Waiters and Waitresses Salary in Riverside, CA
BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, CA
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In Riverside, CA, waiters and waitresses earn a median annual salary of $34,350, which is slightly higher than the national median of $33,760 for this occupation. On an hourly basis, the typical worker earns $16.52. When compared to local household income, their earnings are significantly lower; the area's median household income stands at $86,031. This disparity highlights a substantial gap between individual earnings in this role and overall household financial benchmarks within Riverside.
Entry-level waiters and waitresses in Riverside generally earn around the 10th percentile mark of $33,280 annually, which is close to the lower end of local salaries for this occupation. In contrast, experienced workers can reach up to the 75th percentile at $47,050, with top earners making as much as $75,280 per year at the 90th percentile. The difference in earnings between entry-level and seasoned employees is driven by factors such as tenure, skill level, experience, and the ability to work in high-demand locations or upscale establishments that offer higher tips and wages.
Salary percentile breakdown
Riverside economic context
Frequently asked questions
How much do Waiters and Waitresses make per hour in Riverside?
The median hourly wage for Waiters and Waitresses in Riverside, CA is $16.52, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $37.41 or more per hour.
Is Riverside above or below average for Waiters and Waitresses salaries?
The median Waiters and Waitresses salary in Riverside, CA is 1.7% above the national median of $33,760. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.
What is the entry-level salary for Waiters and Waitresses in Riverside?
Entry-level Waiters and Waitresses (10th percentile) earn around $33,280 per year in Riverside, CA. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $33,280.