Dining Room Server Salaries
How much does a Dining Room Server make?
A Dining Room Server plays a key role in the restaurant industry. This job involves serving guests, taking orders, and ensuring a pleasant dining experience. The average salary for a Dining Room Server can vary. It often starts at around $22,000 for those just starting out. With experience, this can rise to about $62,591 per year.
Several factors can affect a Dining Room Server's salary. These include the type of restaurant, location, and tips. Servers in busy urban areas or high-end restaurants often earn more than those in smaller towns. Tips can also add a significant amount to the salary. This makes the job rewarding for those who provide excellent service. The potential for growth and higher earnings makes this a viable career choice for many.
What are the highest paying cities for a Dining Room Server?

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Charleston, SC
Average Salary: $60,198
In Charleston, serving tables offers a unique blend of hospitality and history. With vibrant tourism, servers work in lively restaurants. Many enjoy serving at renowned spots like The Ordinary or Husk.
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Savannah, GA
Average Salary: $52,664
Savannah provides a charming atmosphere for those who serve. The city's historic charm attracts many visitors. Servers often work in elegant places like The Collins Quarter or The Olde Pink House.
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Detroit, MI
Average Salary: $50,964
Detroit's dining scene is diverse and bustling. Servers find work in a variety of restaurants, from casual spots to upscale dining. Popular places include The Detroit Institute of Arts Café and Corktown.
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Miami, FL
Average Salary: $49,110
Miami's vibrant culture makes serving tables exciting. The city's nightlife and tourism draw many guests. Servers often work in lively restaurants like Zuma or The Breakers.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $48,011
Boston offers a dynamic environment for servers. The city's rich history and diverse dining scene provide many opportunities. Servers can find work at places like Legal Sea Foods or The Butcher Shop.
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Houston, TX
Average Salary: $46,612
Houston's diverse food scene offers a lot of options for servers. The city's growth means many new restaurants are opening. Servers often work at places like Uchi or The Post Oak.
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Dallas, TX
Average Salary: $45,574
Dallas provides a lively atmosphere for those who serve. The city's growing dining scene offers many opportunities. Servers can find work at popular spots like The Grill or The Driskill.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $42,367
Seattle's unique dining culture offers a fresh experience for servers. The city's love for coffee and seafood provides many opportunities. Servers often work at places like Canlis or The Pink Door.
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Oklahoma City, OK
Average Salary: $42,146
Oklahoma City offers a welcoming environment for servers. The city's growing food scene provides many opportunities. Servers can find work at places like The Butcher and the Boar or The 405.
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Wichita, KS
Average Salary: $42,000
Wichita provides a friendly atmosphere for those who serve. The city's diverse dining options offer many opportunities. Servers can find work at places like The Butchery or The Fig & Olive.
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What are the best companies a Dining Room Server can work for?

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Hyde Park Restaurant Group
Average Salary: $55,275
Hyde Park Restaurant Group offers rewarding Dining Room Server jobs. They operate in Chicago, IL, and provide a dynamic environment. Servers here enjoy competitive pay and opportunities for growth.
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Red Lobster
Average Salary: $45,306
Red Lobster is a well-known seafood chain. They offer Dining Room Server positions across the United States. Servers here benefit from a supportive team and a steady flow of customers.
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Copper Canyon Grill
Average Salary: $43,018
Copper Canyon Grill provides a unique dining experience. They offer Dining Room Server jobs in Scottsdale, AZ. Servers here enjoy a friendly atmosphere and the chance to work in a high-end setting.
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Indeed Flex
Average Salary: $39,727
Indeed Flex offers flexible Dining Room Server jobs. They operate in various locations across the country. Servers here can choose from a variety of shifts and enjoy competitive pay.
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Merrill Gardens
Average Salary: $38,135
Merrill Gardens provides Dining Room Server jobs in senior living communities. They operate in multiple states. Servers here enjoy a stable work environment and the chance to serve a diverse clientele.
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1 Hotels
Average Salary: $37,788
1 Hotels offers upscale Dining Room Server jobs. They operate in major cities like New York, NY, and Los Angeles, CA. Servers here benefit from a chic atmosphere and the chance to work in a trendy setting.
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Woodfield Country Club
Average Salary: $35,765
Woodfield Country Club offers Dining Room Server jobs in Schaumburg, IL. They provide a prestigious environment for servers. Servers here enjoy a steady flow of members and guests.
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Croasdaile Country Club
Average Salary: $35,182
Croasdaile Country Club offers Dining Room Server jobs in Cary, NC. They provide a welcoming environment for servers. Servers here enjoy a steady flow of members and guests.
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Fountain View Village
Average Salary: $35,154
Fountain View Village offers Dining Room Server jobs in Charlotte, NC. They provide a supportive environment for servers. Servers here enjoy a steady flow of residents and guests.
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Village Concepts
Average Salary: $34,495
Village Concepts offers Dining Room Server jobs in various locations. They provide a supportive environment for servers. Servers here enjoy a steady flow of residents and guests.
How to earn more as a Dining Room Server?
A Dining Room Server can increase their earnings by focusing on several key areas. Attention to detail and excellent customer service are essential. Greeting guests with a warm smile and promptly addressing their needs can lead to higher tips. Being knowledgeable about the menu and able to recommend dishes can also enhance the dining experience.
Building a rapport with regular customers can lead to repeat business and larger tips. Staying organized and efficient during busy shifts helps maintain a smooth flow, which can improve overall service and customer satisfaction. Additionally, maintaining a positive attitude and working well with the team can create a better work environment, which can lead to better tips and job satisfaction. Here are some factors to consider:
- Greet guests warmly and remember their preferences.
- Provide knowledgeable menu recommendations.
- Build relationships with regular customers.
- Stay organized and efficient during busy shifts.
- Maintain a positive attitude and work well with the team.