How much does a Dishwasher make?
Dishwasher positions are available in many restaurants and other food service places. They can earn a solid income while helping to keep the kitchen running smoothly. The average yearly salary for a Dishwasher is $31,765. This can vary based on a few factors.
Here are some key points about Dishwasher salaries:
- The lowest 10% earn about $21,500 a year.
- The highest 10% earn around $43,290 or more per year.
- Most Dishwashers fall in the middle range, earning between $25,000 and $35,000 per year.
A Dishwasher's experience, the type of restaurant, and where it is located can affect their pay. Some places may offer bonuses or tips, which can also add to the total income.
What are the highest paying cities for a Dishwasher?

-
Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $43,690
In Seattle, you'll find a vibrant food scene with plenty of opportunities to work in various eateries and hotels. With its love for fresh seafood, restaurants often seek reliable dishwashers. Companies like Seattle Center House and Delany's are known for offering good positions.
Find Dishwasher jobs in Seattle, WA
-
San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $42,389
San Francisco's bustling restaurant industry offers many options for dishwashers. The city’s diverse culinary culture means there's high demand for skilled dishwashers. Notable places like Fisherman's Wharf and Union Square provide various job openings.
Find Dishwasher jobs in San Francisco, CA
-
San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $41,233
In San Jose, the tech-savvy environment pairs well with the lively food industry. Many local restaurants and cafes seek hardworking dishwashers. Companies such as The French Laundry and local family-owned eateries have numerous openings.
Find Dishwasher jobs in San Jose, CA
-
Boston, MA
Average Salary: $39,017
Boston offers a rich culinary tradition with many restaurants and bars looking for dishwashers. The city’s historic charm meets modern demands for clean and efficient kitchen staff. Popular spots like Legal Sea Foods and local bistros have roles available.
Find Dishwasher jobs in Boston, MA
-
Denver, CO
Average Salary: $38,878
Denver's growing food scene presents various opportunities for dishwashers. The city's lively atmosphere brings many eateries seeking dependable kitchen help. Establishments like The Aviary and local cafes provide many job openings.
Find Dishwasher jobs in Denver, CO
-
Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $38,690
Los Angeles offers a dynamic food landscape with many chances for dishwashers. From Hollywood to Downtown LA, there's a constant need for skilled dishwashers. Notable companies like Musso & Frank Grill and local chain restaurants provide numerous positions.
Find Dishwasher jobs in Los Angeles, CA
-
Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $37,751
Santa Rosa features a charming dining scene with plenty of opportunities for dishwashers. The city’s wine country vibe pairs well with its many restaurants. Local establishments and eateries offer various roles.
Find Dishwasher jobs in Santa Rosa, CA
-
Boulder, CO
Average Salary: $37,524
Boulder’s vibrant community and healthy lifestyle create a need for diligent dishwashers. The city’s numerous cafes and restaurants provide many job openings. Places like The Laughing Planet and other local spots have roles available.
Find Dishwasher jobs in Boulder, CO
-
Washington, DC
Average Salary: $37,181
Washington, DC, offers a mix of high-end dining and casual eateries that need dishwashers. The city’s political scene brings a steady stream of customers, ensuring many opportunities. Restaurants in areas like Georgetown and Downtown have various positions.
Find Dishwasher jobs in Washington, DC
-
San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $37,042
San Diego’s sunny climate and coastal charm attract many food lovers, creating ample opportunities for dishwashers. The city's diverse restaurants, from beachside cafes to upscale dining, offer numerous roles. Notable places include Old Town’s eateries and local chains.
Find Dishwasher jobs in San Diego, CA
What are the best companies a Dishwasher can work for?

-
American Cruise Lines
Average Salary: $62,400
American Cruise Lines offers rewarding Dishwasher jobs on their riverboats. They provide a unique work environment, with positions available in various cities along the Mississippi River, including New Orleans, Memphis, and St. Louis.
-
Marriott Vacations Worldwide
Average Salary: $51,515
Marriott Vacations Worldwide provides excellent Dishwasher roles across their resorts nationwide. Opportunities span from coastal locations like Florida and California to urban spots like Chicago and Las Vegas, offering diverse working environments.
-
Hyatt Vacation Ownership
Average Salary: $46,645
Hyatt Vacation Ownership offers stable Dishwasher positions in their luxury resorts, with locations in popular destinations such as Orlando, Maui, and the Maldives. These roles come with the benefit of working in stunning settings.
-
Northstar Cafe
Average Salary: $45,632
Northstar Cafe provides dynamic Dishwasher jobs in their mountain lodges. They have locations in California and Colorado, offering scenic work environments and opportunities for seasonal employment.
-
Legal Sea Foods
Average Salary: $45,608
Legal Sea Foods offers experienced Dishwasher positions in their coastal restaurants. With locations in Boston, New York, and Miami, they provide a lively work atmosphere in vibrant food hubs.
-
Dartmouth College
Average Salary: $44,841
Dartmouth College provides Dishwasher jobs within its campus dining facilities. Positions are available in Hanover, New Hampshire, offering a prestigious work environment in an academic setting.
-
Soho House & Co.
Average Salary: $44,465
Soho House & Co. offers Dishwasher roles in their exclusive clubs and restaurants. They have locations in cities such as London, New York, and Los Angeles, providing a chic and trendy work environment.
-
Do & Co
Average Salary: $44,265
Do & Co provides Dishwasher jobs in their luxury dining venues. They operate in cities like Vienna, Zurich, and Berlin, offering a high-end work atmosphere in top-tier restaurants.
-
The Stand Restaurants
Average Salary: $43,913
The Stand Restaurants offers Dishwasher positions in their trendy urban eateries. Locations span cities like Chicago, Seattle, and Portland, providing a vibrant and fast-paced work environment.
-
Din Tai Fung
Average Salary: $43,469
Din Tai Fung offers Dishwasher jobs in their popular Asian restaurants. With locations in cities such as New York, San Francisco, and Taipei, they provide a unique and exciting work environment.
How to earn more as a Dishwasher?
Increasing earnings as a dishwasher often requires dedication and a few strategic moves. By taking specific steps, one can enhance their salary and career prospects. Improving speed and efficiency in washing dishes can lead to faster service times, allowing the restaurant to seat more customers and increase tips. Training in advanced techniques can also open up opportunities for promotions. Additionally, a positive attitude and strong communication skills can foster better relationships with colleagues and management, potentially leading to raises or bonuses.
Networking within the industry can provide insights into higher-paying positions and new opportunities. Joining professional organizations or attending industry events can help dishwashers connect with others in the field. Seeking positions in higher-end restaurants or those with a strong reputation can also lead to better wages. Lastly, gaining certifications or additional skills, such as food safety management or kitchen management, can make a dishwasher more valuable to employers, resulting in higher pay. Below are some factors to consider:
- Speed and Efficiency: Increase speed and efficiency to handle more dishes and improve service times.
- Advanced Techniques: Learn advanced dishwashing techniques to improve performance and potentially earn promotions.
- Networking: Build connections within the industry to discover higher-paying opportunities.
- Professional Development: Gain certifications or additional skills to become more valuable to employers.
- Positive Attitude: Maintain a positive attitude and good communication skills to foster better relationships with colleagues and management.



