What Restaurants Do Cashiers Make the Most Money at in Tucson, AZ?

restaurants where cashiers make most money in tucson cover image
Stefan Petrov Avatar

By: Stefan Petrov, Jun 23, 2025

Cashiers in Tucson typically earn around $13 per hour, but their overall earnings depend heavily on the type of establishment they work at. While Cashiers generally don't make tips like front-of-house positions, some restaurants do allow for tip sharing or occasional bonuses, which can add another $1-$5 per hour on average.

This article will explore which restaurants in Tucson pay Cashiers well and how factors like restaurant type, location and size affect wages. We’ll also cover tips for finding high-paying Cashier jobs and discuss whether the salary fits Tucson’s cost of living.

Top-Paying Restaurants for Cashiers in Tucson, AZ

Tucson offers a mix of casual and upscale dining options, each affecting Cashier salaries differently. Here are some of the top-paying restaurants and eateries where Cashiers can find competitive wages in the city:

1. The Grill at Hacienda del Sol

Nestled in a historic hacienda, this upscale restaurant is famous for its Southwestern cuisine and luxurious ambiance. Cashiers here benefit from a higher hourly rate complemented by occasional tips shared from front-of-house earnings.

2. Barrio Brewing Co.

A popular local brewery and eatery known for its craft beers and Southwestern fare. Cashiers earn a competitive base wage and sometimes receive bonuses during busy events and festivals.

3. Felix Mediterranean Grill

Serving authentic Mediterranean dishes with a bustling lunch crowd, Felix offers Cashiers steady hours and slightly above-average pay given its neighborhood favorite status.

4. Penca

Known for its modern Mexican cuisine and vibrant atmosphere, Penca provides Cashiers with decent base pay and the opportunity for tip sharing during peak service hours.

5. The Parish

A lively restaurant specializing in Cajun and Creole dishes, The Parish often rewards Cashiers with bonuses after busy weekends, reflecting its bustling atmosphere.

6. JT's BBQ

A local favorite barbecue joint with a casual dining vibe where Cashiers enjoy reliable shifts and slightly better-than-average wages for the area's casual eateries.

Hiring for this role?

OR

Looking for top paid jobs?

The Impact of Restaurant Type on Cashier Earnings

The type of restaurant greatly influences Cashier pay in Tucson. Generally, upscale or specialty restaurants offer higher base wages and additional tip-sharing opportunities, while casual or fast-food establishments may offer lower hourly rates.

Factors impacting earnings include:

  • Upscale establishments often pay higher hourly wages and sometimes distribute tips among all front-of-house staff, including Cashiers.
  • Casual dining and fast-food chains typically have lower hourly wages with limited or no tip-sharing programs but they offer steady and consistent hours.
  • Location also matters; restaurants in Tucson's busy downtown or tourist areas pay more due to higher customer volumes and sales.
  • Certification or experience in cash handling or customer service can sometimes lead to raises or bonuses.

To put it in perspective, Cashiers in casual Tucson restaurants may earn a base pay around $12-$13 with tips or bonuses adding $0-$2 per hour, whereas Cashiers at upscale venues can make $14-$16 per hour plus an additional $3-$5 per hour in tips or bonuses.

How To Find a High Paying Cashier Job in Tucson

Research Local Dining Trends

Understand which neighborhoods and restaurant types offer higher pay for Cashiers. Focus on areas like downtown Tucson and university districts, which tend to have higher foot traffic and better wages.

Build Relevant Skills

Highlight your cash handling experience, customer service skills and familiarity with point-of-sale systems. Certifications in customer relations or food safety can increase your value to employers.

Network and Apply Strategically

Connect with restaurant managers and staff through local events, online platforms and referrals. Applying in person during slower hours can make a good impression.

Prepare for Interviews

Be ready to discuss your previous experience, reliability and ability to handle busy environments. Demonstrate a positive attitude and eagerness to contribute.

What’s the Outlook for Cashier Jobs in Tucson in 2025 and Beyond?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a steady demand for Cashier positions nationwide, including Tucson. While some jobs may be affected by automation, many restaurants in Tucson continue to require friendly, reliable Cashiers for customer interaction.

Factors supporting employment growth in Tucson include:

  • The city’s expanding food scene, especially in downtown and student-popular areas
  • Increasing tourism that boosts demand in service roles
  • New fast-casual and specialty dining establishments opening in the metro area

Cashiers who develop strong interpersonal skills and adaptability are likely to find stable opportunities through 2025 and beyond.

Is a Cashier’s Salary Enough to Live Well in Tucson?

A Cashier in Tucson typically makes about $13 per hour, totaling roughly $27,000 annually before any bonuses or tip sharing. With possible additional earnings of $1-$5 per hour from tips or incentives, some Cashiers can push that number closer to $30,000.

Tucson has a relatively low cost of living compared to many U.S. cities. Approximate monthly expenses include:

  • 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $900
  • Utilities: $150
  • Groceries: $300
  • Transportation: $100–$150

Given these costs, a single Cashier living modestly can cover essentials and possibly save but might need to supplement income during slower months or if supporting dependents.

Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Tucson Cashier Jobs

We selected these restaurants based on comprehensive wage data, employee reviews and feedback from local hospitality experts to highlight places where Cashiers receive both competitive pay and positive work environments.

  • Competitive Wage Offerings: Restaurants paying above Tucson’s average Cashier wage.
  • Tip/Bonus Opportunities: Consideration given to venues where Cashiers can earn supplemental income.
  • Location: Preference for restaurants in higher-traffic areas or those known for strong patronage.
  • Employee Satisfaction: Businesses with positive reviews for management and work conditions.

Our curated list aims to guide Cashiers toward gigs that balance solid pay with enjoyable and stable working conditions.

Hiring for this role?

OR

Looking for top paid jobs?