Server Salary in Garden-Grove, CA
Servers in Garden-Grove, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $18.93 per hour, which translates to about $757.20 per week, $3,281.20 per month, and $39,374.40 per year.
The demand for Servers in Garden-Grove is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating promising job growth and opportunities in the hospitality and food service industry in this region.
How Much Does a Server Make in Garden-Grove, CA?
The salary of a Server in Garden-Grove varies based on experience, establishment, and skills. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings by experience level:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.50 | $660.00 | $2,860.00 | $34,320.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.93 | $757.20 | $3,281.20 | $39,374.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.22 | $888.80 | $3,842.67 | $46,217.60 |
Do Servers in Garden-Grove Earn Tips?
Yes, Servers in Garden-Grove can earn an extra $10 to $20 per hour in tips depending on the establishment and customer volume. Tips can significantly boost overall earnings for Servers, often surpassing their base hourly wage.
Server Salary in Garden-Grove vs. National Average
Nationally, Servers earn an average of around $17.50 per hour, which amounts to approximately $36,400 per year.
Servers in Garden-Grove earn slightly more, with an average hourly wage of $18.93 and about $39,374.40 annually. This difference may be influenced by the regional cost of living and local demand for hospitality workers.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Garden-Grove for Servers
Nearby areas offer varying salary opportunities for Servers:
- Anaheim: $20.17 per hour
- Santa Barbara: $20.63 per hour
Servers seeking higher pay might consider commuting to these cities where compensation tends to be above the average in Garden-Grove.
What Influences a Server’s Salary in Garden-Grove?
Experience plays a key role; Servers with several years on the job usually command higher wages.
Skills such as upselling, multi-tasking, and knowledge of food and beverages can increase pay opportunities.
The type of establishment matters: fine dining restaurants tend to offer better wages and higher tips than fast casual or quick-service venues.
Another factor is shift timing. Evening and weekend shifts often come with shift differentials enhancing overall earnings.
Finally, local economic conditions and competition for hospitality staff in Garden-Grove influence salaries.
How To Become a Server in Garden-Grove
Embarking on a career as a Server in Garden-Grove can be accelerated by a few important steps.
- Obtain required certifications like the California Food Handler Card to comply with safety regulations.
- Consider specialized training such as the TIPS Certification, which prepares Servers for responsible alcohol service.
- Enrolling in hospitality or culinary programs such as the Orange Coast College Culinary Arts Program or the Santa Ana College Hospitality Management Program can provide useful skills and credentials.
- Gain practical experience by working in local restaurants or cafes to build expertise and reputability.
Top Employers Hiring Servers in Garden-Grove
Several prominent employers actively look for Servers in Garden-Grove, including:
- Outback Steakhouse
- Brookdale Senior Living
- Red Robin
Establishments That Servers in Garden-Grove Work At
Servers in Garden-Grove work in various settings, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer stable employment and moderate pay with tipping opportunities.
- Fast Casual Establishments: Usually provide quicker service with somewhat lower salaries but steady tips.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Frequently provide the highest earning potential due to higher base wages and substantial tips.
- Hotels and Resorts: May also employ Servers offering unique benefits and potentially higher pay.
The type of establishment significantly affects the Server’s income, mainly through variations in base pay and tips.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Garden-Grove for Servers
If you're interested in roles related to Server, consider these similar hospitality careers that may offer alternative pathways or advancement opportunities:
Labor Laws and Taxes for Servers in Garden-Grove
Servers in Garden-Grove must be familiar with state labor laws and federal tax requirements to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- The California Department of Industrial Relations provides comprehensive information on wage laws, working hours, and workplace safety.
- For federal tax information and employer guidelines, the Internal Revenue Service website is the authoritative resource.