Sommelier Salary in Corona, CA
Sommeliers in Corona, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $25.00 per hour, which translates to about $1,000.00 per week, $4,333.33 per month, and $52,000.00 per year.
The demand for Sommeliers in Corona is growing at a rate of about 6% per year, indicating a positive job growth outlook and increasing opportunities in the local wine and hospitality market.
How Much Does a Sommelier Make in Corona, CA?
The salary of a Sommelier in Corona varies depending on experience and establishment, but generally falls within the following pay ranges:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $25.00 | $1,000.00 | $4,333.33 | $52,000.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $35.00 | $1,400.00 | $6,033.33 | $72,800.00 |
Do Sommeliers in Corona, CA Earn Tips?
Sommeliers often earn tips as part of their compensation, especially in fine dining establishments. They can expect an extra $10 to $20 per hour in tips, depending on the venue and volume of service, increasing their overall earnings significantly.
Sommelier Salary in Corona, CA vs. National Average
Nationally, Sommeliers earn an average of about $24.00 per hour, which amounts to around $49,920.00 annually.
Compared to the national average, Sommeliers in Corona earn slightly more per hour and annually, reflecting the local hospitality market's demand and cost of living differences.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Corona for Sommeliers
Nearby areas generally offer competitive wages for Sommeliers, including:
- Downtown Corona: $27.00 per hour
- South Corona: $28.50 per hour
Sommeliers working in these neighborhoods tend to receive higher compensation, likely due to the density of upscale restaurants and wine-focused establishments.
What Influences a Sommelier’s Salary in Corona, CA?
A Sommelier’s salary in Corona can be influenced by several key factors:
- Experience: More experienced sommeliers often command higher pay due to refined palate skills and client relations.
- Skills and Certifications: Knowledge of wine varieties, food pairing, and certifications such as those from the Court of Master Sommeliers or Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) can greatly increase earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, wineries, and luxury hotels typically offer higher salaries than casual dining spots.
- Location: Areas with a thriving wine or tourism industry may offer more lucrative opportunities.
- Sales and Tips: Sommeliers who are also involved in wine sales or work in high-tipping environments can see additional income.
How To Become a Sommelier in Corona, CA
Becoming a Sommelier involves education, training, and experience. Here are some steps to consider:
- Obtain Formal Wine Education: Schools like the Neptune School of Wine in nearby Orange County offer comprehensive wine education, including sommelier certification courses.
- Earn Certifications: Consider certifications through recognized bodies such as the Court of Master Sommeliers or the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET), which enhance credibility and career prospects.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working in restaurants, wineries, or wine retail helps develop essential skills in wine tasting, service, and customer interaction.
- Develop Communication Skills: Effective communication and customer service are crucial for success in this role.
Top Employers Hiring Sommeliers in Corona, CA
Leading employers in the Corona area seeking Sommeliers include:
- Monster Beverage
- Saleen
- Fender
- Circle K
Establishments That Sommeliers in Corona, CA Work At
Sommeliers typically find employment in varied types of establishments, including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: High-end establishments offer the best pay and tips with a focus on wine expertise.
- Wineries and Vineyards: Employment here often involves wine production knowledge and tasting sessions.
- Luxury Hotels and Resorts: These venues usually pay well and value sommelier skills for their dining services.
- Wine Retailers and Boutiques: Sommeliers act as advisors and sales experts, influencing their earnings differently.
The type of establishment greatly impacts salary, with fine dining and luxury venues generally offering the highest earnings.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Corona, CA for Sommeliers
If you’re interested in similar hospitality roles related to the Sommelier profession, consider the following careers with related responsibilities and salary potential:
These roles include Beverage Director, Bar Manager, and Bartender, which involve a focus on beverage expertise and customer experience within hospitality.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sommeliers in Corona, CA
Sommeliers should be familiar with relevant labor laws and tax obligations to ensure compliance and understand their employment rights:
- Visit the U.S. Department of Labor federal website for federal labor regulations.
- Refer to the California Department of Industrial Relations state website for state-specific labor laws and workplace standards.