Server Salary in Santa Clarita, CA
Servers in Santa Clarita, 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 Santa Clarita is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook and an expanding market for hospitality and dining services in this region.
How Much Does a Server Make in Santa Clarita, CA?
The salary of a Server in Santa Clarita varies by experience and skill level. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings based on experience tiers.
| 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) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.79 | $831.60 | $3,582.13 | $41,923.20 |
Do Servers in Santa Clarita Earn Tips?
Yes, Servers in Santa Clarita commonly earn tips in addition to their base salary. They can make an extra $10 or more per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and clientele. Tips significantly boost overall earnings.
Server Salary in Santa Clarita vs. National Average
Nationally, Servers earn approximately $18.00 per hour, or about $37,440.00 per year.
Servers in Santa Clarita earn roughly in line with this national average, both hourly and annually, with similar pay scales reflecting the cost of living and market demand in the area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Santa Clarita for Servers
Nearby areas with competitive pay for Servers include:
- Valencia: $18.00 per hour
- Newhall: $17.50 per hour
Valencia tops nearby locations in pay, making it a favorable spot for Servers seeking higher income within the region.
What Influences a Server’s Salary in Santa Clarita?
Several factors can impact how much a Server makes in Santa Clarita, including:
- Experience and Tenure: More experienced Servers typically command higher hourly wages and have better access to premium shifts.
- Skills and Customer Service Quality: Strong communication, upselling ability, and positive guest interactions raise earning potential, especially with tips.
- Type of Establishment: Servers working in fine dining or upscale restaurants tend to make more than those in casual or fast food settings.
- Shift Timing and Hours: Evening, weekend, or holiday shifts often come with increased tipping opportunities.
- Local Economy and Competition: Areas with higher demand for dining and tourism may offer better pay and tip prospects.
How To Become a Server in Santa Clarita
Starting a career as a Server in Santa Clarita involves a few important steps:
- Complete Required Food Safety Training: Obtaining the California Food Handler Card is mandatory for all food service workers, ensuring knowledge of safe food handling practices.
- Gain Practical Experience: Many Servers start with entry-level roles to build skills and customer service experience.
- Consider Culinary or Hospitality Training: Programs like the College of the Canyons Culinary Arts Program offer foundational food service and culinary knowledge that can help Servers excel.
- Develop Communication and Multitasking Skills: These are critical for managing customer interactions and fast-paced work environments.
Top Employers Hiring Servers in Santa Clarita
Some of the notable employers hiring Servers in the Santa Clarita area are:
- Mendocino Farms
- Panda Restaurant Group
- Chick-fil-A Restaurants
Establishments That Servers in Santa Clarita Work At
Servers in Santa Clarita typically find employment opportunities in a variety of establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These venues offer steady shifts with moderate tipping opportunities.
- Fast Casual Chains: Pay tends to be on the lower side, but tips and high volume can supplement earnings.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Premium pay and higher tips make these some of the most lucrative places for Servers.
- Hotels and Resort Restaurants: Often provide stable hours and consistent staffing needs, with moderate pay and tips.
The type of establishment substantially affects the salary and tipping potential for Servers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Santa Clarita for Servers
If you are interested in careers similar to that of a Server, you may consider related roles that offer different work experiences and pay scales.
These include Fine Dining Server, Backwaiter, and Waiter/Waitress positions, offering various paths within the hospitality sector.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Servers in Santa Clarita
Servers should stay informed about relevant labor laws and tax requirements to maintain fair work conditions and proper earnings management.
- For federal labor laws and regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- California state-specific labor information is available at the California Department of Industrial Relations website.