Waitress Salary in San Bernardino, CA
Waitresses in San Bernardino, CA, in 2025, 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 market for Waitresses in San Bernardino is showing positive growth at around 5% per year, indicating a healthy demand for service staff in the hospitality industry across the region.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in San Bernardino, CA?
The salary of a Waitress in San Bernardino varies depending on experience and the employer. Below is an overview of earnings based on different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.94 | $597.60 | $2,584.20 | $31,075.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.39 | $655.60 | $2,830.93 | $33,971.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.36 | $774.40 | $3,320.53 | $39,916.80 |
Do Waitresses in San Bernardino Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses in San Bernardino typically earn tips in addition to their base pay. They can make an extra $10 or more per hour in tips depending on the establishment and customer traffic, significantly boosting their overall compensation.
Waitress Salary in San Bernardino vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn an average of around $16.00 per hour, amounting to about $33,280 per year.
Compared to the national average, Waitresses in San Bernardino earn slightly more, at around $18.00 per hour and $37,440 annually.
This difference reflects local market demands and cost-of-living considerations, as well as the potential for solid tip income in the region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near San Bernardino for Waitresses
Nearby areas in the San Bernardino region offer varied pay levels for Waitresses:
- Downtown: $19.00 per hour
- North San Bernardino: $18.50 per hour
Waitresses working in Downtown San Bernardino may find higher salary opportunities compared to nearby neighborhoods.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in San Bernardino?
Several factors determine the earning potential of a Waitress in San Bernardino:
- Experience and Skill Level: Veteran Waitresses with excellent customer service skills and efficiency can command higher wages and better tipping rates.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and busy diners typically offer higher base pay and better tips than casual or fast-food outlets.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening and weekend shifts may come with premium pay or higher tips.
- Certification and Training: Certifications such as the California Food Handler Card or ServSafe can enhance job prospects and salary.
- Local Demand and Competition: Areas with high tourist traffic or robust dining scenes tend to offer better compensation.
How To Become a Waitress in San Bernardino
Becoming a successful Waitress in San Bernardino involves several steps and options for training:
- Complete Food Safety Certification: Obtaining a California Food Handler Card is a mandatory certification for all food service employees in the state.
- Consider ServSafe Training: The ServSafe Certification is a nationally recognized food safety training program valued by many employers.
- Gain Experience: Entry-level positions or volunteering in local eateries can provide practical experience and build service skills.
- Explore Local Hospitality Programs: Programs like the San Bernardino Valley College Culinary Arts Program or the California State University, San Bernardino Hospitality Management Program offer education that can improve your knowledge of restaurant operations and customer service excellence.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in San Bernardino
Some of the notable employers consistently hiring Waitresses in San Bernardino include:
- IHOP
- Denny's
- Olive Garden
Establishments That Waitresses in San Bernardino Work At
Waitresses in San Bernardino typically find employment across various hospitality environments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer steady hours and respectable base pay but may vary in tip income.
- Fast Casual and Chain Restaurants: Often have predictable schedules and hourly wages but generally lower tips.
- Upscale or Fine Dining Establishments: Tend to provide higher salaries and significantly better tipping opportunities thanks to higher check averages and customized service expectations.
- Cafes and Diners: Provide a friendly environment and can offer moderate wages and tips but usually less than fine dining.
The type of establishment profoundly impacts the overall compensation and working conditions for a Waitress.
Related Hospitality Jobs in San Bernardino for Waitresses
If you are interested in roles similar to a Waitress, consider related positions such as Server, Banquet Server, or Hostess. These roles share many skills and sometimes offer different wage structures or perks.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in San Bernardino
Understanding labor laws and tax requirements help Waitresses manage their employment terms and finances in California.
- Visit the California Department of Industrial Relations - State labor laws and regulations for rules on wages, hours, and workplace conditions.
- Refer to the California Employment Development Department - State employment services and information for guidance on employment taxes and benefits.