How much does a Dining Room Server make?
A Dining Room Server plays a key role in the food service industry. They work in restaurants, hotels, and other dining establishments. Their job involves taking orders, serving food, and ensuring customers have a good experience. The average yearly salary for a Dining Room Server is around $34,475. This can vary based on experience, location, and the type of establishment.
The salary for Dining Room Servers can range widely. The lowest 10% earn about $20,000 per year. The top 10% can earn over $70,000 annually. Most servers fall somewhere in the middle. Factors like tips and bonuses can also affect total earnings. Many servers find that their income increases with more experience and better customer service skills.
What are the highest paying cities for a Dining Room Server?

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Miami, FL
Average Salary: $53,691
Miami offers a vibrant dining scene with many upscale restaurants. Servers enjoy a lively atmosphere and the chance to work with diverse clientele. Notable establishments include The Breakers and Zuma Miami.
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Charleston, SC
Average Salary: $52,318
Charleston's dining culture is rich and welcoming. Servers can expect to serve in elegant settings with a focus on local cuisine. Popular spots include Husk and The Ordinary.
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Detroit, MI
Average Salary: $51,100
Detroit's dining scene is on the rise, with a mix of traditional and modern eateries. Servers can enjoy a dynamic work environment and the chance to be part of the city's culinary revival. Try out spots like Corktown or The Detroit Foundation.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $49,018
Boston offers a historic dining experience with a variety of restaurants. Servers can enjoy a mix of classic and contemporary dining. Notable places include Legal Sea Foods and O Ya.
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Savannah, GA
Average Salary: $47,652
Savannah's dining scene is known for its Southern charm and hospitality. Servers can expect to work in elegant settings with a focus on local flavors. Try out places like The Collins Quarter or Mrs. Wilkes' Dining Room.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $45,110
Seattle's dining scene is vibrant and diverse. Servers can enjoy a mix of seafood and farm-to-table cuisine. Popular spots include Canlis and The Pink Door.
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Dallas, TX
Average Salary: $43,183
Dallas offers a dynamic dining scene with a variety of restaurants. Servers can expect to work in a fast-paced environment with a focus on customer service. Notable places include The Grill and Pecan Lodge.
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Houston, TX
Average Salary: $42,518
Houston's dining scene is diverse and growing. Servers can enjoy a mix of Tex-Mex and international cuisine. Popular spots include Uchi and The Post Oak Grill.
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Oklahoma City, OK
Average Salary: $42,202
Oklahoma City's dining scene is vibrant and welcoming. Servers can enjoy a mix of local and regional cuisine. Try out spots like The Butcher and the Boar or The Kitchen.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $41,556
San Jose offers a diverse dining scene with a variety of restaurants. Servers can enjoy a mix of California cuisine and international flavors. Popular spots include Farmstead at Almaden and The French Laundry.
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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: $56,255
The Hyde Park Restaurant Group offers exciting opportunities for Dining Room Servers. They operate several restaurants in the Boston area, providing a dynamic and bustling environment. Servers here enjoy a supportive team and the chance to work in a prestigious dining setting.
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Red Lobster
Average Salary: $42,542
Red Lobster is a well-known seafood chain with locations across the United States. Dining Room Servers here benefit from a lively atmosphere and the chance to serve a wide variety of seafood dishes. The company offers training and opportunities for career growth.
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Merrill Gardens
Average Salary: $40,989
Merrill Gardens provides a unique dining experience in senior living communities. Dining Room Servers at Merrill Gardens enjoy a warm and welcoming environment. They serve meals to residents and their families, creating a sense of community and care.
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Pinehurst Resort
Average Salary: $39,000
Pinehurst Resort offers a serene and upscale dining experience. Dining Room Servers here work in a beautiful setting with a focus on excellent service. The resort is located in North Carolina and provides a chance to work in a prestigious and tranquil environment.
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1 Hotels
Average Salary: $38,634
1 Hotels is known for its modern and stylish design. Dining Room Servers here enjoy a chic and trendy atmosphere. They serve guests in a contemporary setting, providing a unique dining experience. The company operates in several major cities.
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Sunset Country Club
Average Salary: $37,000
Sunset Country Club offers a prestigious and exclusive dining experience. Dining Room Servers here work in a luxurious setting, serving members and guests. The club provides a chance to work in a high-end environment with a focus on exceptional service.
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Village Concepts
Average Salary: $35,778
Village Concepts operates senior living communities across the United States. Dining Room Servers here enjoy a supportive and caring environment. They serve meals to residents, creating a sense of community and comfort.
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Benchmark Senior Living
Average Salary: $34,059
Benchmark Senior Living provides a warm and welcoming environment for Dining Room Servers. They serve meals to residents in a caring and supportive setting. The company operates in several states, offering a chance to work in different locations.
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Dial Senior Living
Average Salary: $33,495
Dial Senior Living offers a friendly and supportive environment for Dining Room Servers. They serve meals to residents in a caring and attentive setting. The company operates in several states, providing a chance to work in different locations.
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The Arbor Company
Average Salary: $33,332
The Arbor Company provides a warm and welcoming environment for Dining Room Servers. They serve meals to residents in a caring and supportive setting. The company operates in several states, offering a chance to work in different locations.
How to earn more as a Dining Room Server?
A Dining Room Server can increase earnings by focusing on several key areas. Attention to detail and excellent customer service are essential. Greeting guests warmly and remembering their preferences can lead to larger tips. Being knowledgeable about the menu and able to recommend dishes can enhance the dining experience. Efficient and friendly service helps create a positive atmosphere, encouraging guests to return and refer others.
Additionally, a proactive approach to learning and improving can make a significant difference. Taking the initiative to learn about wine and other beverages can add value to the service. Staying organized and managing time well ensures smooth service flow, reducing wait times for guests. Building rapport with regular customers can lead to repeat business and higher tips. Lastly, maintaining a positive attitude and working well with the team creates a better environment for everyone, leading to better overall performance and higher earnings.
Here are five factors to consider for earning more as a Dining Room Server:
- Customer Service: Provide exceptional service to keep guests satisfied.
- Menu Knowledge: Be familiar with the menu and able to make recommendations.
- Proactive Learning: Continuously learn about beverages and service techniques.
- Time Management: Stay organized to ensure smooth service flow.
- Teamwork: Work well with colleagues to create a positive work environment.



