Food Servers Salary in California
Food Servers in California earn a median of $39,010 a year, +10% compared with the U.S. median.
Updated October 2026 · Data: BLS OEWS May 2025 · How we match careers
- Median pay
- $39,010
- vs. U.S. median
- +10% ($35,360)
- Rank among states
- 2 of 51
- Jobs in the state
- 32,430
Pay range in California
The lowest-paid 10% earn under $35,120; the top 10% earn over $57,550. Nationally the range is $28,030 to $46,120.
States ranked near California
Similar jobs in California
- Fast Food and Counter Workers$42,280 median in California
- Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria$46,390 median in California
- Waiters and Waitresses$36,080 median in California
- Dining Room and Cafeteria Attendants and Bartender Helpers$36,010 median in California
- Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners$42,660 median in California
- Cooks, Fast Food$42,050 median in California
Food Servers pay in California
How much do food servers make in California?
The median is $39,010 a year. The lowest-paid 10% earn under $35,120 and the top 10% earn over $57,550. BLS OEWS May 2025.
Is California a good state for food servers?
On pay alone it ranks 2 of 51 (+10% vs. the national median of $35,360). Living costs are not included.