How much does a Server make in Santa Cruz, CA?
If you are considering a career as a server in Santa Cruz, CA, it helps to know what to expect in terms of salary. The average yearly salary for servers in this area is around $38,468. This means that most servers earn somewhere within this range, though some may earn more or less.
The salary range for servers in Santa Cruz, CA, varies. The lowest 10% of earners make about $33,000 per year, while the highest 10% make over $56,000 annually. Here is a breakdown of the salary percentiles:
- 10%: $33,000
- 25%: $35,153
- 50%: $39,458
- 75%: $48,069
- 90%: $56,680
What are the highest paying cities for a Server near Santa Cruz, CA?

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Big Sur, CA
Average Salary: $54,975
Big Sur offers a serene environment for restaurant servers. Many cafes and lodges rely on friendly staff to provide exceptional dining experiences. Prominent spots include Nepenthe Restaurant and Post Ranch Inn.
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Saratoga, CA
Average Salary: $46,636
Saratoga boasts a charming dining scene, with servers playing a key role in local eateries. The town's vibrant atmosphere makes for a lively work environment. Try working at popular spots like Henry's Big Bar for a fun experience.
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Palo Alto, CA
Average Salary: $42,431
Palo Alto's tech-savvy environment includes many restaurants and cafes. Servers here enjoy a dynamic workplace with diverse clientele. Consider working at popular places like Stanford Court or Greens Restaurant.
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Campbell, CA
Average Salary: $42,386
Campbell has a bustling dining scene with many local and chain restaurants. Servers enjoy a friendly atmosphere and diverse dining options. Look into positions at places like P.F. Chang's or The Old Fisherman.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $41,011
San Jose offers a vibrant food scene with opportunities in various restaurants and cafes. Servers can expect a busy and diverse work environment. Try working at establishments like the Old Oakland or the San Jose Chop House.
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Los Gatos, CA
Average Salary: $40,675
Los Gatos is known for its upscale dining options and charming cafes. Servers here enjoy a relaxed yet elegant environment. Consider opportunities at places like Chartreuse or the Los Gatos Bistro.
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Soquel, CA
Average Salary: $37,970
Soquel offers a coastal charm that enhances the dining experience. Servers here enjoy a peaceful yet lively work environment. Consider working at places like Fisherman's Wharf or the Soquel Inn.
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Monterey, CA
Average Salary: $37,610
Monterey's rich history and coastal location create a unique dining experience. Servers here enjoy a diverse clientele and scenic views. Try working at places like the Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa or Café del Rey.
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Scotts Valley, CA
Average Salary: $37,342
Scotts Valley has a cozy dining scene with many local favorites. Servers here enjoy a friendly and community-focused atmosphere. Consider positions at places like The Scoop or the Scotts Valley Cheese Company.
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Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA
Average Salary: $37,006
Carmel-by-the-Sea offers a picturesque setting with many elegant dining options. Servers here enjoy a refined and picturesque work environment. Look into positions at places like 17 Miles or the Crocodile Café.
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What are the best paying companies for a Server in Santa Cruz, CA?

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CommonSpirit Health Mountain Region
Average Salary: $53,554
CommonSpirit Health Mountain Region offers a range of Server roles across multiple locations in Santa Cruz, CA. They focus on providing quality service to patients and guests. Their servers work in various dining facilities within their healthcare campuses.
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Safeway
Average Salary: $38,400
Safeway provides Server positions in Santa Cruz, CA, within their retail grocery stores. These servers work in the deli and bakery departments, offering excellent customer service. They are part of a larger network that ensures fresh and quality food service.
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Albertsons Companies
Average Salary: $38,161
Albertsons Companies offers Server jobs in Santa Cruz, CA, within their grocery stores. These servers assist customers with food selection and preparation. The company is committed to providing a friendly and efficient service experience.
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Denny's
Average Salary: $34,500
Denny's, a popular restaurant chain, has Server roles in Santa Cruz, CA. Their servers ensure customers have a pleasant dining experience. They focus on providing prompt and courteous service at their locations.
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La Bahia Hotel & Spa
Average Salary: $34,500
La Bahia Hotel & Spa in Santa Cruz, CA, offers Server positions for those who enjoy providing hospitality services. Servers work in the hotel’s restaurants and assist with special events. They are part of a team dedicated to creating memorable guest experiences.
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Chaminade Resort & Spa
Average Salary: $33,229
Chaminade Resort & Spa offers Server jobs in Santa Cruz, CA, within its fine dining restaurant. Servers work to deliver exceptional service to guests. The resort provides a serene environment, and servers play a key role in enhancing the guest experience.
What are the best paying Server related jobs in Santa Cruz, CA?

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Service Manager
Average Salary: $62,922
Manages staff and oversees the operations of a restaurant or hospitality venue. Ensures a high level of customer satisfaction. Works closely with kitchen staff and servers to maintain smooth operations.
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Restaurant Supervisor
Average Salary: $52,970
Acts as a liaison between management and staff. Handles day-to-day operations and ensures all tasks are completed efficiently. Monitors staff performance and addresses any issues that arise.
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Reservations Agent
Average Salary: $49,030
Handles guest reservations for dining and accommodations. Manages bookings and coordinates seating arrangements. Provides excellent customer service to ensure a pleasant experience.
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Retail Sales Associate
Average Salary: $48,767
Assists customers in finding products and provides excellent service. Works in a fast-paced environment and ensures a positive shopping experience. Handles transactions and maintains a tidy sales floor.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $44,139
Prepares food to the highest standards in a fast-paced kitchen. Works alongside other cooks to ensure timely meal service. Follows recipes and maintains kitchen cleanliness and safety.
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Customer Service Representative
Average Salary: $43,777
Provides support and assistance to customers. Answers questions and resolves issues promptly. Works to improve customer satisfaction and loyalty.
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Barista
Average Salary: $39,283
Prepares and serves coffee and other beverages to customers. Maintains a clean and welcoming environment. Provides excellent service to ensure a positive experience.
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Concierge
Average Salary: $37,250
Offers personalized service to guests in hotels or other venues. Assists with reservations, transportation, and other needs. Aims to enhance the guest experience with attentive service.
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Server Assistant
Average Salary: $35,333
Supports servers by taking orders, serving food, and cleaning tables. Works in a busy environment and ensures a smooth dining experience. Communicates effectively with the kitchen staff.
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Busser
Average Salary: $34,127
Clears and resets tables between guests. Ensures a clean and organized dining area. Works closely with servers to maintain a high standard of service.
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