Sommelier Salary in San Bernardino, CA
Sommeliers in San Bernardino, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $31.00 per hour, translating to about $1,240.00 per week, $5,373.33 per month, and $64,480.00 per year.
The job market for Sommeliers is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing demand for skilled wine professionals in San Bernardino and surrounding areas.
How Much Does a Sommelier Make in San Bernardino, CA?
The salary of a Sommelier in San Bernardino varies based on experience, skill level, and the establishment type. Below is an approximate salary range at different career levels.
| 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 San Bernardino Earn Tips?
Sommeliers typically do earn tips, often receiving an additional estimated $10 to $20 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and clientele. These tips can significantly enhance total earnings, especially in upscale restaurants and hotels.
Sommelier Salary in San Bernardino vs. National Average
Nationally, Sommeliers earn an average of around $21.58 per hour, which amounts to about $44,886.40 per year.
Compared to the national average, Sommeliers in San Bernardino earn a notably higher hourly wage of $31.00, reflecting local demand for wine experts as well as the cost of living and hospitality market trends in the area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near San Bernardino for Sommelier
Nearby areas offer slightly higher pay for Sommeliers:
- Downtown San Bernardino: $32.00 per hour
- North San Bernardino: $33.00 per hour
These neighborhoods attract premium establishments where skilled Sommeliers can command better compensation.
What Influences a Sommelier’s Salary in San Bernardino?
The income of a Sommelier in San Bernardino depends on several important factors:
- Experience and Certification: More experienced Sommeliers with certifications tend to command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, luxury hotels, and exclusive wine bars typically pay more than casual dining venues.
- Skills and Knowledge: Expertise in wine regions, food pairing, and customer service enhances earning potential.
- Networking and Reputation: Strong professional connections within the hospitality industry can lead to better-paying roles.
- Location and Market Demand: Higher local cost of living and higher demand for sommelier services positively affect pay.
How To Become a Sommelier in San Bernardino
To establish a career as a Sommelier, consider these essential steps:
- Gain foundational knowledge: Start by learning about wine regions, grape varieties, and wine service basics.
- Pursue certification programs: Offerings like the Certified Sommelier credential from the Court of Master Sommeliers provide valuable industry recognition.
- Advance education: Achieve higher qualifications such as the WSET Level 3 Award in Wines through the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET).
- Work experience: Gain practical experience in restaurants, wineries, or wine retail establishments.
- Continue learning: Attend tastings, workshops, and keep up with wine trends to stay competitive.
Top Employers Hiring Sommeliers in San Bernardino
Key employers in San Bernardino looking for skilled Sommeliers include:
- The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa
- The Castaway Restaurant
- The Sycamore Inn
Establishments That Sommeliers in San Bernardino Work At
Sommeliers generally find roles in a variety of hospitality environments, including:
- Fine dining and upscale restaurants: These venues often offer higher wages and significant tip opportunities.
- Luxury hotels and resorts: Opportunities exist to work with diverse wine selections and international clientele.
- Wineries and wine bars: These provide specialized settings focused on customer education and sales.
- Catering and event companies: Sommeliers may assist in selecting wine pairings for special events.
The prestige and clientele of the establishment greatly influence the salary range and tip potential of Sommeliers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in San Bernardino for Sommelier
If you're interested in careers closely related to Sommelier, consider these similar roles:
These include Beverage Director, Bar Manager, and Bartender positions, all of which share elements of hospitality and beverage service expertise.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sommelier in San Bernardino
Understanding labor laws and tax responsibilities is important for Sommeliers working in San Bernardino:
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and employment information for comprehensive guidance.
- Consult the California state website for labor laws and workplace regulations to understand state-specific requirements.