Server Salary in Monterey, CA

Updated on May 09, 2025
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How much does a Server make in Monterey, CA?

The average salary for a Server is $36,346 per year in Monterey, CA.

In Monterey, CA, a server can earn a competitive salary. The average annual salary for a server is around $36,346. This figure can vary based on experience, the type of restaurant, and the specific area of Monterey. Servers often earn tips on top of their hourly wage, which can significantly increase their total income.

Factors that can affect a server's earnings include the time of year, the type of restaurant, and the location within Monterey. For example, servers in high-end restaurants may earn more than those in casual dining establishments. Additionally, servers in areas with a higher cost of living may see higher wages to compensate. It's also important to note that many servers rely on tips, which can vary greatly depending on the customer's generosity and the server's performance.

Server jobs in Monterey, CA

What are the highest paying cities for a Server near Monterey, CA?

Job seekers looking for server positions near Monterey, CA, can find high-paying opportunities in Saratoga, CA. This city offers an average salary of $42,140, making it a top choice for those in the field. Nearby, Los Gatos, CA, also provides a competitive salary of $41,820, with other nearby cities like Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA, offering attractive compensation packages. These cities present excellent prospects for server jobs with good pay and a chance to work in vibrant communities.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Server jobs near Monterey, CA, highlighting Saratoga, CA with the highest at $42,140 and Pacific Grove, CA with the lowest at $35,008.
  1. Saratoga, CA
    Average Salary: $42,140
    In Saratoga, working as a server means you'll be part of a vibrant community. Many restaurants and cafes offer a warm, welcoming atmosphere. With companies like The Saratoga Inn, you can expect a chance to grow and learn in a dynamic environment.
    Find Server jobs in Saratoga, CA


  2. Los Gatos, CA
    Average Salary: $41,820
    Los Gatos offers a unique blend of small-town charm and big-city opportunities. Servers here enjoy a lively dining scene. With establishments like The Village Pub, you can expect to serve a diverse clientele in a friendly setting.
    Find Server jobs in Los Gatos, CA


  3. Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA
    Average Salary: $36,701
    Carmel-by-the-Sea is known for its picturesque beauty and upscale dining. Servers here work in elegant settings, often with a focus on providing top-notch service. Restaurants like The French Laundry offer a chance to work in a prestigious environment.
    Find Server jobs in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA


  4. Watsonville, CA
    Average Salary: $36,623
    Watsonville provides a welcoming environment for servers. The city's diverse dining scene offers many opportunities. Restaurants like The Patio on Main Street allow servers to connect with a varied customer base in a laid-back setting.
    Find Server jobs in Watsonville, CA


  5. Scotts Valley, CA
    Average Salary: $36,000
    Scotts Valley offers a mix of casual and fine dining options. Servers here enjoy a friendly community atmosphere. With places like The Scotts Valley Cafe, you can expect to serve both locals and visitors in a cozy setting.
    Find Server jobs in Scotts Valley, CA


  6. Santa Cruz, CA
    Average Salary: $35,921
    Santa Cruz is famous for its laid-back vibe and vibrant food scene. Servers here work in a dynamic environment with many options. Restaurants like The Seabright Cafe offer a chance to serve a diverse crowd in a fun setting.
    Find Server jobs in Santa Cruz, CA


  7. Salinas, CA
    Average Salary: $35,777
    Salinas offers a mix of traditional and modern dining experiences. Servers here enjoy a diverse clientele. With establishments like The Steinbeck Grill, you can expect to work in a welcoming and engaging atmosphere.
    Find Server jobs in Salinas, CA


  8. Gilroy, CA
    Average Salary: $35,632
    Gilroy is known for its agricultural roots and growing food scene. Servers here work in a variety of settings, from casual diners to upscale restaurants. Places like The Old Spaghetti Factory offer a chance to serve a wide range of customers.
    Find Server jobs in Gilroy, CA


  9. Aptos, CA
    Average Salary: $35,242
    Aptos offers a charming and relaxed dining environment. Servers here enjoy a close-knit community. With restaurants like The Lighthouse Cafe, you can expect to serve a friendly and appreciative clientele.
    Find Server jobs in Aptos, CA


  10. Pacific Grove, CA
    Average Salary: $35,008
    Pacific Grove provides a serene and picturesque setting for servers. The city's dining scene is both elegant and welcoming. With places like The Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History Cafe, you can expect to serve a diverse crowd in a beautiful environment.
    Find Server jobs in Pacific Grove, CA

What are the best paying companies for a Server in Monterey, CA?

Bon Appétit, Denny's, and Chipotle Mexican Grill offer some of the best pay for server jobs in Monterey, CA. Bon Appétit leads with an average salary of $50,000. Denny's and Chipotle Mexican Grill follow closely, offering competitive salaries. These companies provide good opportunities for those seeking a rewarding career in the hospitality industry.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Server jobs in Monterey, CA, highlighting Bon Appétit with the highest at $50,000 and Bubba Gump Shrimp Company with the lowest at $31,661.
  1. Bon Appétit
    Average Salary: $50,000
    Bon Appétit offers exciting Server jobs in Monterey, CA. This company is known for its vibrant restaurant culture. Bon Appétit operates multiple locations across the city, providing a dynamic work environment.


  2. Denny's
    Average Salary: $38,653
    Denny's provides Server positions in Monterey, CA. This well-known restaurant chain is famous for its 24-hour service. Denny's has several locations throughout the area, offering a steady work environment.


  3. Chipotle Mexican Grill
    Average Salary: $34,000
    Chipotle Mexican Grill offers Server jobs in Monterey, CA. This popular chain is known for its fresh, fast-casual dining. Chipotle has multiple locations in the city, providing a lively work setting.


  4. Oakmont Senior Living
    Average Salary: $33,200
    Oakmont Senior Living provides Server jobs in Monterey, CA. This company focuses on senior living communities. Oakmont Senior Living operates several facilities in the area, offering a caring work environment.


  5. Stokes Adobe
    Average Salary: $32,333
    Stokes Adobe offers Server positions in Monterey, CA. This company is known for its unique dining experiences. Stokes Adobe operates a single location in the city, providing a cozy work setting.


  6. Chart House
    Average Salary: $32,250
    Chart House provides Server jobs in Monterey, CA. This restaurant chain is famous for its seafood. Chart House has one location in the city, offering a vibrant work environment.


  7. Pacifica Senior Living
    Average Salary: $31,900
    Pacifica Senior Living offers Server positions in Monterey, CA. This company focuses on senior living communities. Pacifica Senior Living operates several facilities in the area, providing a supportive work environment.


  8. Marriott International
    Average Salary: $31,750
    Marriott International provides Server jobs in Monterey, CA. This global hospitality company is known for its luxury hotels. Marriott International operates multiple locations in the city, offering a prestigious work environment.


  9. Coastal Roots Hospitality
    Average Salary: $31,667
    Coastal Roots Hospitality offers Server positions in Monterey, CA. This company is known for its family-friendly restaurants. Coastal Roots Hospitality operates several locations in the area, providing a welcoming work environment.


  10. Bubba Gump Shrimp Company
    Average Salary: $31,661
    Bubba Gump Shrimp Company provides Server jobs in Monterey, CA. This popular chain is famous for its seafood. Bubba Gump Shrimp Company has one location in the city, offering a fun work environment.

Currently 24,699 Server job openings, nationwide.

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Server
24,699 Job Openings