Server Salary in Sacramento, CA
Servers in Sacramento, CA in 2025 earn an average of $18.73 per hour, which amounts to about $749.20 per week, $3,246.53 per month, and $38,958.40 per year.
The job outlook for Servers is currently growing moderately at about 1% per year, indicating a steady demand within the food service industry in Sacramento.
How Much Does a Server Make in Sacramento, CA?
The salary of a Server in Sacramento varies with experience and skill level. Here's an overview of typical earnings at different stages of a Server’s career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.00 | $640.00 | $2,773.33 | $33,280.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.73 | $749.20 | $3,246.53 | $38,958.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $27.99 | $1,119.60 | $4,837.80 | $53,779.20 |
Do Servers in Sacramento Earn Tips?
Yes, Servers typically earn tips in addition to their base hourly wage. On average, a Server in Sacramento can expect to earn an extra $10 per hour in tips, which significantly boosts their overall income.
Server Salary in Sacramento vs. National Average
Nationally, Servers earn about $17.50 per hour on average, which equals approximately $36,400 per year.
Compared to the national average, Servers in Sacramento earn a higher hourly wage of about $18.73 per hour and nearly $39,000 annually. This difference may reflect the local cost of living and demand for quality service staff in the Sacramento market.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Sacramento for Servers
When looking at specific neighborhoods around Sacramento, the hourly pay for Servers can be slightly higher:
- Downtown Sacramento: $19.50 per hour
- Midtown Sacramento: $19.00 per hour
Servers working in Downtown Sacramento generally enjoy the highest wages, likely due to the concentration of upscale dining establishments and higher customer volumes there.
What Influences a Server’s Salary in Sacramento?
The salary of a Server in Sacramento is affected by several key factors:
- Experience: More experienced Servers usually command higher wages and better tip potential.
- Skills and Certifications: Servers with training in customer service, wine knowledge, or alcohol service may earn more.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants typically pay better wages and generate higher tips compared to casual or fast casual venues.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts may offer shift differentials or increased tips.
- Location: Being employed in premium or busy districts of Sacramento can elevate earnings.
How To Become a Server in Sacramento
To start a career as a Server in Sacramento, consider these steps:
- Gain Basic Food Service Knowledge: Taking courses at American River College Culinary Arts Program can provide a solid foundation in culinary and service skills.
- Acquire Hospitality Management Insight: Sacramento City College Hospitality Management Program offers relevant education on customer service and restaurant operations.
- Obtain Required Certifications: The California Food Handler Card is mandatory for all food service workers to ensure compliance with safety standards.
- Optional Alcohol Service Training: Getting certified in TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) helps servers responsibly manage alcohol service, improving employability.
- Develop Communication and Customer Service Skills: These are essential for excelling in the Server role and maximizing tips.
Top Employers Hiring Servers in Sacramento
Several notable employers in Sacramento actively seek experienced and reliable Servers, including:
- The Kitchen Restaurant
- Fieldwork Brewing
- Mendocino Farms
- IKEA
- Panda Restaurant Group
Establishments That Servers in Sacramento Work At
Servers in Sacramento typically find employment in a variety of establishments, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Generally provide steady shifts but moderate wages and tips.
- Fast Casual Establishments: These often offer lower hourly wages but higher turnover and the chance for steady tips.
- Fine Dining Venues: Usually pay higher wages and provide the opportunity for larger tips due to upscale clientele.
- Breweries and Bars: Can be busy environments where experienced Servers may earn substantial tips.
- Cafés and Bistros: Typically pay moderate wages and rely on repeat customer service experience.
The type and prestige of the establishment can significantly influence overall compensation, including base pay and tip earnings.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Sacramento for Servers
If you're interested in roles related to Server, you may consider these similar careers:
These include Bartender, Fine Dining Server, and Backwaiter positions, which share overlapping skills with Server roles and may offer different wage structures.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Servers in Sacramento
Servers working in Sacramento should be aware of labor laws and tax regulations that affect their employment conditions and earnings.
- For California state labor laws and workplace regulations, visit the California Department of Industrial Relations.
- The California Employment Development Department provides resources on state employment services and tax information.
- Federal labor laws and guidance are available from the U.S. Department of Labor.