Waitress Salary in Ventura, CA
Waitresses in Ventura, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The demand for Waitresses in Ventura is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy and expanding job market for servers in the local hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Ventura, CA?
Waitress salaries in Ventura vary depending on experience level and employer type. Here's a breakdown of typical earnings:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,436.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $34,560.00 |
Do Waitresses in Ventura Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses typically earn tips in addition to their base salary. In Ventura, a Waitress can expect to make an additional $10 or more per hour in tips, significantly boosting their total income depending on the establishment's clientele and service volume.
Waitress Salary in Ventura vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn an average hourly wage of around $14.50, which equals approximately $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Waitresses in Ventura earn slightly less hourly at $13.90, and their annual salary is marginally lower at $28,912. Various factors such as local economic conditions and cost of living may influence this difference.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Ventura for Waitresses
Nearby areas that offer higher wages for Waitresses include:
- Downtown Ventura: $15.50 per hour
- Ventura Beach: $17.60 per hour
Working near Ventura Beach can significantly increase a Waitress's hourly wage compared to other nearby locations.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Ventura?
Several factors can impact a Waitress’s earning potential in Ventura:
- Experience Level: More experienced Waitresses tend to command higher wages and better tips.
- Skills and Customer Service: Exceptional interpersonal skills and efficiency improve customer satisfaction and tip earnings.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants usually pay more and have higher tipping potential than casual eateries.
- Shift and Hours Worked: Evening or weekend shifts can often yield better tips and occasionally higher hourly rates.
- Local Economy and Tourism: Busy tourist seasons may increase customer volume and, consequently, earnings.
How To Become a Waitress in Ventura
Entering the profession of Waitress in Ventura involves several key steps:
- Obtain the California Food Handler Card: This mandatory certification confirms knowledge of essential food safety practices.
- Consider Educational Programs: Ventura College offers a Culinary Arts Program providing a solid foundation in food handling and restaurant operations.
- Explore Restaurant Management Studies: Oxnard College's Restaurant Management Program covers critical hospitality and operational skills that benefit servers.
- Earn TIPS Certification: This certification trains servers on responsible alcohol service, an asset for joining establishments serving alcohol.
- Gain Work Experience: Starting in entry-level roles such as hostess or busser can lead to opportunities as a Waitress.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Ventura
Some of the major employers currently hiring Waitresses in Ventura include:
- Meridians Cafe
- Wood Ranch BBQ & Grill
- Black Angus Steakhouse
Establishments That Waitresses in Ventura Work At
Waitresses in Ventura can find employment across various types of establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often offer steady shifts and moderate tips.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Typically provide higher hourly wages and better tipping possibilities.
- Fast Casual Spots: Usually have faster turnover but lower tipping potential.
- Hotels and Resorts: May offer more consistent schedules and benefits in addition to tips.
The type of establishment greatly affects a Waitress’s income through both base pay and tipping opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Ventura for Waitresses
If you're interested in careers related to being a Waitress, consider these options with similar skill sets and work environments:
These include Waiter/Waitress, Fine Dining Server, and Backwaiter positions.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Ventura
Waitresses in Ventura should be knowledgeable about applicable labor laws and tax requirements to protect their rights and ensure proper compliance.
- Visit the California Department of Industrial Relations - State labor laws and regulations for detailed information on employment standards.
- The California Employment Development Department offers resources for state employment services and benefits.
- For federal tax guidelines, refer to the Internal Revenue Service website.