Waiters and Waitresses Salary in California
Waiters and Waitresses in California earn a median of $36,080 a year, +2% compared with the U.S. median.
Updated October 2026 · Data: BLS OEWS May 2025 · How we match careers
- Median pay
- $36,080
- vs. U.S. median
- +2% ($35,230)
- Rank among states
- 22 of 51
- Jobs in the state
- 229,970
Pay range in California
The lowest-paid 10% earn under $34,320; the top 10% earn over $68,950. Nationally the range is $18,100 to $64,720.
States ranked near California
Similar jobs in California
- Hosts and Hostesses, Restaurant, Lounge, and Coffee Shop$36,640 median in California
- Ushers, Lobby Attendants, and Ticket Takers$37,870 median in California
- Bartenders$36,220 median in California
- Fast Food and Counter Workers$42,280 median in California
- Food Servers, Nonrestaurant$39,010 median in California
- Dining Room and Cafeteria Attendants and Bartender Helpers$36,010 median in California
Waiters and Waitresses pay in California
How much do waiters and waitresses make in California?
The median is $36,080 a year. The lowest-paid 10% earn under $34,320 and the top 10% earn over $68,950. BLS OEWS May 2025.
Is California a good state for waiters and waitresses?
On pay alone it ranks 22 of 51 (+2% vs. the national median of $35,230). Living costs are not included.