Waitress Salary in Pomona, CA
Waitresses in Pomona, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $18.24 per hour, which translates to about $729.60 per week, $3,161.60 per month, and $37,939.20 per year.
The job market for waitresses in Pomona is experiencing positive growth of around 5% per year, indicating increasing demand and more opportunities for individuals pursuing this role.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Pomona, CA?
The salary of a Waitress in Pomona, CA can differ based on experience level and the type of establishment. Here’s an overview of hourly, weekly, monthly, and yearly pay at different stages of their career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.93 | $637.20 | $2,757.20 | $33,146.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.24 | $729.60 | $3,161.60 | $37,939.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.88 | $835.20 | $3,619.20 | $43,382.40 |
Do Waitresses in Pomona Earn Tips?
Yes, waitresses often earn additional income from tips. On average, a waitress can take home almost $10 extra per hour in tips, substantially boosting their overall earnings beyond the base salary.
Waitress Salary in Pomona vs. National Average
Across the United States, waitresses earn an average of about $17.20 per hour, which amounts to around $35,776 per year.
Comparatively, waitresses in Pomona earn slightly higher wages, with an hourly rate of $18.24 and an annual salary averaging $37,939.20. This difference reflects local economic factors and demand in the Pomona area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Pomona for Waitresses
If you consider working in areas near Pomona, here are two neighborhoods with higher than average pay rates for waitresses:
- Downtown Pomona: $19.50 per hour
- North Pomona: $20.00 per hour
Working in these locations can result in better compensation, reflecting factors like clientele and establishment types.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Pomona?
Several factors influence the salary of a Waitress in Pomona, including:
- Experience and Tenure: More experienced waitresses often receive higher wages and better tips.
- Skills and Customer Service Ability: Strong interpersonal skills can lead to higher tip earnings.
- Type of Establishment: Working in fine dining or upscale restaurants generally offers better pay and tips compared to casual or fast-food venues.
- Shift Timing: Evening shifts and weekends may have increased customer flow, impacting wages positively through higher tips.
- Local Economic Conditions: The cost of living and economic health of Pomona can also affect the salary scale.
How To Become a Waitress in Pomona
Beginning a career as a Waitress in Pomona involves a few important steps that can help you stand out and grow in the field.
- Acquire Relevant Training: Programs such as the Hospitality Management Program at Mt. San Antonio College offer comprehensive training in the hospitality industry, which is highly beneficial.
- Enhance Culinary and Service Skills: The Culinary Arts Program at Chaffey College provides hands-on experience that can improve your understanding of food and customer service.
- Obtain Necessary Certifications: The California Food Handler Card is mandatory for food service employees and ensures you know food safety procedures.
- Earn Responsible Service Certifications: The TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification equips you to responsibly serve alcohol and handle customer situations effectively.
- Gain Experience: Starting in entry-level roles and building experience will open doors to higher-paying opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Pomona
If you’re seeking employment as a Waitress in Pomona, CA, consider applying at these well-known establishments:
- El Jefe
- Pho Ha Vietnamese Restaurant
- Marinaj Banquets & Events
Establishments That Waitresses in Pomona Work At
Waitresses in Pomona typically find jobs in a variety of settings including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These provide steady work and moderate tips, often with flexible hours.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: While these might pay less, they offer high volume which can compensate tips-wise.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Venues: Often the highest paying for both salary and tips, with a greater emphasis on service quality.
- Caterers and Banquet Halls: Such as Marinaj Banquets & Events, offering event-based work that may yield higher tip opportunities.
The kind of establishment affects not just the base salary but the potential for earning tips, making it an important consideration for waitresses.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Pomona for Waitresses
If you’re interested in exploring careers related to being a Waitress, consider these positions. They share similar skills and can offer different pathways within the hospitality sector.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Pomona
Waitresses should be aware of labor laws and tax regulations that affect their work conditions and earnings in Pomona, CA.
- For state-specific labor laws and regulations, visit the California Department of Industrial Relations.
- The California Employment Development Department provides information on employment services and tax compliance.
- For federal labor laws and workplace rights, consult the U.S. Department of Labor.