Position
City
Salary

How much does a Server make in Santa Cruz, CA?

The average salary for a Server is $38,823 per year in Santa Cruz, CA.

In Santa Cruz, CA, servers play a key role in the restaurant industry. They interact with customers, take orders, and serve food and drinks. The average yearly salary for a server in Santa Cruz is $38,823. This amount can change based on experience and the specific restaurant. Some servers earn less, while others earn more.


A server's earnings can vary greatly. Here are the main salary ranges for servers in Santa Cruz:

  • 10% of servers make less than $32,000.
  • 20% make between $32,000 and $34,244.
  • 30% make between $34,244 and $36,487.
  • 40% make between $36,487 and $38,731.
  • 50% make between $38,731 and $40,975.
  • 60% make between $40,975 and $43,218.
  • 70% make between $43,218 and $45,462.
  • 80% make between $45,462 and $47,705.
  • 90% make between $47,705 and $49,949.
  • 95% make less than $52,193.
Servers with more experience or working at higher-end restaurants often earn at the higher end of this range.

Server jobs in Santa Cruz, CA

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

Job seekers looking for server roles near Santa Cruz will find attractive opportunities in nearby cities. Saratoga, CA, stands out with an average salary of $49,110 for servers. Nearby, San Jose offers a competitive average salary of $42,698. Candidates can also consider Los Gatos, CA, where the average salary reaches $41,519. Palo Alto, Campbell, and Watsonville also provide promising job markets with server positions. These cities present valuable options for those seeking better pay and professional growth.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Server jobs near Santa Cruz, CA, highlighting Saratoga, CA with the highest at $49,110 and Scotts Valley, CA with the lowest at $36,627.
  1. Saratoga, CA
    Average Salary: $49,110
    In Saratoga, working as a server means serving up not just meals, but an exceptional dining experience. With upscale restaurants like The French Laundry, servers have the chance to work in some of the finest dining settings.
    Find Server jobs in Saratoga, CA


  2. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $42,698
    Serving in San Jose offers a dynamic environment with plenty of opportunities. The tech boom brings a bustling food scene, with servers working in a variety of establishments, from casual cafes to high-end bistros.
    Find Server jobs in San Jose, CA


  3. Los Gatos, CA
    Average Salary: $41,519
    In Los Gatos, servers enjoy a lively community with a mix of family-friendly diners and upscale eateries. Working here means being part of a vibrant food culture in a charming town.
    Find Server jobs in Los Gatos, CA


  4. Palo Alto, CA
    Average Salary: $41,419
    Palo Alto servers work in an environment filled with innovation and creativity. The city's tech-savvy residents appreciate fine dining, giving servers a chance to shine in sophisticated restaurants.
    Find Server jobs in Palo Alto, CA


  5. Campbell, CA
    Average Salary: $41,075
    Campbell offers a cozy and friendly atmosphere for servers. The mix of family-owned eateries and trendy cafes provides a welcoming environment for both servers and diners.
    Find Server jobs in Campbell, CA


  6. Watsonville, CA
    Average Salary: $40,475
    Watsonville servers experience a mix of coastal charm and agricultural roots. Working here means serving fresh, local cuisine in a supportive community atmosphere.
    Find Server jobs in Watsonville, CA


  7. Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA
    Average Salary: $37,162
    In Carmel-by-the-Sea, servers enjoy a picturesque setting with a laid-back vibe. Working in this coastal town means serving tourists and locals in a serene, picturesque environment.
    Find Server jobs in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA


  8. Monterey, CA
    Average Salary: $37,095
    Monterey servers benefit from a rich maritime culture. The city's historic charm and vibrant food scene provide a unique backdrop for serving delicious meals to visitors and locals alike.
    Find Server jobs in Monterey, CA


  9. Pacific Grove, CA
    Average Salary: $36,649
    Pacific Grove offers a welcoming and picturesque environment for servers. Working here means providing excellent service in a coastal town known for its natural beauty and friendly community.
    Find Server jobs in Pacific Grove, CA


  10. Scotts Valley, CA
    Average Salary: $36,627
    In Scotts Valley, servers enjoy a serene and upscale dining experience. The town’s boutique atmosphere provides a peaceful setting for serving fine meals to discerning guests.
    Find Server jobs in Scotts Valley, CA

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

Job seekers looking for server roles in Santa Cruz, CA, can find good opportunities with Albertsons. This company offers an average salary of $37,871, providing a solid compensation package for server positions. Another top choice is Golden Gate Bell, LLC, which pays an average of $35,600 to its servers. This role also includes benefits that make it an attractive option for those in the hospitality industry.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Server jobs in Santa Cruz, CA, highlighting Albertsons with the highest at $37,871 and Chaminade Resort & Spa with the lowest at $34,258.
  1. Albertsons
    Average Salary: $37,871
    Albertsons offers competitive salaries for server positions. They have locations across Santa Cruz, providing ample opportunities. Servers here enjoy a friendly work environment and opportunities to learn and grow in the food service industry.


  2. Golden Gate Bell, LLC
    Average Salary: $35,600
    Golden Gate Bell, LLC provides good pay for its server roles. With its unique location at the Golden Gate Bridge, servers here enjoy a picturesque work setting. They value team effort and customer service, making it a rewarding place to work.


  3. Denny's
    Average Salary: $34,300
    Denny's offers a stable salary for servers. This well-known restaurant chain has locations throughout Santa Cruz. Servers benefit from a dynamic work environment and the chance to serve a diverse customer base.


  4. Chaminade Resort & Spa
    Average Salary: $34,258
    At Chaminade Resort & Spa, servers receive competitive pay. Located in Santa Cruz, the resort provides a serene and upscale setting. Servers here focus on delivering excellent service to guests, making every dining experience memorable.

Currently 14,001 Server job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Server in the US?

Learn what a Server does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Server today.
Position
Overview
Server
14,001 Job Openings