Server Server Salary in Iowa City, IA

Server Salary in Iowa City, IA

Updated on Sep 11, 2025
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How much does a Server make in Iowa City, IA?

The average salary for a Server is $31,836 per year in Iowa City, IA.
Yearly
Monthly
Weekly
Hourly
Graph depicting the yearly salary distribution for Server jobs in Iowa City, IA, showing an average salary of $31,836 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the monthly salary distribution for Server jobs in Iowa City, IA, showing an average salary of $2,653 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the weekly salary distribution for Server jobs in Iowa City, IA, showing an average salary of $612 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the hourly salary distribution for Server jobs in Iowa City, IA, showing an average salary of $15 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

In Iowa City, IA, servers earn a competitive salary. The average yearly salary for a server is around $31,836. This figure can vary based on experience, the type of establishment, and the local cost of living. Servers in this area often find that their earnings can increase with tips, which are a significant part of their income.

The salary range for servers in Iowa City spans from about $19,000 to $43,000 per year. The distribution of these salaries shows that most servers earn between $23,364 and $38,636 annually. This range provides a clear picture of what job seekers can expect in terms of compensation. Factors such as peak hours, customer volume, and the specific restaurant can also influence a server's earnings.

Server jobs in Iowa City, IA
View all Server jobs in Iowa City, IA

What are the highest paying cities for a Server near Iowa City, IA?

Job seekers looking for server positions near Iowa City, IA, can find higher salaries in nearby cities. Ankeny, IA, offers the highest average salary at $42,108. This makes it a prime location for those seeking better pay. Other cities like Des Moines, IA, and Clinton, IA, also provide competitive salaries, making them attractive options for job seekers.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Server jobs near Iowa City, IA, highlighting Ankeny, IA with the highest at $42,108 and Marion, IA with the lowest at $32,542.

  1. Ankeny, IA
    Average Salary: $42,108
    In Ankeny, working as a server offers a welcoming atmosphere with a variety of dining options. Many restaurants and cafes value friendly service, making it a great place to build a career. Companies like Cracker Barrel and Texas Roadhouse provide opportunities for growth.
    Find Server jobs in Ankeny, IA


  2. Des Moines, IA
    Average Salary: $37,393
    Des Moines provides a bustling environment for servers, with many popular restaurants and hotels. The city's diverse dining scene offers plenty of chances to learn and grow. Servers here often work in busy settings, which can be both challenging and rewarding.
    Find Server jobs in Des Moines, IA


  3. Clinton, IA
    Average Salary: $35,517
    Clinton offers a quieter pace for those who enjoy serving in a more relaxed setting. The local eateries and restaurants value good service and community. Working here can be a great way to build a solid foundation in the hospitality industry.
    Find Server jobs in Clinton, IA


  4. Waterloo, IA
    Average Salary: $34,224
    Waterloo has a vibrant food scene with many restaurants and cafes. Servers here enjoy a mix of local and international dining experiences. The city's colleges also bring a steady flow of students, adding to the dynamic work environment.
    Find Server jobs in Waterloo, IA


  5. Pella, IA
    Average Salary: $33,634
    Pella offers a charming environment for servers, with many family-owned restaurants and cafes. The community-focused atmosphere makes it a pleasant place to work. Servers here often enjoy a friendly and supportive work environment.
    Find Server jobs in Pella, IA


  6. Urbandale, IA
    Average Salary: $33,563
    Urbandale provides a mix of casual and upscale dining options for servers. The city's growing population brings a steady stream of customers. Working here can offer a variety of experiences and opportunities for career advancement.
    Find Server jobs in Urbandale, IA


  7. Fort Dodge, IA
    Average Salary: $33,063
    Fort Dodge offers a more laid-back setting for servers, with many local diners and family-style restaurants. The slower pace can be ideal for those who enjoy a relaxed work environment. Servers here often build close relationships with customers.
    Find Server jobs in Fort Dodge, IA


  8. West Des Moines, IA
    Average Salary: $32,885
    West Des Moines has a thriving dining scene with many high-end restaurants and cafes. Servers here often work in elegant settings and serve a diverse clientele. The city's focus on quality dining makes it an exciting place to work.
    Find Server jobs in West Des Moines, IA


  9. Muscatine, IA
    Average Salary: $32,658
    Muscatine offers a mix of traditional and modern dining experiences for servers. The city's historic charm adds to the unique atmosphere of the restaurants. Working here can be both enjoyable and fulfilling.
    Find Server jobs in Muscatine, IA


  10. Marion, IA
    Average Salary: $32,542
    Marion provides a friendly and welcoming environment for servers. The local restaurants and cafes value good service and community. Working here can be a great way to build a solid foundation in the hospitality industry.
    Find Server jobs in Marion, IA

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

Job seekers looking for server positions in Iowa City, IA, can find competitive salaries at several top companies. Sam's Pizza, Bread Garden Market, and Carlos O'Kelly's offer average salaries around $35,000. The University of Iowa and Panda Restaurant Group also provide attractive compensation packages, with average salaries of $34,176 and $33,800, respectively. These companies provide a good opportunity for those seeking a stable income in the hospitality industry.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Server jobs in Iowa City, IA, highlighting Sam's Pizza with the highest at $36,000 and Noodles & Company with the lowest at $24,167.

  1. Sam's Pizza
    Average Salary: $36,000
    Sam's Pizza offers a welcoming environment for server jobs in Iowa City. They focus on providing excellent service and a family-friendly atmosphere. Sam's Pizza operates multiple locations in Iowa City.


  2. Bread Garden Market
    Average Salary: $35,000
    Bread Garden Market provides a unique dining experience with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Servers at Bread Garden Market enjoy a supportive work environment. The company operates several locations in Iowa City.


  3. Carlos O'Kelly's
    Average Salary: $35,000
    Carlos O'Kelly's is a popular spot for live music and delicious food. Servers at Carlos O'Kelly's work in a lively and energetic setting. The company operates multiple locations in Iowa City.


  4. The University of Iowa
    Average Salary: $34,176
    The University of Iowa offers a dynamic work environment for servers. They provide opportunities to interact with students and faculty. The university operates various dining facilities in Iowa City.


  5. Panda Restaurant Group
    Average Salary: $33,800
    Panda Restaurant Group is known for its diverse menu and vibrant atmosphere. Servers at Panda Restaurant Group enjoy a fast-paced and engaging work environment. The company operates multiple locations in Iowa City.


  6. Oakknoll Retirement Residence
    Average Salary: $30,083
    Oakknoll Retirement Residence provides a peaceful and caring environment for servers. They focus on delivering excellent service to residents. The residence operates in Iowa City.


  7. Buffalo Wild Wings
    Average Salary: $28,350
    Buffalo Wild Wings offers a fun and energetic atmosphere for server jobs. They focus on providing a great experience for sports fans. The company operates multiple locations in Iowa City.


  8. Aramark
    Average Salary: $27,650
    Aramark provides a variety of opportunities for servers in different settings. They focus on delivering high-quality service. The company operates in various locations in Iowa City.


  9. Noodles & Company
    Average Salary: $24,167
    Noodles & Company offers a casual and friendly environment for server jobs. They focus on providing a great dining experience. The company operates multiple locations in Iowa City.

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