Server Salary in San Mateo, CA
Servers in San Mateo, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $19.68 per hour, which translates to about $787.20 per week, $3,411.20 per month, and $40,934.40 per year.
The demand for Servers in San Mateo is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the hospitality sector throughout the region.
How Much Does a Server Make in San Mateo, CA?
Server salaries in San Mateo vary by experience level and establishment type. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings for different experience brackets.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $17.95 | $718.00 | $3,112.67 | $37,344.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.68 | $787.20 | $3,411.20 | $40,934.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $34.13 | $1,365.20 | $5,889.87 | $70,992.40 |
Do Servers in San Mateo Earn Tips?
Yes, Servers in San Mateo typically earn tips in addition to their base salary. Tips can significantly increase overall earnings, often adding an extra $10 or more per hour depending on the establishment and clientele. This makes the role potentially lucrative for skilled and attentive Servers.
Server Salary in San Mateo vs. National Average
Nationally, Servers earn on average about $17.57 per hour, which amounts to roughly $36,545.60 yearly.
Compared to the national average, Servers in San Mateo make a higher hourly wage rounding to nearly $19.68 per hour and an annual salary of $40,934.40. This reflects local market demands and the higher cost of living in California.
Highest-Paying Areas Near San Mateo for Servers
Looking at nearby neighborhoods, here are some of the highest paying areas for Servers:
- Downtown San Mateo: $20.50 per hour
- Hillsdale: $19.80 per hour
Servers working in Downtown San Mateo tend to earn a bit more than those in Hillsdale, likely due to the higher concentration of upscale dining establishments.
What Influences a Server’s Salary in San Mateo?
Multiple factors influence how much a Server can make in San Mateo, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Servers who provide great customer service generally receive higher tips and better base pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and fine dining venues usually pay more than casual or fast-casual establishments.
- Shift Timing: Working evenings, weekends or holidays could offer premium pay or higher tipping potential.
- Customer Volume and Location: Busier restaurants in popular neighborhoods tend to yield higher earnings.
- Certifications: Food handler certifications and knowledge of local health regulations can improve employability and wages.
How To Become a Server in San Mateo
Starting a career as a Server in San Mateo can be straightforward but benefits from specific preparation:
- Gain Hospitality Training: Programs like San Mateo Adult School - Hospitality and Culinary Arts Program and College of San Mateo - Culinary Arts Program provide valuable skills.
- Obtain Required Certifications: The California Food Handler Card is mandatory. Additionally, many employers value the ServSafe Certification for food safety knowledge.
- Develop Customer Service Skills: Being personable and efficient is crucial to success as a Server.
- Start Entry-Level: Many Servers begin in casual venues before moving into higher-paying restaurants.
Top Employers Hiring Servers in San Mateo
Popular local employers looking for experienced Servers include:
- California Pizza Kitchen
- Gyu-Kaku
- YAYOI
- Peninsula Regent
Establishments That Servers in San Mateo Work At
Servers in San Mateo are employed at various types of dining establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These often provide steady shifts but generally have lower base pay and tips.
- Fast Casual: Positions here may have faster service pace but tipping is usually lower.
- Fine Dining: Higher expectations but greater earning potential through tips and higher hourly wages.
- Hotels and Resorts: These venues provide opportunities for consistent work and sometimes benefits with competitive wages.
The type of establishment greatly impacts the Server’s earning potential through both wage rates and tipping patterns.
Related Hospitality Jobs in San Mateo for Servers
Those interested in similar careers to Server might explore related positions that offer different responsibilities and salary potential.
These related roles include Waiter/Waitress, Fine Dining Server, and Bartender, which require similar customer service skills and may offer different compensation packages.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Servers in San Mateo
Servers in San Mateo should be aware of the following important resources for labor laws and tax regulations:
- California state labor laws can be found at the California Department of Industrial Relations, which provides information on minimum wage, overtime, and worker rights.
- Federal tax information and guidelines are available at the Internal Revenue Service website.