Server Salary in Pomona, CA
Servers in Pomona, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $18.24 per hour, which translates to about $729.60 per week, $3,161.60 per month, and $37,939.20 per year.
The demand for Servers in Pomona is growing steadily at around 5% per year, indicating increasing opportunities in the local hospitality and food service industry.
How Much Does a Server Make in Pomona, CA?
The salary of a Server in Pomona varies based on experience and establishment, but here is a general breakdown of earnings at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.93 | $637.20 | $2,755.20 | $33,062.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.24 | $729.60 | $3,161.60 | $37,939.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.88 | $835.20 | $3,618.40 | $43,382.40 |
Do Servers in Pomona Earn Tips?
Yes, Servers typically earn significant tips in addition to their base salary. On average, Servers in Pomona can earn around $10 to $20 extra per hour in tips, which substantially increases their overall earnings.
Server Salary in Pomona vs. National Average
On a national level, Servers earn about $17.20 per hour, which corresponds to approximately $35,776 per year.
Compared to the national average, Servers in Pomona earn slightly more at about $18.24 per hour and $37,939.20 annually, reflecting a relatively competitive pay scale locally.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Pomona for Servers
The pay for Servers in nearby areas can be slightly higher:
- Duarte: $18.63 per hour
- Rowland Heights: $18.47 per hour
Servers in Duarte have a marginally higher average hourly rate, which may be attractive for those willing to commute.
What Influences a Server’s Salary in Pomona?
Several factors affect how much a Server can earn in Pomona:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Servers with strong guest service skills and upselling capabilities usually earn better wages and tips.
- Type of Establishment: Working in fine dining or upscale restaurants often yields higher salaries and tips compared to casual or fast-food restaurants.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts may offer higher tips and sometimes shift differentials.
- Location and Demand: Popular and busy areas with heavy foot traffic can provide more tipping opportunities.
How To Become a Server in Pomona
To start a career as a Server in Pomona, consider the following steps:
- Gain Basic Food Service Knowledge: Training in customer service and food safety can improve job prospects.
- Obtain Mandatory Certifications: The California Food Handler Card is a required certification for all food service workers. Many employers also prefer candidates with the ServSafe Certification, a widely recognized food safety training.
- Consider Hospitality Management Education: Programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Mt. San Antonio College or the Hospitality Management Program at Cal Poly Pomona provide valuable knowledge relevant to Servers.
- Develop Strong Communication Skills: Being personable and attentive helps Servers succeed and earn better tips.
Top Employers Hiring Servers in Pomona
Some of the top establishments looking to hire Servers in Pomona include:
- McKinley's Grille
- Pho Ha Vietnamese Restaurant
- American Golf
- Kellogg West Conference Center and Lodge
- Paul Martin's American Grill
Establishments That Servers in Pomona Work At
Servers in Pomona can work across various types of food service establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Offer steady work but often lower base pay; tips can vary based on customer volume.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Tend to pay more and provide higher tipping potential due to upscale clientele.
- Fast Casual and Quick-Service: Typically have lower tip earnings but provide opportunities for entry-level Servers.
- Hotels and Conference Centers: These venues may pay competitive wages and provide consistent scheduling.
The type of establishment heavily influences both the base salary and tipping opportunities, which combine to determine the overall income of a Server.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Pomona for Servers
If you are exploring similar roles within hospitality, consider these related positions that share some duties and skills with Servers.
These include Fine Dining Server, Backwaiter, and Waiter/Waitress roles that involve customer service and food delivery responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Servers in Pomona
Servers should be familiar with local and state regulations impacting wages, work hours, and taxes.
- Visit the California Department of Industrial Relations - State labor laws and regulations for comprehensive information on labor standards.
- The Internal Revenue Service website provides important federal tax guidelines relevant for Servers.
- For local ordinances and business regulations, check the City of Pomona Official Website.