Server Salary in Ventura, CA
Servers in Ventura, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $18.27 per hour, which translates to about $730.80 per week, $3,166.80 per month, and $38,001.60 per year.
The demand for Servers in Ventura is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook with increasing opportunities in the hospitality sector locally.
How Much Does a Server Make in Ventura, CA?
The salary of a Server in Ventura varies by experience and establishment. Below is an overview by experience level, showing typical hourly, weekly, monthly, and yearly pay.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.27 | $730.80 | $3,166.80 | $38,001.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.02 | $920.80 | $3,969.07 | $47,801.60 |
Do Servers in Ventura Earn Tips?
Yes, Servers commonly earn a significant portion of their income through tips. On average, they can make approximately $10 or more per hour in tips, which greatly enhances their overall earnings beyond base wages.
Server Salary in Ventura vs. National Average
Nationally, Servers earn about $17.25 per hour and approximately $35,880 per year.
Compared to this, Servers in Ventura make slightly more at around $18.27 per hour and $38,001.60 annually. This may reflect the local cost of living and demand for hospitality workers in the area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Ventura for Servers
Nearby areas offer varying pay for Servers:
- Downtown Ventura: $20.00 per hour
- Ventura Beach: $21.00 per hour
Servers working closer to beachfront or central commercial locations tend to receive higher pay rates, likely due to the busier establishments and tourist demand.
What Influences a Server’s Salary in Ventura?
Several factors can impact how much a Server earns in Ventura. Key influences include:
- Experience and Skills: More experienced Servers with excellent customer service and upselling abilities tend to earn higher wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or busy tourist areas often results in higher pay compared to casual or fast-food venues.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts may come with premium pay or larger tip pools.
- Local Demand: The hospitality market conditions and seasonal fluctuations in Ventura can affect salary levels.
- Certifications: Servers with alcohol service certifications may gain opportunities in establishments serving alcohol with potentially higher pay.
How To Become a Server in Ventura
To start a career as a Server in Ventura, consider these steps:
- Gain Food Handler Certification: Obtaining the mandatory California Food Handler Card is essential for all food service workers in the state.
- Complete Local Culinary or Hospitality Training: Programs like the Ventura College Culinary Arts Program provide helpful foundational skills.
- Obtain TIPS Certification: Responsible alcohol service certification can be a valuable asset for Servers working in venues serving alcohol.
- Develop Customer Service Skills: Strong communication and interpersonal skills are crucial for success.
- Start with Entry-Level Positions: Gaining experience in casual dining or fast-casual restaurants can be a good way to build your resume.
Top Employers Hiring Servers in Ventura
Some of the leading employers looking for Servers in Ventura include:
- California Pizza Kitchen
- Ventura Townehouse
- Wood Ranch BBQ & Grill
Establishments That Servers in Ventura Work At
Servers in Ventura typically work in diverse hospitality settings such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These can offer consistent shifts but often lower pay rates and tips compared to upscale venues.
- Fast Casual Establishments: Faster-paced but often with modest hourly wages and limited tipping.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Usually provide higher hourly rates and larger tip earnings due to clientele.
- Hotel Dining Areas: Often offer opportunities for steady employment and additional benefits.
The type of establishment significantly influences overall salary, with fine dining and busy tourist locations generally providing the best pay and tipping potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Ventura for Servers
If you are considering careers similar to being a Server, here are some options that offer comparable skills and opportunities:
These include Bartender, Barista, and Waiter/Waitress roles, all of which involve interaction with customers and may offer similar or complementary career paths.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Servers in Ventura
Servers should be aware of important labor laws and taxation regulations relevant to their employment in Ventura, CA.
- For federal labor laws and regulations, you can visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The California Department of Industrial Relations provides state-specific labor laws and workplace standards.
- Local regulations and resources can be found at the official City of Ventura website.