Waitress Salary in Thousand-Oaks, CA
Waitresses in Thousand-Oaks, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $21.67 per hour, which translates to about $866.80 per week, $3,756.13 per month, and $45,073.60 per year.
The demand for Waitresses in Thousand-Oaks is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive job outlook and expanding opportunities in the hospitality sector of the region.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Thousand-Oaks, CA?
The salary of a Waitress in Thousand-Oaks can vary depending on experience and specific establishments, but here is a general overview of earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $21.67 | $866.80 | $3,756.13 | $45,073.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $28.90 | $1,156.00 | $5,000.33 | $60,112.00 |
Do Waitresses in Thousand-Oaks Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses typically earn significant tips that can greatly supplement their income. In Thousand-Oaks, a Waitress can earn an extra $10 to $15 per hour in tips alone, depending on the establishment and clientele, which can substantially increase their overall earnings.
Waitress Salary in Thousand-Oaks, CA vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn an average of around $17.50 per hour, translating to about $36,400 per year.
Compared to the national average, Waitresses in Thousand-Oaks earn a noticeably higher average wage of $21.67 per hour, or $45,073.60 annually.
This difference reflects higher living costs and a strong local hospitality industry that rewards skilled waiting staff accordingly.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Thousand-Oaks for Waitresses
Nearby areas offer slightly different compensation levels for Waitresses:
- Westlake Village: $22.50 per hour
- Newbury Park: $21.00 per hour
Waitresses working in Westlake Village tend to earn more than those in Newbury Park, making it an attractive option for those seeking higher salaries close to Thousand-Oaks.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Thousand-Oaks?
Several factors can influence how much a Waitress earns in Thousand-Oaks:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Waitresses with strong customer service skills often command higher wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants and upscale venues tend to pay more and generate larger tips compared to casual eateries or fast-food outlets.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts can provide more opportunities for tips and may include shift differentials.
- Certification and Training: Certifications like food safety or alcohol service can make a Waitress more attractive to employers.
- Local Economy and Cost of Living: Thousand-Oaks' higher living costs require better wages compared to less expensive areas.
How To Become a Waitress in Thousand-Oaks
To start a career as a Waitress in Thousand-Oaks, consider the following steps:
- Complete Relevant Training: Enrolling in hospitality and culinary programs can improve your skills. Moorpark College Culinary Arts Program offers comprehensive training helpful for aspiring hospitality professionals.
- Study Hospitality Management: The Ventura County Community College District Hospitality Management Program equips students with essential industry skills.
- Get Required Certifications: Obtaining the California Food Handler Card is mandatory for all food service employees. Additionally, earning the Responsible Beverage Service (RBS) Certification is required for servers in California and teaches responsible alcohol service.
- Gain Practical Experience: Starting in entry-level positions or internships helps build valuable customer service and multitasking skills.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Thousand-Oaks
Some of the leading employers offering opportunities for Waitresses in Thousand-Oaks include:
- Olive Garden
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Mastro's Steakhouse
- Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar
- Red O Restaurant
Establishments That Waitresses in Thousand-Oaks Work At
Waitresses commonly work at a range of establishments including casual dining, fast casual, fine dining, and family restaurants.
The type of establishment greatly impacts salary and tips. For example, fine dining venues often provide higher base pay and better tipping potential, while fast casual places may offer lower wages but more consistent hours.
Casual dining restaurants in Thousand-Oaks provide steady opportunities and competitive salaries for Waitresses starting or growing their careers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Thousand-Oaks for Waitresses
If you're exploring careers related to Waitressing, consider similar roles that utilize customer service and hospitality skills.
These roles include Fine Dining Server, Backwaiter, and Server, each offering different career pathways within the hospitality sector.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Thousand-Oaks
Understanding the relevant labor laws and tax obligations is crucial for Waitresses working in Thousand-Oaks.
- California’s labor laws and regulations can be found at the California Department of Industrial Relations, detailing wage rules, working hours, and employee rights.
- The Internal Revenue Service provides federal tax information important for accurate tax filing and understanding withholdings.
- Local regulations and resources are available through the County of Ventura website, which can assist with additional county-specific employment guidelines.