Server Server Salary in Iowa City, IA

Server Salary in Iowa City, IA

Updated on Apr 10, 2026
Position
City
Salary

How much does a Server make in Iowa City, IA?

The average salary for a Server is $31,536 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 $31,536 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 $2,628 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 $606 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, a server’s yearly salary can vary. The average salary stands at around $31,536. Servers earn different amounts based on experience and other factors. Some servers make as little as $16,000 a year, while others can earn up to $43,000 or more.

The most common salary range falls between $20,909 and $33,182. Many servers see their earnings grow as they gain more experience. Some top earners reach salaries of $40,545 or higher. The good news is that with dedication, servers have the chance to increase their income over time.

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?

Seeking a server job with higher pay near Iowa City? Look toward Ankeny, IA. This city offers the highest average salary at $44,663.0. Another great option is Des Moines, IA, with an average salary of $38,031.0. These cities provide attractive salary ranges for server positions.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Server jobs near Iowa City, IA, highlighting Ankeny, IA with the highest at $44,663 and Pella, IA with the lowest at $32,404.

  1. Ankeny, IA
    Average Salary: $44,663
    In Ankeny, working as a server offers a blend of community and career. Many local diners and cafes value friendly service, creating a welcoming atmosphere for patrons. With nearby corporate offices, servers often serve lunch meetings, adding a professional touch to their daily tasks.
    Find Server jobs in Ankeny, IA


  2. Des Moines, IA
    Average Salary: $38,031
    Des Moines presents a dynamic environment for servers. The city's vibrant dining scene includes upscale restaurants and casual eateries. Servers here often interact with a diverse clientele, including business professionals and tourists, making each shift unique.
    Find Server jobs in Des Moines, IA


  3. Clinton, IA
    Average Salary: $35,180
    In Clinton, being a server means embracing a close-knit community feel. Local diners and family-owned restaurants value personal connections with guests. Servers often know their regulars, creating a warm and familiar dining experience.
    Find Server jobs in Clinton, IA


  4. Fort Dodge, IA
    Average Salary: $33,672
    Fort Dodge offers a more laid-back setting for servers. The city’s dining spots focus on comfort and hospitality. Servers here enjoy a slower pace, allowing them to build strong relationships with customers in a friendly environment.
    Find Server jobs in Fort Dodge, IA


  5. Waterloo, IA
    Average Salary: $33,492
    Waterloo provides a mix of casual and formal dining opportunities for servers. The city’s universities and businesses mean servers often cater to students and professionals. The diverse dining options keep the job interesting and engaging.
    Find Server jobs in Waterloo, IA


  6. Muscatine, IA
    Average Salary: $32,861
    Muscatine's smaller size means servers often develop close relationships with customers. The town's charming restaurants and cafes value personal service. Servers here enjoy a community atmosphere, making each day enjoyable and fulfilling.
    Find Server jobs in Muscatine, IA


  7. Urbandale, IA
    Average Salary: $32,727
    Urbandale offers a suburban setting with a variety of dining options for servers. The city's dining scene includes family-friendly restaurants and more upscale venues. Servers in Urbandale benefit from a mix of casual and formal dining experiences.
    Find Server jobs in Urbandale, IA


  8. Coralville, IA
    Average Salary: $32,654
    Coralville provides a vibrant dining environment for servers. The city’s diverse restaurants and bars attract a mix of patrons. Servers here enjoy a dynamic atmosphere, with a variety of events and gatherings keeping the job lively and interesting.
    Find Server jobs in Coralville, IA


  9. Ames, IA
    Average Salary: $32,530
    In Ames, servers enjoy a lively and energetic environment. The city’s university presence means a constant flow of students and faculty. Servers often find themselves in bustling restaurants and bars, offering a fast-paced and engaging work setting.
    Find Server jobs in Ames, IA


  10. Pella, IA
    Average Salary: $32,404
    Pella offers a charming and relaxed setting for servers. The city’s focus on community and family-friendly dining makes for a pleasant work environment. Servers here value the welcoming and warm atmosphere, making each shift enjoyable and fulfilling.
    Find Server jobs in Pella, IA

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

Server jobs in Iowa City offer various options for those seeking a decent salary. Sam's Pizza, Bread Garden Market, and Carlos O'Kelly's top the list with average salaries around $35,000. These positions provide a good balance of earning potential and job opportunities within the community. Additionally, The University of Iowa and Panda Restaurant Group also offer competitive wages, averaging around $34,000. These companies not only provide stable income but also valuable experience 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 Schulte Hospitality Group with the lowest at $22,000.

  1. Sam's Pizza
    Average Salary: $36,000
    Sam’s Pizza offers competitive Server salaries. They have locations in Iowa City, Coralville, and North Liberty. This family-owned business prides itself on a warm, inviting atmosphere and high-quality food.


  2. Bread Garden Market
    Average Salary: $35,000
    Bread Garden Market provides a pleasant work environment with excellent benefits. They serve customers in Iowa City and North Liberty. This company values its servers and offers professional growth opportunities.


  3. Carlos O'Kelly's
    Average Salary: $35,000
    Carlos O'Kelly’s offers fair wages to its server team. Located in Iowa City, this lively spot emphasizes teamwork and customer satisfaction. Their environment is fun and dynamic, making it a great place to work.


  4. The University of Iowa
    Average Salary: $34,176
    The University of Iowa provides stable employment and benefits for its servers. They operate dining facilities across the campus, offering an enriching work experience. This institution values its staff and encourages career development.


  5. Panda Restaurant Group
    Average Salary: $33,500
    Panda Restaurant Group offers competitive Server salaries. They have locations in Iowa City and Coralville. This company emphasizes family-like teamwork and offers a supportive work environment.


  6. Franciscan Ministries
    Average Salary: $32,083
    Franciscan Ministries provides a nurturing work environment with fair compensation. They serve the community in Iowa City, emphasizing compassion and quality service. This organization values its employees and offers opportunities for growth.


  7. Oaknoll Retirement Residence
    Average Salary: $30,260
    Oaknoll Retirement Residence offers a rewarding environment for servers. They focus on serving their residents with care and quality service. This company values its team members and offers a supportive work environment.


  8. Buffalo Wild Wings
    Average Salary: $28,350
    Buffalo Wild Wings provides good wages and benefits to its servers. With locations in Iowa City and Coralville, they offer a fun, fast-paced atmosphere. This company values its team and offers opportunities for advancement.


  9. Aramark
    Average Salary: $27,650
    Aramark offers fair compensation for its servers. They have locations in Iowa City, Coralville, and North Liberty. This company values its employees and offers a supportive and professional work environment.


  10. Schulte Hospitality Group
    Average Salary: $22,000
    Schulte Hospitality Group provides competitive wages. They operate in various locations, including Iowa City. This company emphasizes customer service and offers a positive work environment.

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