Server Salary in Downey, CA
Servers in Downey, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $16.00 per hour, which translates to about $640.00 per week, $2,773.33 per month, and $33,280.00 per year.
The demand for Servers in Downey is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting positive job outlook and increasing opportunities in the hospitality and food service industry within the region.
How Much Does a Server Make in Downey, CA?
The salary of a Server in Downey can vary depending on experience and employer, but here’s a breakdown across different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.00 | $560.00 | $2,426.67 | $29,120.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.00 | $640.00 | $2,773.33 | $33,280.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
Do Servers in Downey Earn Tips?
Yes, Servers in Downey commonly earn tips which can substantially increase their overall income. On average, a Server may earn an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and shifts worked.
Server Salary in Downey vs. National Average
Nationally, Servers earn an average of about $16.00 per hour, which equals roughly $33,280.00 per year.
Servers in Downey earn approximately $16.00 per hour as well, aligning closely with the national average.
This parity reflects the competitive hospitality market and cost of living in Downey, CA.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Downey for Servers
Nearby areas offer slightly varied pay rates for Servers:
- Downtown Downey: $17.00 per hour
- Stonewood Center Area: $16.50 per hour
Servers working in Downtown Downey enjoy the highest average hourly wages in the area.
What Influences a Server’s Salary in Downey?
Several factors impact how much a Server can earn in Downey, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Servers with excellent customer service skills tend to command higher wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and fine dining establishments generally offer higher wages and better tipping potential compared to fast food or casual dining.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts might offer higher pay or increased tip opportunities compared to daytime shifts.
- Certifications: Alcohol service certifications like the TIPS certification can improve employability and pay.
How To Become a Server in Downey
Starting a career as a Server in Downey generally involves several steps:
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: All food service employees in California need the California Food Handler Card which ensures knowledge of hygiene and safety.
- Complete Responsible Alcohol Service Training: The TIPS Certification is commonly required for serving alcohol responsibly.
- Gain Relevant Education: Local programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Cerritos College or the Hospitality Management Program at Long Beach City College can provide foundational skills relevant to serving roles.
- Develop Customer Service Skills: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills distinguish great Servers.
- Apply at Various Establishments: Start with casual restaurants or cafes and progressively look for opportunities in finer dining settings for higher pay.
Top Employers Hiring Servers in Downey
Some of the notable employers recruiting Servers in Downey include:
- Olive Garden
- PIH Health
- Panda Restaurant Group
- Taco Bell
- Shake Shack
Establishments That Servers in Downey Work At
Servers in Downey can be found working at a variety of establishments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Offer steady wages and consistent customer volume with decent tipping opportunities.
- Fast Casual Chains: Typically have fixed hourly wages and less tipping, but offer high volume and faster-paced work.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Generally provide higher base wages, plus the potential for substantially higher tips due to upscale clientele.
- Cafés and Bars: Can be lucrative for servers, especially in bars with alcohol service where tips may be generous.
The type of establishment greatly affects a Server’s overall earnings potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Downey for Servers
If you’re interested in similar roles within the hospitality industry, consider the following related jobs:
These roles include Waiter/Waitress, Banquet Server, and Backwaiter, which share many duties and environments with Servers but may have differences in specialization or catering format.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Servers in Downey
Servers in Downey should be aware of state and local labor laws as well as tax obligations to ensure legal compliance and proper compensation.
- Visit the California Department of Industrial Relations for comprehensive details about California state labor laws and worker protections.
- The California Employment Development Department provides information on employment services, unemployment benefits, and tax withholdings.
- Local government resources and updates are available at the City of Downey Official Website.