided by the American Culinary Federation, validates expertise in pastry arts.
- Build Experience: Work as a pastry assistant or cook to develop practical skills and progress to the Pastry Chef role.
Top Employers Hiring Pastry Chefs in Sacramento
Some notable employers actively looking for skilled Pastry Chefs in Sacramento include:
- The Firehouse Restaurant
- Ella Dining Room and Bar
- Mulvaney's B&L
Establishments That Pastry Chefs in Sacramento Work At
Pastry Chefs in Sacramento can find opportunities in various types of establishments such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Typically offer the highest salaries due to the demand for intricate and artistic pastry creations.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often provide consistent work and competitive pay, especially in luxury properties.
- Cafes and Specialty Bakeries: Can offer creative environments but with varied pay scales based on scale and clientele.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Eateries: Usually pay less but may offer more entry-level positions to build experience.
The type and prestige of the establishment directly impact the earning potential and career growth prospects.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Sacramento for Pastry Chefs
If you are exploring similar roles to Pastry Chef, consider these related positions that share some culinary and hospitality skills:
Positions such as Pastry Cook, Baker, and Chef provide alternative career paths within the culinary industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Pastry Chefs in Sacramento
Pastry Chefs in Sacramento must comply with state and local labor laws as well as tax regulations to ensure fair and lawful employment:
- Information on California state labor laws and worker rights can be found at the California Department of Industrial Relations.
- For employment services, benefits, and state tax information visit the California Employment Development Department.
- Additional local government resources and regulations are available on the Sacramento County Official Website.