How to Become a Waiters and Waitresses in California
Waiters and Waitresses in California earn a median salary of $35,290/year, which is 5% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~1.7%. After taxes and rent, a waiters and waitresses takes home approximately $1,072/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.
What a waiters and waitresses can afford in California
Becoming a waiters and waitresses in California
Meet education requirements
Waiters and Waitresses positions in California typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many waiters and waitresses positions in California require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain California licensure or certification
California may require specific licensing or professional certification for waiters and waitressess. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in California
California employs 243,300 waiters and waitresses. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont.
Waiters and Waitresses salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $41K | $19.53/hr | 12,660 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $37K | $17.96/hr | 30,450 |
| Napa | $37K | $17.83/hr | 2,290 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $36K | $17.46/hr | 4,050 |
| Vallejo | $36K | $17.39/hr | 1,810 |
| Salinas | $35K | $17.01/hr | 3,460 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $35K | $16.96/hr | 1,800 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $35K | $16.86/hr | 14,840 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $35K | $16.85/hr | 24,800 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $35K | $16.86/hr | 91,020 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $35K | $16.61/hr | 2,860 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $34K | $16.52/hr | 21,450 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $34K | $16.51/hr | 3,710 |
| Modesto | $34K | $16.5/hr | 2,280 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $34K | $16.42/hr | 4,850 |
Waiters and Waitresses salary range in California
Waiters and Waitresses careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a waiters and waitresses make in California?▼
The median waiters and waitresses salary in California is $35,290 per year ($16.97/hr). This is 5% above the national median of $33,760. Salaries range from $33,310 to $70,450.
What are the requirements to become a waiters and waitresses in California?▼
Waiters and Waitresses positions in California typically require No formal educational credential. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a waiters and waitresses afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $35,290, a waiters and waitresses in California would take home approximately $2,484/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 56.8% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for waiters and waitresses in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for waiters and waitresses in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($40,620), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($37,360), Napa ($37,090). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for waiters and waitresses?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 1.7%. On a $35,290 salary, this means roughly $592/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.