Server Salary in Fresno, CA
Servers in Fresno, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $18.05 per hour, which translates to about $722.00 per week, $3,128.67 per month, and $37,544.00 per year.
The demand for Servers in Fresno is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy outlook for employment opportunities in the food service industry within the region.
How Much Does a Server Make in Fresno, CA?
The salary of a Server in Fresno varies by experience and employer type. Here's an overview of earnings at different experience 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) | $18.05 | $722.00 | $3,128.67 | $37,544.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $25.52 | $1,020.80 | $4,424.53 | $53,081.60 |
Do Servers in Fresno Earn Tips?
Servers typically earn tips which can substantially supplement their base wages. In Fresno, Servers often make an additional about $10 per hour in tips, boosting their overall earnings significantly depending on the establishment and clientele.
Server Salary in Fresno vs. National Average
Nationally, Servers earn an average of around $18.05 per hour, which matches exactly the mid-level average hourly wage in Fresno.
The yearly salary nationally averages to approximately $37,544, the same as the Fresno average, indicating that Servers in this city are compensated in line with the national figures.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Fresno for Servers
A look at nearby neighborhoods shows some variation in pay for Servers:
- North Fresno: $19.00 per hour
- Woodward Park: $18.50 per hour
Servers working in North Fresno may enjoy slightly higher wages compared to other areas, reflecting local demand and establishment type.
What Influences a Server’s Salary in Fresno?
Several factors can influence the salary of a Server in Fresno:
- Experience and Skill Level: Experienced Servers with strong customer service skills generally command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining venues or upscale restaurants often pay more than casual or fast food locations.
- Geographic Location: Different neighborhoods or districts can offer varying pay due to economic conditions or demand.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts might offer higher rates or tips due to busier business.
- Tips and Service Quality: High-quality service can lead to better tips, effectively increasing total earnings.
How To Become a Server in Fresno
Starting a career as a Server in Fresno involves some steps to build relevant skills and certifications.
- Gain Basic Food Service Training: Programs like Fresno City College Culinary Arts Program and Institute of Technology Culinary Arts Program offer foundational knowledge useful for Servers.
- Obtain Mandatory Certifications: Holding a California Food Handler Card is required for all food service employees; additionally, ServSafe Certification is highly regarded by employers for demonstrating food safety knowledge.
- Develop Customer Service Skills: Strong interpersonal skills can make a significant difference in job performance and earnings.
- Seek Entry-Level Positions: Many Servers start in casual dining or fast food to gain experience before moving to higher-end establishments.
Top Employers Hiring Servers in Fresno
Some of the prominent employers in Fresno actively hiring Servers include:
- Red Robin
- Panda Restaurant Group
- Chick-fil-A Restaurants
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Denny's
Establishments That Servers in Fresno Work At
Servers in Fresno can find jobs at various types of establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Usually pay moderate hourly wages with opportunities to earn tips.
- Fast Casual and Fast Food: Tend to offer lower base wages but provide steady work hours.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Restaurants: Often provide higher base pay and substantial tips, reflecting the more demanding service level.
- Bars and Cafés: May offer variable wages with heavy tipping potential during peak hours.
The kind of establishment significantly affects overall earnings and career growth opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Fresno for Servers
If you are considering related roles in the hospitality sector, several positions share similar skills and work environments.
These include Backwaiter, Bartender, and Fine Dining Server, each offering varied responsibilities and possible salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Servers in Fresno
Servers should be knowledgeable about applicable labor laws and tax requirements to protect their rights and ensure compliance.
- Check the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for nationwide standards.
- California-specific labor laws and workplace regulations can be found at the California Department of Industrial Relations.
- Local rules and resources relevant to Fresno are available on the City of Fresno official website.