Waitress Salary in Torrance, CA
Waitresses in Torrance, CA in 2025 earn on average $20.88 per hour, which amounts to approximately $835.20 per week, $3,619.20 per month, and $43,430.40 per year.
The employment outlook for Waitresses in Torrance is positive, with a growth rate of about 5% per year, indicating a steady increase in demand for this role in the local hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Torrance, CA?
The salary of a Waitress in Torrance varies based on experience and employer type. Here is a breakdown by experience level:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.96 | $598.40 | $2,589.33 | $31,101.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.88 | $835.20 | $3,619.20 | $43,430.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $29.13 | $1,165.20 | $5,041.87 | $60,542.40 |
Do Waitresses in Torrance Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses typically earn tips in addition to their hourly wage. Tips can significantly boost overall earnings, with well-performing Waitresses often receiving an extra $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and customer volume.
Waitress Salary in Torrance vs. National Average
On a national level, Waitresses make about $17.11 per hour and approximately $35,588.80 annually.
Compared to the national average, Waitresses in Torrance earn considerably more, with an average hourly wage of $20.88 and annual earnings near $43,430.40. This difference is likely influenced by the local economy and cost of living in the Torrance area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Torrance for Waitresses
Nearby areas offer competitive wages for Waitresses:
- Area 1: $25.50 per hour
- Area 2: $27.60 per hour
Waitresses willing to commute to these regions might find higher pay opportunities compared to Torrance itself.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Torrance?
The salary of a Waitress in Torrance can be influenced by several important factors:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Waitresses with a strong knowledge of customer service and menu details tend to earn higher wages and receive larger tips.
- Type of Establishment: Workplaces such as fine dining restaurants typically pay better wages and provide greater tipping opportunities compared to casual or fast-food restaurants.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts may offer shift differentials that increase total earnings.
- Geographic Location: Areas with a higher cost of living or tourist activity usually have higher tipping culture and wage averages.
- Certifications: Completion of alcohol service or food handler certifications can make candidates more attractive to employers and potentially increase wages.
How To Become a Waitress in Torrance
Becoming a Waitress in Torrance involves several key steps:
- Gain Relevant Education: Enrolling in programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Los Angeles Harbor College or the Hospitality Management Program at El Camino College can provide foundational knowledge and customer service skills.
- Obtain Required Certifications: Most Waitresses in California must have a California Food Handler Card, and those serving alcohol benefit from a ServSafe Alcohol Certification.
- Gain Experience: Starting as a host or busser can offer valuable hands-on experience before transitioning to a Waitress role.
- Develop Communication Skills: Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to multitask effectively are critical in the fast-paced restaurant environment.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Torrance
Some well-known employers searching for Waitresses in the Torrance area include:
- The Depot
- Aloha Kitchen
- Gabi James
Establishments That Waitresses in Torrance Work At
Waitresses in Torrance find employment across a variety of hospitality environments:
- Casual Restaurants: These typically offer steady hours with moderate pay and tips.
- Fast Casual Establishments: Often quicker service with higher customer turnover and varying tip amounts.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Provide opportunities for higher tips and wages due to upscale menus and attentive service expectations.
- Cafés and Bistros: Can be a comfortable working environment with stable clientele, though tips and wages may be moderate.
The venue type significantly affects overall compensation, especially in terms of tips and hourly wages.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Torrance for Waitresses
If you are exploring roles similar to Waitress, consider these positions that also require excellent customer interaction and hospitality skills:
These roles include Server, Fine Dining Server, and Backwaiter, which share many skills and responsibilities with a Waitress.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Torrance
Understanding the legal framework is essential for Waitresses working in Torrance. Resources include:
- California regulations are available at the California Department of Industrial Relations, providing guidance on labor laws and employee rights.
- Employment services and tax information can be found through the California Employment Development Department.