Waitress Salary in Chico, CA
Waitresses in Chico, CA, in 2026, earn approximately $18.00 per hour, which translates to about $720.00 per week, $3,120.00 per month, and $37,440.00 per year.
The job outlook for Waitresses in Chico is positive, with employment expected to grow by about 5% per year, indicating a healthy demand for skilled servers in the hospitality sector.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Chico, CA?
The salary of a Waitress in Chico can vary depending on experience and the type of establishment. Here is a breakdown of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.50 | $660.00 | $2,860.00 | $34,320.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.98 | $759.20 | $3,278.80 | $39,478.40 |
Do Waitresses in Chico Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses in Chico typically earn tips in addition to their hourly wage. They can make an extra $10 per hour in tips on average, which significantly boosts their overall income.
Waitress Salary in Chico vs. National Average
Nationally, the average hourly pay for a Waitress is approximately $18.00 per hour, equivalent to about $37,440 per year.
Waitresses in Chico, CA, earn about the same as the national average, with an hourly wage of $18.00 and an annual salary of $37,440.00. This parity reflects the competitive hospitality market in the area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Chico for Waitresses
Nearby areas to Chico that offer slightly higher wages for Waitresses include:
- The Avenues: $18.50 per hour
- California Park: $18.75 per hour
Waitresses working in these locations may benefit from higher pay rates compared to central Chico.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Chico?
Several factors can influence how much a Waitress earns in Chico:
- Experience and Skills: More experienced Waitresses with strong communication and multitasking skills tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or venues with higher customer volume often provide better pay and more generous tips compared to casual eateries.
- Shift and Hours Worked: Working peak hours or weekends can result in higher income due to increased customer flow and possible overtime pay.
- Certifications and Training: Having certifications like a Food Handler Card or Responsible Beverage Service (RBS) Certification can enhance employability and pay.
- Local Economic Factors: Cost of living and economic conditions in Chico affect wage levels and tipping practices.
How To Become a Waitress in Chico
Here are some key steps to start a career as a Waitress in Chico:
- Acquire Food Safety Certification: Obtain the California Food Handler Card, which is mandatory for all food service employees in the state.
- Responsible Alcohol Service: If serving alcoholic beverages, completing the Responsible Beverage Service (RBS) Certification is required.
- Gain Relevant Education: Consider enrolling in programs such as the Butte College Culinary Arts Program or the Chico State University Hospitality Management Program to develop essential hospitality skills.
- Develop Customer Service Skills: Strong interpersonal communication and multitasking abilities are vital for success.
- Start with Entry-Level Positions: Gain experience as a hostess or food runner to build a foundation for a Waitress position.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Chico
Several notable employers in Chico actively hire Waitresses:
- Denny's
- Bowlero
- Courtyard by Marriott Chico
Establishments That Waitresses in Chico Work At
Waitresses in Chico can be found working in various types of establishments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often have moderate wages and good tipping opportunities.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Typically have faster-paced environments with slightly lower wages but more customers.
- Hotels and Resorts: Upscale establishments like Courtyard by Marriott offer stable pay and the potential for better tips.
- Bowling Alleys and Entertainment Venues: Places like Bowlero provide varying schedules and busy service times that can influence earnings.
The type of establishment greatly impacts the base salary and tip income of a Waitress.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Chico for Waitresses
If you are interested in careers related to Waitressing, here are some similar roles to consider:
These careers include Server, Fine Dining Server, and Backwaiter – roles that share similar skills and earning potentials.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Chico
Waitresses in Chico should be aware of relevant labor laws and tax regulations to protect their rights and income.
- Visit the California Department of Industrial Relations for information on state labor laws and regulations.
- The California Employment Development Department provides resources on employment services and tax information.
- For local government resources, the City of Chico Official Website offers useful information relevant to employees and employers.