As of May 01, 2026, the average salary for a Restaurant Busser in the United States is $24,840 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $12.
However, a Restaurant Busser's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Restaurant Busser's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Restaurant Busser's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Levels | Salary |
|---|---|
| Entry Level Restaurant Busser | $24,478 |
| Intermediate Level Restaurant Busser | $24,840 |
| Senior Level Restaurant Busser | $25,418 |
| Specialist Level Restaurant Busser | $25,497 |
| Expert Level Restaurant Busser | $25,628 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Restaurant Bussers. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Customer Service | 12.38% |
| Credit Card | 2.31% |
| Food Delivery | 1.58% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Time Management
|
$26,827 |
8%
|
|
Container
|
$26,330 |
6%
|
|
Problem Solving
|
$25,834 |
4%
|
|
Initiative
|
$25,585 |
3%
|
|
Written Communication
|
$25,585 |
3%
|
|
Hospitality Industry
|
$25,585 |
3%
|
Understanding how a Restaurant Busser's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on May 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Restaurant Busser, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| Fast Food Restaurant Shift Supervisor | $34,800 | 40% |
| Gourmet Restaurant Manager - Casino | $59,500 | 140% |
| Culinary Services Supervisor | $40,400 | 63% |
| Food Service Operations Team Lead | $41,200 | 66% |
Salaries for a Restaurant Busser can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $30,803 in 2023 to around $30,299 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Restaurant Busser salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
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|
| 2023 | $30,803 |
| 2024 | $30,654 |
| 2025 | $30,299 |
| 2026 |
View More
|
| 2027 |
View More
|
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Compensation PlanningHere are companies hiring for Restaurant Busser and their salaries, click below for more details.
Ready to take the next step in your career? Browse thousands of current Restaurant Busser job openings on our job board. Use the search bar below to find your perfect match.
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As a busser, you can expect to earn between $21,180 and $26,710 annually, with a mid-salary of around $23,660. While this may vary by location and establishment, these figures provide a clearer picture of potential earnings in this role compared to the broader national average of $19,000 to $32,000.
The average salary for a Restaurant Busser ranges from $21,180 to $26,710 annually, with a mid-salary of $23,660. This translates to an hourly wage of approximately $10.18 to $12.83, depending on experience and location. Salary data is based on various sources and reflects the earnings of busser positions in the industry.
To become a successful busser, memorize table placements and learn to read guests' behavior. Carry only what you can handle, clear plates as courses arrive, and top off beverages or bring extra utensils. Thoroughly clean and reset each table after guests leave. As a busser, you can expect a salary ranging from $21,180 to $26,710, with a mid-salary of $23,660.
Bussers typically earn a salary ranging from $21,180 to $26,710, with a mid-salary of $23,660. Tips can significantly enhance their earnings. A common practice is for waitstaff to share 15% of their tips with bussers, which can vary based on the restaurant's policies. Flexibility and transparency in tip distribution are essential for fair compensation.
Bussing tables can yield an annual salary ranging from $21,180 to $26,710, with a mid-salary of approximately $23,660. This translates to a monthly pay between $1,765 and $2,226, with the average being around $1,972. Earnings can vary based on experience and location, but these figures provide a solid overview of potential income in this role.
The Busser/Dishwasher is responsible for keeping dishes clean and sanitized, as well as maintaining the dining room. Key responsibilities include washing, rinsing, and sanitizing all dishes, and ensuring dining room tables are clean and bussed. The salary for this position ranges from $21,180 to $26,710, with a mid-range salary of $23,660.
Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.
We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)
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