How much does a Busser make?
Bussers play a key role in keeping a restaurant running smoothly. They help waiters serve food and drinks to customers. On average, bussers earn around $30,272 per year. This can vary based on experience and location.
Here’s a closer look at how much bussers can earn in different places:
- 10% earn around $9,380 or less.
- 25% earn between $13,414 and $21,481.
- 50% earn between $21,481 and $33,582.
- 75% earn between $25,515 and $41,649.
- 90% earn less than $45,683.
What are the highest paying cities for a Busser?

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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $43,753
Working in Seattle's bustling restaurant scene offers a chance to experience diverse culinary trends. The city's top establishments like The Pink Door and Canlis offer great opportunities for those looking to grow their career in the hospitality industry.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $43,457
San Francisco's vibrant food culture provides an enriching environment for those in the service industry. Restaurants like Zuni Cafe and Tartine Bakery create a dynamic workplace for anyone looking to learn and thrive in the bustling city.
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Boulder, CO
Average Salary: $40,569
In Boulder, working as a server helper means enjoying a laid-back atmosphere with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Restaurants like Anaya and County Cider offer a chance to be part of a community-focused dining experience.
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Stamford, CT
Average Salary: $39,960
Stamford's professional dining scene provides a polished environment for those seeking experience in upscale dining. With restaurants like The Mad Monk and L'amore Italian Kitchen, there are plenty of opportunities to excel in customer service.
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Yuma, AZ
Average Salary: $39,598
Yuma offers a relaxed setting with a warm community vibe. Working at local spots such as The Patio or The Mexican Grill allows for a slower pace while still providing a solid foundation in the service industry.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $39,340
Los Angeles' fast-paced dining scene offers countless opportunities to work with famous chefs and in trendy restaurants. With places like Gjelina and Bestia, there is always something new to learn and a chance to make a significant impact.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $39,197
Santa Rosa's dining scene balances sophistication with a personal touch. Restaurants like The Farm at Panoche and Bistango provide a friendly environment while offering the chance to work closely with talented chefs.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $38,777
San Jose's diverse culinary landscape offers a vibrant setting for those looking to learn and grow in the food service industry. With restaurants like Farmstead and La Ciccia, there are plenty of opportunities to gain valuable experience.
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Fargo, ND
Average Salary: $37,635
Fargo's friendly and welcoming atmosphere makes it a great place to work in the hospitality industry. With restaurants like The New Deal and Brick Haus, employees can enjoy a supportive environment while gaining essential skills.
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Manchester, NH
Average Salary: $37,048
Manchester's growing food scene provides a dynamic environment for those in the service industry. Places like 21 Temple St. and The Pour House offer a chance to be part of a community-focused dining experience with opportunities for career growth.
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What are the best companies a Busser can work for?

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COASTAL FLATS
Average Salary: $65,000
COASTAL FLATS provides exciting opportunities for Bussers. This company focuses on providing a high-quality dining experience across several locations. Bussers work in restaurants located in beautiful beachside settings, ensuring guests have a pleasant dining experience. Locations include San Diego, Santa Barbara, and Malibu.
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Rise Brands
Average Salary: $62,500
Rise Brands offers a dynamic environment for Bussers. The company operates multiple restaurants nationwide, focusing on creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Bussers help maintain a smooth dining experience, ensuring guests are well taken care of. Rise Brands locations include Chicago, New York, and Los Angeles.
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Lupe Tortilla
Average Salary: $60,000
Lupe Tortilla provides rewarding roles for Bussers. The company prides itself on its vibrant and fun dining experience. Bussers play a key role in keeping the dining area clean and the service flowing. Locations span across Texas, Florida, and California, offering diverse dining experiences.
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The Pasta House Co.
Average Salary: $50,000
The Pasta House Co. offers a range of opportunities for Bussers. This company is known for its delicious Italian cuisine and cozy ambiance. Bussers help manage the dining area, ensuring a pleasant dining experience for customers. Locations include Boston, Philadelphia, and Miami.
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Nataz Restaurant
Average Salary: $46,091
Nataz Restaurant provides a family-friendly environment for Bussers. The company focuses on providing great service and delicious food. Bussers assist in keeping the dining area tidy and ensure guests have everything they need. Locations are spread across California, offering a range of dining experiences.
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Ralphs
Average Salary: $46,055
Ralphs offers solid opportunities for Bussers. This company values creating a welcoming dining experience. Bussers ensure the dining area is clean and that guests are well-served. Locations include Denver, Phoenix, and Las Vegas.
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Premier Associates
Average Salary: $45,183
Premier Associates provides a professional setting for Bussers. The company focuses on excellent customer service. Bussers play an essential role in ensuring a smooth dining experience. Locations include Atlanta, Houston, and San Antonio.
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Colony Grill
Average Salary: $45,114
Colony Grill offers a friendly work environment for Bussers. The company is known for its casual dining experience. Bussers help maintain a clean and welcoming dining area. Locations include Minneapolis, Seattle, and Portland.
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Russ' Restaurant
Average Salary: $45,000
Russ' Restaurant provides a family-owned dining experience for Bussers. The company focuses on providing quality service and delicious meals. Bussers ensure the dining area is clean and guests are well taken care of. Locations include Cleveland, Detroit, and Indianapolis.
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Eurest
Average Salary: $44,310
Eurest offers a range of opportunities for Bussers. The company focuses on providing excellent service in a professional setting. Bussers help maintain a clean and welcoming dining area. Locations include London, Paris, and New York.
How to earn more as a Busser?
Being a busser can lead to more than just clearing tables and refilling water. It is an opportunity to increase earnings and gain valuable experience. A busser can work efficiently to earn more tips and possibly earn a higher wage over time. Here are some strategies to boost earnings in this role.
Firstly, always maintain a friendly demeanor. Engaging positively with customers can lead to bigger tips. Being polite and helpful will create a better dining experience for customers, making them more likely to reward the busser with a generous tip. Being knowledgeable about the menu can also help in upselling items and recommending dishes, further enhancing customer satisfaction.
Secondly, multitasking and efficiency are key. A busser should quickly clear tables and restock supplies without being asked. This allows waitstaff to focus more on serving customers and less on simple tasks. Efficiency often leads to better performance reviews, which can result in wage increases or promotions. Additionally, working during peak hours or special events can lead to higher tips due to the increased number of customers.
- Engage with customers positively and be helpful.
- Be knowledgeable about the menu and recommend dishes.
- Multitask efficiently to support the waitstaff.
- Work during peak hours and special events.
- Seek out opportunities for additional responsibilities.



