Server Salary in Riverside, CA
Servers in Riverside, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $18.00 per hour, which translates to about $720.00 per week, $3,120.00 per month, and $37,440.00 per year.
The demand for Servers in Riverside is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the food service and hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Server Make in Riverside, CA?
The salary of a Server in Riverside can vary depending on experience and the type of establishment. Below is a breakdown of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.09 | $883.60 | $3,808.93 | $45,840.80 |
Do Servers in Riverside Earn Tips?
Servers typically earn tips in addition to their base salary. In Riverside, a Server can expect to earn an extra $10 or more per hour in tips, which can significantly increase their overall earnings depending on the establishment and shift.
Server Salary in Riverside vs. National Average
Nationally, Servers earn on average around $18.00 per hour, equating to approximately $37,440.00 annually.
Servers in Riverside earn roughly at the national average level, with hourly and annual compensation closely aligned due to similar cost-of-living and market demands in the area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Riverside for Servers
When considering nearby areas, the average hourly pay for Servers is as follows:
- Downtown Riverside: $19.50 per hour
- Mission Grove: $20.00 per hour
Servers working in Mission Grove tend to earn slightly more than those in Downtown Riverside, reflecting differences in clientele and establishment types.
What Influences a Server’s Salary in Riverside?
Many factors can influence the salary of a Server in Riverside, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Servers with excellent customer service skills often command higher wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining and upscale restaurants typically offer higher base pay and better tip potential than casual dining or fast-food outlets.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts may yield higher tips and sometimes shift differentials.
- Location: Servers working in busier or higher-income areas can expect better earnings.
- Certifications and Training: Food safety and customer service certifications might improve employability and compensation.
How To Become a Server in Riverside
Starting a career as a Server in Riverside involves a few important steps:
- Complete Food Safety Training: Earning a California Food Handler Card is mandatory for all food service employees in California.
- Obtain ServSafe Certification: This nationally recognized certification enhances your understanding of best practices in food safety and is often required by employers.
- Gain Experience: Many Servers start with entry-level roles in casual or fast-casual restaurants to build relevant skills.
- Consider Hospitality Programs: Riverside City College Culinary Arts Program and California State University, San Bernardino Hospitality Management Program offer relevant training and education for aspiring Servers.
Top Employers Hiring Servers in Riverside
Prominent employers in Riverside looking to hire Servers include:
- Panda Restaurant Group
- Momo Sushi
- Denny's
- Olive Garden
- The Cheesecake Factory
Establishments That Servers in Riverside Work At
Servers in Riverside typically find employment at a diverse range of establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These often serve as entry points with steady hours, but base pay and tips vary greatly.
- Fast Casual Establishments: Typically offer faster-paced service with generally lower base pay but consistent customer volume.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Usually provide higher base salaries and substantially more in tips due to upscale clientele.
- Hotels and Resorts: Some Servers find opportunities here with potentially better benefits and salary packages.
The type of establishment greatly impacts the salary potential and tip income, with upscale venues offering the best overall earnings.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Riverside for Servers
Servers often consider related roles within the hospitality industry that utilize similar skills and offer alternative career paths.
These include Fine Dining Server, Backwaiter, and Waiter/Waitress—roles that involve customer interaction, order taking, and ensuring guest satisfaction.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Servers in Riverside
Servers in Riverside should be familiar with relevant labor laws and tax considerations to safeguard their rights and manage finances properly.
- Visit the California Department of Industrial Relations for state labor laws and regulations.
- Consult the California Employment Development Department for employment services and tax information.
- Check the City of Riverside Official Website for local government resources and updates.