Server Salary in Long Beach, CA
Servers in Long Beach, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $19.65 per hour, which translates to about $786.00 per week, $3,406.00 per month, and $40,872.00 per year.
The demand for Servers in Long Beach is growing modestly at about 1% per year, indicating a stable job market with steady opportunities for employment in the restaurant and hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Server Make in Long Beach, CA?
The salary of a Server in Long Beach can vary depending on experience, type of establishment, and other factors. Here's a breakdown of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $18.22 | $728.80 | $3,150.13 | $37,810.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.47 | $778.80 | $3,370.40 | $40,425.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $25.85 | $1,034.00 | $4,466.53 | $53,768.00 |
Do Servers in Long Beach Earn Tips?
Yes, Servers in Long Beach typically earn an extra $10 to $15 per hour in tips on average, which can significantly increase their total earnings, especially in busy or upscale dining establishments.
Server Salary in Long Beach vs. National Average
Nationally, Servers earn an average of around $17.56 per hour, translating to about $36,524.80 per year.
Compared to the national average, Servers in Long Beach earn higher wages, at about $19.65 per hour and $40,872.00 annually, reflecting the cost of living and local demand in California.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Long Beach for Servers
When considering nearby areas, Server salaries can vary:
- Downtown: $20.50 per hour
- Belmont Shore: $21.00 per hour
Servers working in Belmont Shore generally earn the highest wages, likely due to the area's upscale dining venues and higher customer volume.
What Influences a Server’s Salary in Long Beach?
Several factors can influence the salary of a Server in Long Beach:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Servers or those skilled in fine dining can command higher wages and tips.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and hotels tend to pay more than casual dining or fast-food chains.
- Shift and Hours Worked: Peak shift hours often provide greater tip opportunities and sometimes higher base hourly rates.
- Customer Volume and Location: Servers in busy or tourist-heavy areas usually have better earning potential.
- Certifications and Training: Holding certifications like the California Food Handler Card or TIPS Certification can enhance employability and pay.
How To Become a Server in Long Beach
To start a career as a Server in Long Beach, consider these steps:
- Get Food Safety Certification: Obtaining the California Food Handler Card is mandatory for food service workers in California.
- Obtain Alcohol Service Certification: The TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification teaches responsible alcohol service, which is highly valued in restaurants serving alcoholic beverages.
- Gain Experience: Many Servers start in casual dining or fast-food locations to build experience.
- Enhance Skills: Develop strong customer service and multitasking abilities to increase job opportunities.
- Consider Hospitality or Culinary Programs: Institutions like Long Beach City College Culinary Arts Program and California State University, Long Beach Hospitality Management Program offer valuable education focused on customer service and food industry knowledge.
Top Employers Hiring Servers in Long Beach
Some of the prominent employers looking for Servers in Long Beach include:
- Fairmont Hotels & Resorts
- Marriott International
- Mendocino Farms
- 555 East
- Yard House
Establishments That Servers in Long Beach Work At
Servers in Long Beach typically find employment in a variety of establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Moderate base pay with steady tips, often entry-level opportunities.
- Fast Casual Establishments: Usually offer hourly wages with less tipping, but more flexible shifts.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Higher base pay and substantial tips due to upscale clientele.
- Hotel and Resort Restaurants: Often provide benefits and stable schedules with good tip potential.
The choice of establishment greatly affects salary; fine dining and hotel settings usually pay more than casual or fast casual spots.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Long Beach for Servers
If you're exploring careers related to Serving, consider these similar roles that share skills and responsibilities:
These include Fine Dining Server, Backwaiter, and Waiter/Waitress positions, each with unique work environments and pay scales.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Servers in Long Beach
Servers should be aware of local and state labor regulations and tax obligations to protect their rights and finances.
- Visit the California Department of Industrial Relations - State labor laws and regulations for comprehensive guidelines.
- For employment services and tax information, check the California Employment Development Department.
- Learn about local regulations and resources on the City of Long Beach Official Website.