Waitress Salary in Visalia, CA
Waitresses in Visalia, CA, in 2026, earn approximately $19.66 per hour, which translates to about $786.40 per week, $3,407.73 per month, and $40,892.80 per year.
The demand for Waitresses in Visalia is growing at about 5% per year, signaling a positive outlook for job opportunities in the food service industry within the area.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Visalia, CA?
Waitress salaries in Visalia vary depending on experience and skill level. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings by experience level:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $8.51 | $340.40 | $1,473.07 | $17,692.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.66 | $786.40 | $3,407.73 | $40,892.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $45.41 | $1,816.40 | $7,859.73 | $94,300.80 |
Do Waitresses in Visalia Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses typically earn tips as part of their compensation. On average, they can make an extra $10 per hour in tips, which significantly boosts their overall earnings.
Waitress Salary in Visalia vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses make an average of about $17.24 per hour, or approximately $35,859.20 per year.
Comparatively, Waitresses in Visalia earn a higher average wage of $19.66 per hour and about $40,892.80 annually, indicating better pay relative to the national average.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Visalia for Waitresses
Nearby areas with higher wages for Waitresses include:
- Washington: $21.00 per hour
- Modoc Creek: $20.50 per hour
These surrounding regions offer slightly higher hourly wages than Visalia, which can be attractive for those willing to commute.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Visalia?
Several factors play a significant role in determining how much a Waitress earns in Visalia:
- Experience Level: More experienced Waitresses tend to command higher wages and better tips.
- Skills and Customer Service: Strong communication and multitasking skills can lead to improved tips and job opportunities.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants usually offer higher wages and more generous tip-sharing systems compared to casual dining.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts might come with overtime or higher overall tips.
- Local Demand and Competition: Areas with higher tourism or demand for dining can affect wage levels and tip potentials.
How To Become a Waitress in Visalia
To embark on a career as a Waitress in Visalia, consider the following steps:
- Gain Basic Food Service Knowledge: Understanding of food safety and customer service is fundamental.
- Obtain the California Food Handler Card: This mandatory certification ensures compliance with state food safety practices.
- Consider Culinary or Hospitality Training: Programs like the College of the Sequoias Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive training that helps develop necessary skills.
- Develop Communication Skills: Clear and friendly communication is key for excellent service and higher tips.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Visalia
Some of the notable employers actively hiring Waitresses in Visalia include:
- Buffalo Wild Wings
- The Darling
- Living Care Lifestyles
Establishments That Waitresses in Visalia Work At
Waitresses in Visalia work at a variety of establishments, each influencing their wages differently:
- Casual Dining: These establishments provide a consistent flow of customers and moderate tips.
- Fast Casual: Typically have faster turnover but may offer lower tipping opportunities.
- Fine Dining: These offer higher wages plus the potential for substantial tips due to upscale clientele.
- Bars and Sports Venues: Often provide tips sustained by beverage sales, offering good earning opportunities.
The type and prestige of the establishment largely affect base pay as well as tipping potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Visalia for Waitresses
If you’re exploring other opportunities similar to Waitressing, consider these hospitality roles:
These positions include Server, Backwaiter, and Fine Dining Server, which share similar customer service and hospitality duties.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Visalia
Waitresses in Visalia should be aware of labor laws and tax regulations on both federal and state levels to protect their rights and earnings.
- Visit the U.S. Department of Labor website for comprehensive federal labor laws and employment guidelines.
- For California-specific workplace regulations, the California Department of Industrial Relations provides valuable information.