Server Server Salary in Ames, IA

Server Salary in Ames, IA

Updated on Oct 13, 2025
Position
City
Salary

How much does a Server make in Ames, IA?

The average salary for a Server is $32,374 per year in Ames, IA.
Yearly
Monthly
Weekly
Hourly
Graph depicting the yearly salary distribution for Server jobs in Ames, IA, showing an average salary of $32,374 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the monthly salary distribution for Server jobs in Ames, IA, showing an average salary of $2,698 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the weekly salary distribution for Server jobs in Ames, IA, showing an average salary of $623 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the hourly salary distribution for Server jobs in Ames, IA, showing an average salary of $16 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

In Ames, IA, servers earn a competitive salary that can vary based on experience and the specific restaurant. The average yearly salary for a server in Ames is around $32,374. This figure provides a good benchmark for those considering this career path. Servers often start at the lower end of the salary range, but with experience and skill, they can move up to higher pay brackets.

A server's salary can be influenced by several factors. These include the type of establishment, the location within Ames, and the number of tips received. Many servers also earn a base wage, which is supplemented by tips. This means that those who work in busy areas or have strong customer service skills can earn more. Additionally, servers who work during peak hours or on weekends may see higher earnings due to increased customer traffic.

Server jobs in Ames, IA
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What are the highest paying cities for a Server near Ames, IA?

Job seekers looking for server positions near Ames, IA, can find attractive opportunities in nearby cities. Johnston, IA, offers the highest average salary at $43,274. This makes it a prime location for those seeking better compensation. Ankeny, IA, follows closely with an average salary of $42,333, making it another excellent choice for job seekers in the area.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Server jobs near Ames, IA, highlighting Johnston, IA with the highest at $43,274 and Cedar Falls, IA with the lowest at $32,356.

  1. Johnston, IA
    Average Salary: $43,274
    In Johnston, working as a server offers a welcoming community atmosphere. Many local restaurants and cafes provide a friendly environment. Opportunities exist in well-known establishments like Cracker Barrel and Olive Garden.
    Find Server jobs in Johnston, IA


  2. Ankeny, IA
    Average Salary: $42,333
    Ankeny presents a vibrant setting for server positions. The city's growing population means a steady demand for dining services. Servers can find work in places like Texas Roadhouse and Chili's.
    Find Server jobs in Ankeny, IA


  3. Des Moines, IA
    Average Salary: $36,859
    Des Moines offers a dynamic job market for servers. The city's diverse dining scene includes many restaurants seeking skilled staff. Servers can work in popular spots like Red Lobster and Applebee's.
    Find Server jobs in Des Moines, IA


  4. Waterloo, IA
    Average Salary: $34,190
    Waterloo provides a supportive environment for server jobs. The city's community-focused culture makes it a great place to work. Servers can find positions in restaurants like Buffalo Wild Wings and TGI Fridays.
    Find Server jobs in Waterloo, IA


  5. Marshalltown, IA
    Average Salary: $33,902
    In Marshalltown, servers enjoy a close-knit community. The city's smaller size means a personal touch in service. Servers can work in local favorites like IHOP and Denny's.
    Find Server jobs in Marshalltown, IA


  6. Urbandale, IA
    Average Salary: $33,326
    Urbandale offers a lively atmosphere for server jobs. The city's diverse dining options provide many opportunities. Servers can find work in restaurants like Panera Bread and Starbucks.
    Find Server jobs in Urbandale, IA


  7. Fort Dodge, IA
    Average Salary: $32,859
    Fort Dodge provides a welcoming environment for server positions. The city's friendly community makes it a great place to work. Servers can find jobs in local eateries like McDonald's and Pizza Hut.
    Find Server jobs in Fort Dodge, IA


  8. Pleasant Hill, IA
    Average Salary: $32,780
    Pleasant Hill offers a serene setting for server jobs. The city's small-town charm provides a relaxed work environment. Servers can work in places like Arby's and Sonic.
    Find Server jobs in Pleasant Hill, IA


  9. West Des Moines, IA
    Average Salary: $32,590
    West Des Moines presents a bustling environment for server jobs. The city's growing economy means many dining options. Servers can find work in restaurants like Red Robin and The Cheesecake Factory.
    Find Server jobs in West Des Moines, IA


  10. Cedar Falls, IA
    Average Salary: $32,356
    Cedar Falls offers a vibrant community for server positions. The city's university presence adds to the dining scene. Servers can work in local spots like Chipotle and Panera Bread.
    Find Server jobs in Cedar Falls, IA

What are the best paying companies for a Server in Ames, IA?

WASABI AMES offers the highest average salary for server jobs in Ames, IA, at $57,667. This company provides a competitive pay package for its servers. Applebee's also offers a good salary, with an average of $40,000 for servers.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Server jobs in Ames, IA, highlighting WASABI AMES with the highest at $57,667 and Noodles & Company with the lowest at $24,250.

  1. WASABI AMES
    Average Salary: $57,667
    WASABI AMES offers competitive salaries for Server jobs. They provide a dynamic work environment and serve Japanese cuisine. Located in Ames, IA, they offer a unique dining experience.


  2. Applebee's
    Average Salary: $40,000
    Applebee's is known for its casual dining experience. They offer a friendly work environment and serve American cuisine. Located in Ames, IA, they provide a welcoming atmosphere for both employees and customers.


  3. Texas Roadhouse
    Average Salary: $32,640
    Texas Roadhouse offers a warm and inviting atmosphere. They serve classic American steakhouse cuisine. Located in Ames, IA, they provide a great place to work with a focus on teamwork and hospitality.


  4. Perkins Restaurants & Bakery
    Average Salary: $32,250
    Perkins Restaurants & Bakery offers a family-friendly environment. They serve American breakfast and lunch. Located in Ames, IA, they provide a supportive workplace with opportunities for growth.


  5. HuHot Mongolian Grill
    Average Salary: $32,211
    HuHot Mongolian Grill offers a unique dining experience with a focus on Asian cuisine. They provide a fast-paced work environment. Located in Ames, IA, they offer a fun and energetic workplace.


  6. Old Chicago Pizza
    Average Salary: $31,707
    Old Chicago Pizza offers a casual dining experience with a focus on pizza. They provide a friendly work environment. Located in Ames, IA, they offer a supportive workplace with opportunities for advancement.


  7. Chick-fil-A Restaurants
    Average Salary: $28,600
    Chick-fil-A Restaurants offer a welcoming and family-friendly atmosphere. They serve classic American fast food. Located in Ames, IA, they provide a supportive workplace with a focus on customer service.


  8. Buffalo Wild Wings
    Average Salary: $27,525
    Buffalo Wild Wings offers a fun and energetic work environment. They serve American sports bar cuisine. Located in Ames, IA, they provide a supportive workplace with opportunities for growth.


  9. SWEET CAROLINE'S
    Average Salary: $24,620
    SWEET CAROLINE'S offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. They serve American cuisine. Located in Ames, IA, they provide a supportive workplace with a focus on customer satisfaction.


  10. Noodles & Company
    Average Salary: $24,250
    Noodles & Company offers a casual dining experience with a focus on Asian cuisine. They provide a friendly work environment. Located in Ames, IA, they offer a supportive workplace with opportunities for advancement.

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