Sommelier Salary in Santa Clarita, CA
Sommeliers in Santa Clarita, 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 market for Sommeliers is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy increase in demand in the Santa Clarita area for these specialized hospitality professionals.
How Much Does a Sommelier Make in Santa Clarita, CA?
The salary of a Sommelier in Santa Clarita depends on their level of experience and the establishment they work for. Below is an overview of typical earnings by experience:
| 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 | $6,573.33 | $78,960.00 |
Do Sommeliers in Santa Clarita Earn Tips?
Sommeliers often earn tips in addition to their salary, especially when working in fine dining settings where personalized wine service is valued. Tips can amount to an extra $10 per hour or more, depending on the venue and clientele, improving their total compensation considerably.
Sommelier Salary in Santa Clarita vs. National Average
Nationally, Sommeliers earn an average of about $21.58 per hour and approximately $44,886.40 per year.
Comparatively, Sommeliers in Santa Clarita earn notably more, with an average hourly wage of $31.00 and annual salary of $64,480.00. This difference reflects the local market's demand for sommeliers and the higher cost of living in California.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Santa Clarita for Sommeliers
Nearby areas sometimes offer slightly higher pay for Sommeliers:
- Valencia: $32.00 per hour
- Newhall: $31.50 per hour
Valencia offers the highest average hourly rate, which might attract Sommeliers willing to commute.
What Influences a Sommelier’s Salary in Santa Clarita?
Several factors can influence a Sommelier's salary in Santa Clarita:
- Experience and Certifications: Advanced certifications such as from the Court of Master Sommeliers often result in higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants and luxury hotels typically pay Sommeliers better than casual dining or small venues.
- Skills and Knowledge: Expertise in wine selection, pairing, and customer service enhance value.
- Tips and Bonuses: Establishment policies and customer generosity can significantly impact total income.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Santa Clarita’s economic environment affects compensation levels.
How To Become a Sommelier in Santa Clarita
To pursue a career as a Sommelier, consider the following steps:
- Gain Foundational Knowledge: Programs like the College of the Canyons – Culinary Arts Program with its certificate in Wine Studies provide valuable training and wine knowledge.
- Earn Certifications: The Court of Master Sommeliers offers a structured certification path, from Introductory through to Master Sommelier, which is highly respected in the industry.
- Acquire Practical Experience: Working in wine-focused roles in restaurants or wine shops helps develop crucial skills.
- Network and Continue Learning: Join professional groups and stay current with wine industry trends.
Top Employers Hiring Sommeliers in Santa Clarita
Some prominent employers in the Santa Clarita area seeking Sommeliers include:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Sommeliers in Santa Clarita Work At
Sommeliers generally work in diverse establishments such as:
- Fine dining restaurants: These venues usually offer the highest salaries and tips due to their focus on wine culture.
- Upscale hotels and resorts: Providing wine service for events and restaurants, salaries tend to be competitive.
- Wine bars and specialty lounges: Smaller settings that may offer variable income, often relying more on tips.
- Casual dining establishments: Sommeliers here may have lower salaries but gain valuable experience.
The type of establishment has a direct impact on a Sommelier's earning potential, with finer venues offering more lucrative compensation packages.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Santa Clarita for Sommeliers
Sommeliers often find related career opportunities in the hospitality industry. Here are a few similar roles:
These include Beverage Director, Bar Manager, and Bartender, all of which require knowledge of beverages and customer interaction skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sommeliers in Santa Clarita
Sommeliers should be familiar with relevant labor laws and tax requirements to ensure fair workplace treatment and proper compliance.
- For federal labor laws, visit the Federal Department of Labor website.
- For California-specific labor regulations and workplace laws, review the information at the California Department of Industrial Relations.