Waitress Salary in Riverside, CA
Waitresses in Riverside, CA, 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 demand for Waitresses in Riverside is growing steadily at about 5% per year, showing positive job growth and an expanding market for hospitality services in the region.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Riverside, CA?
The salary of a Waitress in Riverside can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general look at earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.00 | $400.00 | $1,733.33 | $20,800.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $11.00 | $440.00 | $1,906.67 | $22,880.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $13.00 | $520.00 | $2,246.67 | $26,960.00 |
Do Waitresses in Riverside Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses in Riverside typically earn tips in addition to their base salary. On average, a Waitress can earn an approximation of $10 per hour in tips, which can significantly increase their overall earnings.
Waitress Salary in Riverside vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn an average of around $18.00 per hour, translating to about $37,440.00 per year.
When compared to the national average, Waitresses in Riverside earn approximately the same, with an hourly wage of $18.00 and an annual salary of $37,440.00.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Riverside for Waitresses
When looking at nearby areas, Waitress salaries vary slightly:
- Downtown Riverside: $19.00 per hour
- Mission Grove: $18.50 per hour
Waitresses working in Downtown Riverside may find slightly better pay compared to those in Mission Grove, making it a desirable area for employment.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Riverside?
Several key factors influence the salary of a Waitress in Riverside:
- Experience and Skill Level: Waitresses with more years of experience or specialized skills tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Restaurants with higher-end dining or more upscale venues often offer better pay and higher tips.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening or weekend shifts may come with higher tips or shift differentials that increase overall income.
- Location: Employment in higher-paying areas like Downtown Riverside can lead to increased earnings.
How To Become a Waitress in Riverside
Starting a career as a Waitress in Riverside involves several self-improvement and credentialing steps:
- Complete relevant culinary or hospitality training: Programs such as the Riverside City College Culinary Arts Program or the California School of Culinary Arts provide valuable culinary and service skills.
- Obtain necessary certifications: Obtaining the California Food Handler Card is mandatory, ensuring knowledge of food safety, along with the ServSafe Certification which is nationally recognized and valued by employers.
- Gain practical experience: Entry-level restaurant or food service jobs help acquire the skills needed to advance.
- Develop strong interpersonal skills: Being personable and efficient significantly helps in this customer-facing role.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Riverside
Some prominent employers actively hiring Waitresses in Riverside include:
- Denny's
- Olive Garden
- The Cheesecake Factory
Establishments That Waitresses in Riverside Work At
Waitresses in Riverside work in a variety of establishments, including:
- Casual dining restaurants: These often provide consistent hours with moderate tip opportunities.
- Fast casual eateries: Typically faster-paced with lower tips but more regular hours.
- Fine dining establishments: Usually offer higher wages and significantly better tips for experienced Waitresses.
- Bars and cafes: Tips can vary greatly depending on clientele and location.
The type of establishment can make a big difference in salary, especially through variations in tipping culture and base pay.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Riverside for Waitresses
If you're interested in careers related to being a Waitress, here are a few similar roles you might consider:
These include Backwaiter, Fine Dining Server, and Server positions, which share some overlapping skills and environments with Waitresses.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Riverside
Understanding labor laws and taxes is important for Waitresses working in Riverside:
- California Department of Industrial Relations covers state labor laws and regulations and can be found here.
- The California Employment Development Department provides state employment services and information, available here.
- The City of Riverside Official Website offers local government resources and information.