Server Salary in Pasadena, CA
Servers in Pasadena, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $19.49 per hour, which translates to about $779.60 per week, $3,378.27 per month, and $40,539.20 per year.
The demand for Servers in Pasadena is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy outlook and increasing opportunities in the hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Server Make in Pasadena, CA?
The salary of a Server in Pasadena varies based on experience and establishment, but here’s a breakdown across different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $18.04 | $721.60 | $3,125.33 | $37,491.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.49 | $779.60 | $3,378.27 | $40,539.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $26.21 | $1,048.40 | $4,533.47 | $54,416.80 |
Do Servers in Pasadena Earn Tips?
Yes, Servers in Pasadena commonly earn tips in addition to their base salary. They can earn approximately $10 or more per hour in tips, significantly boosting their total earnings depending on the establishment and clientele.
Server Salary in Pasadena vs. National Average
Nationally, Servers earn on average around $17.54 per hour, totaling approximately $36,483.20 per year.
Compared to the national average, Servers in Pasadena earn slightly more, with a mid-level hourly wage of $19.49 and an annual salary of about $40,539.20. This difference reflects the higher cost of living and hospitality demand in Pasadena.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Pasadena for Servers
Nearby areas offer competitive wages for Servers, including:
- Old Pasadena: $20.50 per hour
- South Lake Avenue: $21.00 per hour
Servers working in South Lake Avenue tend to earn the highest wages in the area, with opportunities for better tips and higher base pay than the surrounding regions.
What Influences a Server’s Salary in Pasadena?
A Server’s salary in Pasadena can be affected by several factors:
- Experience and Skills: More experienced Servers with excellent customer service and multitasking skills often command higher wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or high-end venues generally offers higher pay and more tips compared to casual dining.
- Shift and Hours: Evening, weekend, or holiday shifts may include higher pay rates or increased tips.
- Location: Serving in high-traffic tourist or business districts like Old Pasadena can lead to higher earnings.
- Certification: Certifications such as alcohol service permits can result in better job prospects and pay scales.
How To Become a Server in Pasadena
Becoming a Server in Pasadena involves several practical steps to improve employability and earning potential:
- Gain Relevant Experience: Entry-level positions or internships in food service build a foundation of skills.
- Training Programs: While formal education is not always required, culinary or hospitality programs like the Pasadena City College Culinary Arts Program or Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts offer valuable training and credentials.
- Obtain Certifications: The California Food Handler Card is mandatory for food service employees, and the ServSafe Certification provides recognized food safety credentials, which help in securing positions.
- Develop Soft Skills: Strong communication, patience, and customer service skills are highly valued.
Top Employers Hiring Servers in Pasadena
Some key employers actively recruiting Servers in Pasadena include:
- Mendocino Farms
- Panda Restaurant Group
- Shake Shack
Establishments That Servers in Pasadena Work At
Servers in Pasadena typically find employment in various types of establishments, each with unique pay structures:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These tend to pay a base wage with tip opportunities, creating moderate earning potential.
- Fast Casual: Generally offers slightly lower tips but may include more predictable hours and income.
- Fine Dining: Servers can earn greater wages and significantly higher tips in upscale environments.
- Catering and Banquets: Often pay hourly with potential bonuses based on event size.
The diversity in workplace settings means that earning potential can vary greatly, with fine dining and high-traffic casual spots offering the highest overall compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Pasadena for Servers
If you are exploring hospitality roles related to Server, here are a few similar careers that might interest you:
These include Banquet Server, Waiter/Waitress, and Bartender positions, all of which involve customer interaction and food service skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Servers in Pasadena
Servers should be familiar with the labor laws and tax requirements applicable in California to ensure compliance and proper compensation.
- For detailed information on state labor laws and regulations, visit the California Department of Industrial Relations.
- For federal tax guidelines and requirements, you can refer to the Internal Revenue Service.