How much does a Dining Room Server make?
Working as a Dining Room Server can be a rewarding job. These professionals can expect to earn an average yearly salary of $34,324. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and the type of restaurant.
Dining Room Servers may find their earnings distributed across a range of salaries. The data shows that the majority earn between $28,727 and $37,455 per year. The top earners in this role can make more than $68,000 annually. This range provides a glimpse into the potential for growth and advancement in the field.
What are the highest paying cities for a Dining Room Server?

-
Charleston, SC
Average Salary: $56,659
In Charleston, serving guests in elegant restaurants enhances the city's charm. Famous restaurants like The Ordinary and Husk offer memorable dining experiences. Working here means engaging with both locals and tourists.
Find Dining Room Server jobs in Charleston, SC
-
Miami, FL
Average Salary: $54,916
Miami's vibrant atmosphere makes serving guests exciting. Popular spots like Joe’s Stone Crab and Komodo offer lively settings. You’ll enjoy a dynamic work environment with a mix of fast-paced and relaxed shifts.
Find Dining Room Server jobs in Miami, FL
-
Detroit, MI
Average Salary: $52,387
Detroit’s dining scene is known for its diverse flavors and unique dining experiences. Working in places like Selden Standard and Gratiot’s offers a chance to connect with a diverse clientele. The city’s food culture is rich and varied.
Find Dining Room Server jobs in Detroit, MI
-
Savannah, GA
Average Salary: $50,330
Savannah’s rich history and charm make it a great place to serve guests. Restaurants like The Olde Pink House and Mrs. Wilkes' Dining Room provide a blend of tradition and hospitality. Working here means being part of a lively community.
Find Dining Room Server jobs in Savannah, GA
-
Boston, MA
Average Salary: $46,681
Boston’s vibrant dining scene offers many opportunities. Working in famous places like Legal Sea Foods and Menton offers a mix of local and international cuisine. The city’s diverse dining culture keeps work interesting and engaging.
Find Dining Room Server jobs in Boston, MA
-
Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $46,136
Seattle’s unique dining culture is reflected in its food scene. Working in places like Canlis and Pike Place Market offers a chance to experience the city’s love for fresh, local ingredients. The environment is dynamic and creative.
Find Dining Room Server jobs in Seattle, WA
-
San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $45,087
San Francisco’s diverse dining options make it an exciting place to work. Serving at places like Boudin Bakery and Nopa provides exposure to different culinary styles. The city’s vibrant atmosphere keeps work lively and engaging.
Find Dining Room Server jobs in San Francisco, CA
-
Houston, TX
Average Salary: $42,630
Houston’s vibrant food scene offers many opportunities. Working in famous spots like Uchi and Pappadeaux offers a chance to experience the city’s rich culinary traditions. The environment is welcoming and dynamic.
Find Dining Room Server jobs in Houston, TX
-
Oklahoma City, OK
Average Salary: $42,411
Oklahoma City’s growing dining scene offers many opportunities. Working in places like The Griffin and The Butcher and the Boar’s Head provides a mix of local and innovative cuisine. The city’s friendly atmosphere makes work enjoyable.
Find Dining Room Server jobs in Oklahoma City, OK
-
San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $41,952
San Jose’s diverse dining options offer many opportunities. Working in places like Farmstead and The French Press provides a chance to experience the city’s vibrant food culture. The environment is welcoming and dynamic.
Find Dining Room Server jobs in San Jose, CA
What are the best companies a Dining Room Server can work for?

-
Merrill Gardens
Average Salary: $43,358
Merrill Gardens provides outstanding dining experiences to its residents and guests. With locations across several states, this company offers competitive salaries for Dining Room Server jobs. It prides itself on a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.
-
Indeed Flex
Average Salary: $39,727
Indeed Flex values its employees and offers a supportive environment for Dining Room Servers. This company operates in various cities nationwide, ensuring job opportunities in multiple locations.
-
Pinehurst Resort
Average Salary: $39,000
Pinehurst Resort is a top-tier destination for luxury dining. Located in North Carolina, it offers a vibrant atmosphere where Dining Room Servers can thrive. The resort is known for its excellent service and elegant dining experiences.
-
Sunset Country Club
Average Salary: $37,000
Sunset Country Club provides a prestigious dining environment for its members and guests. Located in Southern California, this company offers a competitive salary for Dining Room Servers. It is known for its high standards and elegant setting.
-
Village Concepts
Average Salary: $36,585
Village Concepts is committed to providing exceptional dining services in its communities. With locations across several states, this company values its Dining Room Servers and offers a comfortable work environment.
-
Hyatt
Average Salary: $34,440
Hyatt is a global hospitality leader offering a variety of dining experiences. Dining Room Servers at Hyatt can expect a competitive salary and a chance to work in renowned hotels worldwide.
-
Benchmark Senior Living
Average Salary: $34,386
Benchmark Senior Living offers a caring environment for its residents and guests. Dining Room Servers at this company enjoy a supportive work culture and the chance to make a difference in people's lives.
-
Marriott International
Average Salary: $33,731
Marriott International offers a range of dining experiences in its hotels worldwide. Dining Room Servers here can look forward to a competitive salary and the opportunity to work in diverse locations.
-
The Arbor Company
Average Salary: $33,079
The Arbor Company provides high-quality dining services in its communities. Dining Room Servers here benefit from a supportive environment and the chance to work in various locations across the country.
-
Four Seasons
Average Salary: $33,026
Four Seasons is renowned for its luxury hospitality. Dining Room Servers here enjoy a competitive salary and the chance to work in one of the world's leading luxury hotel brands.
How to earn more as a Dining Room Server?
To earn more as a Dining Room Server, consider focusing on a few key areas that can significantly boost income. Attention to detail and a strong work ethic can lead to higher tips and job satisfaction. Prioritize excellent customer service by greeting guests warmly, remembering their preferences, and attending to their needs promptly. Clear communication and a friendly demeanor can enhance the dining experience, encouraging guests to leave larger tips.
Building strong relationships with kitchen staff and other servers can also improve efficiency and job performance. By working smoothly with others, a server can handle larger tables and complete tasks more quickly. This leads to higher earnings over time. Additionally, mastering peak hours and learning to juggle multiple tables can increase the number of checks processed during a shift. Keeping track of special orders and managing table turnover effectively can also help in maximizing earnings.
Here are five factors that can help a Dining Room Server earn more:
- Customer Service Excellence: Always provide attentive and personalized service.
- Team Collaboration: Work well with kitchen staff and other servers.
- Time Management: Efficiently manage multiple tables and peak hours.
- Knowledge of Menu: Be familiar with the menu, specials, and ingredients.
- Upselling Skills: Suggest add-ons and upgrades to increase sales.



