Server Salary in Waterloo, IA

Updated on May 09, 2025
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City
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How much does a Server make in Waterloo, IA?

The average salary for a Server is $33,574 per year in Waterloo, IA.

In Waterloo, IA, a server can expect to earn a competitive salary. The average annual salary for a server in this area is around $33,574. This figure can vary based on experience and the specific restaurant or establishment. Servers often earn additional income through tips, which can significantly boost their earnings.

Factors that can influence a server's salary include the type of restaurant, the size of the establishment, and the local cost of living. Fine dining restaurants may offer higher wages compared to casual dining spots. Additionally, servers who work in busy areas or during peak hours may earn more due to higher tip potential. It's important for job seekers to consider these factors when evaluating job opportunities in the server role.

Server jobs in Waterloo, IA

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

Job seekers looking for server positions near Waterloo, IA, can find attractive opportunities in nearby cities. Des Moines, IA, stands out with the highest average salary for server jobs, offering a competitive edge. Urbandale, IA, and Cedar Rapids, IA, also provide good earning potential for those in the server role.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Server jobs near Waterloo, IA, highlighting Ankeny, IA with the highest at $37,568 and Cedar Rapids, IA with the lowest at $32,896.
  1. Ankeny, IA
    Average Salary: $37,568
    In Ankeny, working as a server offers a welcoming atmosphere with many local diners and cafes. Opportunities exist in family-owned restaurants and larger chains. The community's friendly nature makes it a great place to build a career.
    Find Server jobs in Ankeny, IA


  2. Waverly, IA
    Average Salary: $37,086
    Waverly provides a charming setting for server jobs, with a mix of cozy eateries and larger dining establishments. The city's smaller size means servers often get to know their regulars, creating a close-knit work environment.
    Find Server jobs in Waverly, IA


  3. North Liberty, IA
    Average Salary: $36,964
    North Liberty is known for its vibrant dining scene. Servers here enjoy working in a variety of settings, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants. The town's growing population offers plenty of opportunities for career growth.
    Find Server jobs in North Liberty, IA


  4. Des Moines, IA
    Average Salary: $36,662
    Des Moines offers a dynamic environment for servers, with a wide range of restaurants and a bustling nightlife. The city's diverse dining options provide servers with the chance to work in different styles and cuisines, enhancing their skills.
    Find Server jobs in Des Moines, IA


  5. Mason City, IA
    Average Salary: $35,102
    In Mason City, servers find a welcoming community with a mix of traditional and modern dining options. The city's smaller size allows for a more personal connection with customers, making it a rewarding place to work.
    Find Server jobs in Mason City, IA


  6. Marshalltown, IA
    Average Salary: $34,138
    Marshalltown provides a supportive environment for servers, with many local restaurants offering a family-friendly atmosphere. The city's close-knit community ensures that servers can build lasting relationships with their customers.
    Find Server jobs in Marshalltown, IA


  7. Urbandale, IA
    Average Salary: $33,368
    Urbandale offers a variety of dining options for servers, from casual eateries to fine dining establishments. The city's growing population and diverse community provide ample opportunities for career advancement.
    Find Server jobs in Urbandale, IA


  8. Fort Dodge, IA
    Average Salary: $33,272
    Fort Dodge presents a friendly environment for servers, with many local restaurants offering a warm and inviting atmosphere. The city's smaller size allows for a more personal connection with customers, making it a rewarding place to work.
    Find Server jobs in Fort Dodge, IA


  9. West Des Moines, IA
    Average Salary: $32,931
    West Des Moines offers a vibrant dining scene for servers, with a mix of upscale restaurants and casual eateries. The city's growing population and diverse community provide ample opportunities for career growth and development.
    Find Server jobs in West Des Moines, IA


  10. Cedar Rapids, IA
    Average Salary: $32,896
    Cedar Rapids provides a dynamic environment for servers, with a wide range of dining options and a bustling nightlife. The city's diverse dining scene offers servers the chance to work in different styles and cuisines, enhancing their skills.
    Find Server jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA

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

Job seekers in Waterloo, IA, looking for server positions can find good opportunities with several local restaurants. Olive Garden offers the highest average salary at $46,183. PSSI and Applebee's also provide competitive pay, with averages around $43,000 and $40,000, respectively. These companies offer attractive compensation packages for those in the food service industry.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Server jobs in Waterloo, IA, highlighting Olive Garden with the highest at $46,183 and Hardee's with the lowest at $23,667.
  1. Olive Garden
    Average Salary: $46,183
    Olive Garden offers rewarding Server jobs in Waterloo, IA. This Italian restaurant chain provides a warm and welcoming environment. Servers here enjoy a family-like atmosphere. Olive Garden operates in many locations across the United States.


  2. PSSI
    Average Salary: $43,000
    PSSI provides Server positions with a competitive salary in Waterloo, IA. This company focuses on food safety and sanitation. Servers work with a dedicated team to ensure high standards. PSSI operates in various locations nationwide.


  3. Applebee's
    Average Salary: $40,000
    Applebee's offers a dynamic environment for Servers in Waterloo, IA. This casual dining chain values teamwork and customer service. Servers here enjoy a lively and supportive workplace. Applebee's has many locations across the country.


  4. Carlos O'Kelly's
    Average Salary: $35,000
    Carlos O'Kelly's provides a unique experience for Servers in Waterloo, IA. This local favorite offers a cozy and friendly atmosphere. Servers here enjoy a close-knit community. Carlos O'Kelly's operates in the Waterloo area.


  5. Chick-fil-A Restaurants
    Average Salary: $31,950
    Chick-fil-A Restaurants offer a positive work environment for Servers in Waterloo, IA. This well-known chain emphasizes customer satisfaction and team spirit. Servers here enjoy a supportive and friendly atmosphere. Chick-fil-A operates in many locations nationwide.


  6. Village Inn
    Average Salary: $30,061
    Village Inn offers a welcoming environment for Servers in Waterloo, IA. This family-friendly restaurant chain values teamwork and service. Servers here enjoy a supportive and engaging workplace. Village Inn operates in various locations across the United States.


  7. Hardee's
    Average Salary: $23,667
    Hardee's provides Server positions with a competitive salary in Waterloo, IA. This fast-food chain offers a fast-paced and energetic environment. Servers here enjoy a dynamic and supportive workplace. Hardee's operates in many locations nationwide.

Currently 24,699 Server job openings, nationwide.

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Position
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Server
24,699 Job Openings