Waitress Salary in Santa Clarita, CA
Waitresses in Santa Clarita, 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 Santa Clarita is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting an increasing demand in the hospitality and restaurant sectors in this area.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Santa Clarita, CA?
The salary of a Waitress in Santa Clarita varies based on experience level and employer. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings across different experience stages.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $9.00 | $360.00 | $1,560.00 | $18,720.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $11.00 | $440.00 | $1,906.67 | $22,880.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $12.00 | $480.00 | $2,080.00 | $24,960.00 |
Do Waitresses in Santa Clarita Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses typically earn tips in addition to their base pay. On average, a Waitress in Santa Clarita can earn an approximate extra $10 per hour in tips, which significantly boosts overall income depending on the establishment and customer volume.
Waitress Salary in Santa Clarita vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn an average of approximately $18.00 per hour, equating to around $37,440.00 annually.
In Santa Clarita, Waitresses earn at par with the national average, with the same hourly and annual pay figures reflecting competitive wage levels in this region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Santa Clarita for Waitresses
Nearby areas also offer competitive wages for Waitresses with slight variations:
- Valencia: $18.50 per hour
- Newhall: $17.80 per hour
Waitresses working in Valencia benefit from marginally higher wages, while Newhall offers slightly below Santa Clarita’s average.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Santa Clarita?
The salary of a Waitress in Santa Clarita is influenced by several factors:
- Experience: More seasoned Waitresses usually command higher wages due to improved efficiency and customer service skills.
- Skills and Certifications: Knowledge of POS systems, customer engagement, and obtaining a Food Handler Card can improve employability and pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants typically pay more compared to casual diners or fast-food venues.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening or weekend shifts may offer higher pay rates or tips.
- Location Within Santa Clarita: Wages vary slightly between neighborhoods like Valencia and Newhall.
How To Become a Waitress in Santa Clarita
Becoming a successful Waitress in Santa Clarita requires a combination of training and practical experience.
- Complete a Culinary or Hospitality Program: The College of the Canyons Culinary Arts Program offers valuable coursework that prepares you with fundamental hospitality and service skills.
- Obtain Mandatory Certifications: In California, acquiring the California Food Handler Card is required for working in food service and demonstrates understanding of food safety regulations.
- Gain On-the-Job Experience: Entry-level positions or internships help build practical skills valuable for career advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Santa Clarita
Several prominent companies in the Santa Clarita area actively seek qualified Waitresses:
- Mendocino Farms
- Panda Restaurant Group
- Chick-fil-A Restaurants
Establishments That Waitresses in Santa Clarita Work At
Waitresses find employment in a wide array of venues including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Offering consistent hours and moderate wages, these are common employers.
- Fast Casual Chains: These places often have faster-paced environments and competitive pay structures.
- Fine Dining Venues: These establishments typically offer higher tips and base pay but require excellent customer service skills.
- Bars and Cafés: Additional income through tips and different work atmospheres.
The type of establishment significantly impacts both the base wage and potential tip earnings, making it an important consideration.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Santa Clarita for Waitresses
For those interested in roles related to Waitressing, several similar careers offer opportunities in the hospitality sector.
These include roles such as Server, Backwaiter, and Banquet Server which share similar work environments and skill sets.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Santa Clarita
Understanding applicable labor laws and tax requirements is crucial for any Waitress working in Santa Clarita.
- State labor regulations are enforced by the California Department of Industrial Relations, covering wages, working hours, and worker protections.
- Federal tax responsibilities and guidance can be found at the Internal Revenue Service, which outlines income tax filing and withholding rules.