How much does a Dining Room Server make?
A dining room server plays a key role in the restaurant industry. They help create a welcoming dining experience for guests. The average yearly salary for a dining room server is around $34,214. This salary can vary based on experience and location. Many servers also earn tips, which can add to their income.
The salary range for dining room servers can be quite broad. At the lower end, some servers earn around $20,900 per year. This is often the case for entry-level positions. As servers gain more experience, they can see their earnings rise. The top earners in this field can make up to $68,750 annually. This often happens with those who have moved into management roles or have worked in high-end restaurants.
What are the highest paying cities for a Dining Room Server?

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Charleston, SC
Average Salary: $53,515
In Charleston, serving tables offers a unique blend of hospitality and history. With its charming restaurants and vibrant food scene, servers enjoy a warm atmosphere. Notable places like the Charleston Grill and The Ordinary provide a chance to serve in elegant settings.
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Miami, FL
Average Salary: $51,868
Miami's dining scene is lively and diverse. Servers work in a fast-paced environment with a mix of tourists and locals. Restaurants like Joe's Stone Crab and The Breakers offer a chance to serve in upscale settings.
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Detroit, MI
Average Salary: $50,354
In Detroit, servers enjoy a mix of traditional and modern dining experiences. The city's unique food culture provides a dynamic work environment. Places like Selden Standard and Corktown offer a chance to serve in vibrant settings.
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Savannah, GA
Average Salary: $48,965
Savannah offers a charming and historic dining experience. Servers work in a relaxed yet elegant environment. Restaurants like The Collins Quarter and Mrs. Wilkes' Dining Room provide a chance to serve in beautiful settings.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $48,788
Boston's dining scene is rich with history and diversity. Servers work in a bustling environment with a mix of tourists and locals. Restaurants like Legal Sea Foods and The Butcher Shop offer a chance to serve in iconic settings.
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Houston, TX
Average Salary: $45,034
Houston's dining scene is vibrant and diverse. Servers work in a fast-paced environment with a variety of cuisines. Restaurants like Pappadeaux and The Palm offer a chance to serve in lively settings.
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Dallas, TX
Average Salary: $44,332
Dallas offers a dynamic dining experience with a mix of traditional and modern cuisine. Servers work in a bustling environment. Restaurants like The Grill and The Mansion on Turtle Creek provide a chance to serve in upscale settings.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $43,771
Seattle's dining scene is known for its fresh seafood and innovative cuisine. Servers work in a vibrant and eco-friendly environment. Restaurants like Canlis and The Pink Door offer a chance to serve in unique settings.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $41,752
San Jose offers a diverse dining experience with a mix of local and international cuisine. Servers work in a dynamic and tech-savvy environment. Restaurants like The Farm at 17th and The Old Siam offer a chance to serve in creative settings.
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Oklahoma City, OK
Average Salary: $41,586
Oklahoma City's dining scene is growing with a mix of traditional and modern cuisine. Servers work in a friendly and welcoming environment. Restaurants like The Butcher and the Boar and The 45 offer a chance to serve in vibrant settings.
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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: $54,234
Hyde Park Restaurant Group offers rewarding Dining Room Server jobs. They operate in Boston, Chicago, and New York. Employees enjoy a friendly work environment and opportunities for growth.
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Red Lobster
Average Salary: $43,881
Red Lobster provides a vibrant atmosphere for Dining Room Servers. They have locations across the United States. Servers here benefit from a supportive team and a focus on customer satisfaction.
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Merrill Gardens
Average Salary: $40,311
Merrill Gardens offers Dining Room Server positions with a focus on senior care. They operate in various locations in the Midwest. Employees enjoy a caring environment and the chance to make a difference in people's lives.
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1 Hotels
Average Salary: $37,677
1 Hotels provides upscale Dining Room Server jobs. They have properties in major cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Miami. Servers here work in a chic setting and enjoy a dynamic work environment.
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Sunset Country Club
Average Salary: $37,000
Sunset Country Club offers Dining Room Server positions with a focus on member service. They are located in California. Employees enjoy a prestigious work environment and the opportunity to serve a discerning clientele.
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Village Concepts
Average Salary: $35,361
Village Concepts provides Dining Room Server jobs in senior living communities. They operate in several states. Employees benefit from a supportive team and a focus on resident care.
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Benchmark Senior Living
Average Salary: $33,759
Benchmark Senior Living offers Dining Room Server positions in senior care facilities. They have locations across the country. Employees enjoy a caring environment and the chance to make a positive impact.
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Hamister Group, LLC
Average Salary: $33,000
Hamister Group, LLC provides Dining Room Server jobs in various settings. They operate in the Midwest. Employees benefit from a supportive team and a focus on quality service.
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Sunrise Senior Living
Average Salary: $32,465
Sunrise Senior Living offers Dining Room Server positions in senior care facilities. They have locations across the United States. Employees enjoy a caring environment and the chance to serve a special population.
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Providence Place Senior Living
Average Salary: $32,313
Providence Place Senior Living provides Dining Room Server jobs in senior care facilities. They operate in several states. Employees benefit from a supportive team and a focus on resident care.
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 warmly and remembering their preferences can lead to larger tips. Being knowledgeable about the menu and able to recommend dishes can also enhance the dining experience. Efficient and friendly service helps keep guests satisfied and coming back.
Additional tips for increasing earnings include staying busy and managing time well. Being proactive and anticipating guests' needs can prevent delays. Keeping the dining area clean and well-stocked ensures a smooth service flow. 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 pleasant environment for everyone.
Here are some factors to consider for earning more as a Dining Room Server:
- Provide excellent customer service.
- Be knowledgeable about the menu.
- Stay busy and manage time well.
- Keep the dining area clean and well-stocked.
- Build rapport with regular customers.