Sommelier Salary in Sacramento, CA
Sommeliers in Sacramento, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $31.00 per hour, which translates to about $1,240.00 per week, $5,373.33 per month, and $64,480.00 per year.
The job demand for Sommeliers in Sacramento is growing moderately at about 2% per year, indicating steady opportunities in the region’s expanding hospitality and wine service sectors.
How Much Does a Sommelier Make in Sacramento, CA?
The salary of a Sommelier in Sacramento varies based on experience and establishment, with entry-level positions earning less and top earners commanding higher pay.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $24.00 | $960.00 | $4,160.00 | $49,920.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $31.00 | $1,240.00 | $5,373.33 | $64,480.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $38.00 | $1,520.00 | $6,586.67 | $79,040.00 |
Do Sommeliers in Sacramento Earn Tips?
Sommeliers often earn tips in addition to their base salary, with experienced Sommeliers potentially earning an extra $10 to $20 per hour in tips depending on the establishment, particularly in fine dining or high-end venues.
Sommelier Salary in Sacramento vs. National Average
Nationally, Sommeliers earn an average of about $19.59 per hour, which adds up to approximately $40,747.20 annually.
In Sacramento, Sommeliers tend to earn significantly more, with an average hourly wage of $31.00 and yearly earnings near $64,480.00, reflecting local demand and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Sacramento for Sommeliers
Nearby areas with notable Sommelier salaries include:
- Downtown Sacramento: $32.50 per hour
- Midtown Sacramento: $31.00 per hour
Sommeliers working in Downtown Sacramento may enjoy slightly higher wages due to the concentration of upscale restaurants and wine bars.
What Influences a Sommelier’s Salary in Sacramento?
Several key factors influence the salary of a Sommelier in Sacramento:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Sommeliers with extensive wine knowledge and service skills typically earn higher salaries.
- Establishment Type: Fine dining restaurants and exclusive wine bars often pay better compared to casual dining venues.
- Certifications: Credentials like the Certified Sommelier by the Court of Master Sommeliers or the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) Level 3 can boost earnings.
- Customer Interaction and Sales Ability: Sommeliers who excel in customer service and wine sales can garner better tips and salary incentives.
- Work Hours and Shift Type: Evening and weekend shifts might come with premium pay or tip potential.
How To Become a Sommelier in Sacramento
To pursue a Sommelier career in Sacramento, consider the following steps:
- Complete Relevant Culinary and Wine Education: Programs like the American River College Culinary Arts Program offer courses focusing on wine studies, providing a solid foundation.
- Pursue Advanced Wine Education: The UC Davis Extension Wine Studies Program offers comprehensive training in wine tasting techniques and wine business management, valuable for aspiring Sommeliers.
- Earn Professional Certifications: Obtaining credentials such as the Certified Sommelier by the Court of Master Sommeliers or the WSET Level 3 Award in Wines can enhance your qualifications and salary potential.
- Gain Practical Experience: Work in restaurants, wine bars, or wineries to develop your skills and network.
Top Employers Hiring Sommeliers in Sacramento
Notable employers looking for Sommeliers in the Sacramento area include:
- Del Paso Country Club
- Cozymeal
- The Firehouse Restaurant
Establishments That Sommeliers in Sacramento Work At
Sommeliers commonly find employment in various types of establishments such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Premium pay and tip potential due to high clientele expectations and wine focus.
- Wine Bars and Tasting Rooms: Opportunities for intimate customer interaction and higher specialty wine knowledge use.
- Country Clubs and Hotels: Often providing steady work and sometimes additional benefits, with pay varying by prestige.
- Culinary Schools and Wine Education Centers: Some Sommeliers work as instructors or consultants, though this might affect immediate earnings.
The type and prestige of the establishment can significantly influence a Sommelier’s salary and career growth opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Sacramento for Sommeliers
If you’re interested in careers similar to being a Sommelier, you might consider these roles:
These include Beverage Director, Bar Manager, and Bartender—roles that often intersect with wine and beverage service expertise.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sommeliers in Sacramento
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is essential for Sommeliers working in Sacramento.
- Visit the California Department of Industrial Relations for details on state labor laws and workplace regulations.
- For federal tax guidelines, the Internal Revenue Service is the authority.
- The City of Sacramento Official Website provides information on local ordinances affecting employment and business.