Server Salary in Chico, CA
Servers in Chico, CA, in 2026, earn approximately $18.00 per hour, which translates to about $720.00 per week, $3,120.00 per month, and $37,440.00 per year.
The demand for Servers in Chico is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities and career growth within the local hospitality and dining industry.
How Much Does a Server Make in Chico, CA?
The salary of a Server in Chico varies based on experience and skill, with entry-level employees earning less and top earners benefitting from tips and experience.
| 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) | $17.23 | $689.20 | $2,965.87 | $35,870.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.80 | $792.00 | $3,432.00 | $41,184.00 |
Do Servers in Chico Earn Tips?
Yes, Servers typically receive tips as a significant portion of their income. In Chico, Servers can earn an additional estimated $10 per hour in tips, substantially increasing their overall earnings and incentivizing excellent customer service.
Server Salary in Chico vs. National Average
Nationally, Servers earn an average of around $18.00 per hour, translating to about $37,440.00 per year.
Servers in Chico make roughly the same hourly wage as the national average, at $18.00 per hour and $37,440.00 annually, reflecting competitive pay within the region’s hospitality industry.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Chico for Servers
Nearby areas offer the following hourly wages for Servers:
- Downtown Chico: $18.50 per hour
- North Chico: $17.80 per hour
Servers working in Downtown Chico can expect slightly higher pay compared to other areas, which can be attributed to busier dining scenes and higher demand for service quality.
What Influences a Server’s Salary in Chico?
Several factors influence how much a Server can earn in Chico:
- Experience and Tenure: More experienced Servers tend to earn higher wages along with better tips due to their skills and customer rapport.
- Skill Level: Expertise in product knowledge, upselling, and customer service directly affect earning potential.
- Establishment Type: Fine dining locations typically offer higher base pay and potentially better tips than fast casual or family-style restaurants.
- Shift and Hours: Night and weekend shifts may offer shift differentials and increased tips depending on customer traffic.
- Local Demand: Popular dining locations and tourism can boost overall income for Servers.
How To Become a Server in Chico
Starting a career as a Server in Chico involves several important steps:
- Develop Customer Service Skills: Strong communication and a friendly demeanor are essential for success as a Server.
- Consider Culinary or Hospitality Education: Programs such as Butte College Culinary Arts Program and Chico State University Hospitality Management Program can provide valuable knowledge.
- Acquire Required Certifications: In California, earning the California Responsible Beverage Service (RBS) Certification is mandatory for servers serving alcohol.
- Food Safety Training: Obtaining a ServSafe Food Handler Certification enhances food handling knowledge and employability.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level positions in restaurants or food service operations allow you to develop necessary skills.
Top Employers Hiring Servers in Chico
Several prominent employers in Chico are actively seeking Servers, including:
- Olive Garden
- Outback Steakhouse
- Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.
- Denny's
- Buffalo Wild Wings
Establishments That Servers in Chico Work At
Servers in Chico find employment in a variety of dining establishments, each impacting salary differently:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These establishments typically pay moderate wages, with steady tips depending on customer volume.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Often pay lower base wages but can offer a faster-paced work environment with consistent shifts.
- Fine Dining Venues: Usually provide higher base pay and significant tip potential due to upscale clientele.
- Bars and Breweries: Servers here may rely more heavily on tips, with varying wages depending on the establishment's popularity.
The type of establishment impacts earning potential through base pay, tip averages, and work environment.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Chico for Servers
Individuals interested in similar or related hospitality roles to Server might consider the following career options:
These include Waiter/Waitress, Banquet Server, and Bartender, all involving service and customer interaction within the hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Servers in Chico
Servers working in Chico should be aware of important labor regulations and tax obligations at the federal, state, and local levels.
- The Federal website for labor laws and regulations provides comprehensive information on minimum wage, overtime rules, and workers' rights.
- The California Department of Industrial Relations offers state-specific labor laws, workplace safety standards, and enforcement resources.
- The Butte County official website serves as a resource for local regulations, employment standards, and community support services.