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For waitresses working in states that do not allow tip credits, such as California, the hourly wage is the same as the state’s minimum wage.
In California, as of January 1, 2024, the minimum wage is $16.00 per hour. In other states, waitress wages vary based on local laws, employer policies, and cost-of-living factors.
Comparison of Waitress Hourly Wages Without Tips by State
| State | Minimum Hourly Wage (No Tip Credit) |
|---|---|
| California | $16.00 |
| Washington | $16.28 |
| Oregon | $14.20 - $15.45 (varies by area) |
| New York | $15.00 (varies by city) |
| Texas | $7.25 (federal minimum) |
| Florida | $12.00 |
| Illinois | $14.00 |
| Pennsylvania | $7.25 (federal minimum) |
Note: Some states allow lower wages for tipped employees, so waitresses relying on tips may earn less hourly if tip credits apply.
Ways to Increase Your Earnings as a Waitress
While hourly wages vary, you can take steps to increase your overall earnings as a server:
- Upsell Smartly – Suggest appetizers, drinks, and desserts to increase check totals, which often results in higher tips.
- Personalize Service – Introduce yourself, engage in light conversation, and make customers feel valued.
- Use Positive Body Language – Smiling, maintaining eye contact, and being attentive can help increase your tips.
- Master Speed & Accuracy – Faster service means more tables served, increasing overall earnings.
- Work High-Traffic Shifts – Nights, weekends, and holiday shifts usually bring higher tips and more customers.
Understanding California's Minimum Wage Laws for Waitresses
Unlike many other states, California does not allow employers to use tip credits. This means that all waitresses in California must be paid at least $16.00 per hour, regardless of the tips they receive.
- Employers cannot deduct tips from wages – All tips belong to the employee.
- Overtime pay is based on the full hourly wage – If a waitress works more than 40 hours per week, overtime pay is calculated at 1.5 times their regular wage.
- Minimum wage varies by city – Some California cities have even higher wages:
- Los Angeles: $16.78 per hour
- San Francisco: $18.07 per hour
- San Jose: $17.55 per hour
Tip Pooling in California: What You Need to Know
California allows tip pooling, meaning tips are shared among eligible employees in the service chain. However, there are strict rules:
- Only certain employees can be included – Servers, bartenders, and bussers can share tips, but managers and owners cannot.
- Fair distribution is required – Common distribution rates include 80% for waitstaff, 15% for bussers, and 5% for bartenders.
Read Also: Can I Be Forced to Work on a Federal Holiday?
FAQs
1. Are There States Where Waitresses Make More Than the Federal Minimum Wage?
Yes, several states have minimum wages higher than the federal minimum, meaning waitresses in those states make more per hour without tips. Examples include California, Washington, and New York.
2. How Does the Cost of Living Affect a Waitress’s Hourly Wage Without Tips?
In areas with a higher cost of living, wages tend to be higher. For example, waitresses in cities like San Francisco or New York City may earn higher hourly wages without tips due to the higher cost of living.
3. Do Waitresses in All States Earn the Same Hourly Wage Without Tips?
No, wages vary by state and sometimes by city. Some states have laws that set higher minimum wages, while others adhere to the federal minimum wage.
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