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Salary

How much does a Server make?

The average salary for a Server is $32,738 per year in the US.

Servers play a key role in the hospitality industry. They interact with customers and ensure a smooth dining experience. The average yearly salary for a server is around $32,738. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and the type of establishment.


Servers often earn tips, which can significantly boost their income. The salary distribution shows that many servers earn between $24,000 and $32,000 annually. Those with more experience or in high-demand areas may earn more. For instance, servers in busy urban restaurants or high-end establishments often see higher earnings. Additionally, servers who work in peak hours or during special events can earn extra income through tips.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Server?

Job seekers looking for server positions can find some of the highest paying cities in Boston, MA, and Seattle, WA. These cities offer competitive salaries that can help boost your career. San Francisco, CA, and San Jose, CA, also provide attractive compensation packages for server roles.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Server jobs, highlighting Boston, MA with the highest at $46,232 and Los Angeles, CA with the lowest at $39,843.
  1. Boston, MA
    Average Salary: $46,232
    In Boston, working as a server means being part of a vibrant dining scene. With many renowned restaurants, servers can enjoy a dynamic work environment. Opportunities exist in both upscale dining and casual eateries.
    Find Server jobs in Boston, MA


  2. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $44,348
    Seattle offers a unique dining experience for servers. The city's love for coffee and seafood creates a lively atmosphere. Servers can work in trendy cafes or elegant seafood restaurants, enjoying the city's diverse culinary scene.
    Find Server jobs in Seattle, WA


  3. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $42,955
    San Francisco's servers enjoy a bustling dining scene with a mix of tech and tradition. Working in the city means serving in chic restaurants or trendy cafes. The diverse food culture offers a variety of experiences.
    Find Server jobs in San Francisco, CA


  4. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $42,716
    In San Jose, servers find themselves in a tech-driven dining environment. The city's tech companies mean a steady flow of business. Servers can work in modern restaurants or tech-centric eateries, enjoying a dynamic work setting.
    Find Server jobs in San Jose, CA


  5. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $41,829
    Washington, DC, offers servers a chance to work in a political and cultural hub. The city's diverse dining scene includes everything from fine dining to casual eateries. Servers can enjoy a vibrant and varied work environment.
    Find Server jobs in Washington, DC


  6. Charleston, SC
    Average Salary: $41,552
    Charleston provides a charming setting for servers. The city's rich history and Southern hospitality create a unique dining experience. Servers can work in elegant restaurants or cozy cafes, enjoying the city's warm atmosphere.
    Find Server jobs in Charleston, SC


  7. Stamford, CT
    Average Salary: $40,708
    Stamford offers a professional dining scene for servers. The city's corporate environment means a steady flow of business. Servers can work in upscale restaurants or corporate dining facilities, enjoying a stable and professional work setting.
    Find Server jobs in Stamford, CT


  8. Worcester, MA
    Average Salary: $40,523
    In Worcester, servers find a welcoming and diverse dining scene. The city offers a mix of traditional and modern restaurants. Servers can enjoy a friendly work environment with plenty of opportunities to grow.
    Find Server jobs in Worcester, MA


  9. Providence, RI
    Average Salary: $39,941
    Providence offers a vibrant and diverse dining scene for servers. The city's rich history and cultural diversity create a unique work environment. Servers can enjoy working in a variety of restaurants, from traditional to modern.
    Find Server jobs in Providence, RI


  10. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $39,843
    Los Angeles provides a dynamic and diverse dining scene for servers. The city's entertainment industry means a steady flow of business. Servers can work in trendy restaurants or iconic eateries, enjoying a vibrant and varied work environment.
    Find Server jobs in Los Angeles, CA

What are the best companies a Server can work for?

Qualcomm offers the highest average salary for server jobs, making it a top choice for those in the field. Legal Sea Foods and Pappas Restaurants also provide competitive pay, with average salaries above $80,000. Hillstone Restaurant Group and The Mark Hotel follow closely, offering salaries around $79,000.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Server jobs, highlighting Qualcomm with the highest at $278,910 and Lettuce Entertain You with the lowest at $67,356.
  1. Qualcomm
    Average Salary: $278,910
    Qualcomm offers competitive salaries for Server jobs. They have locations in many cities around the world. Qualcomm focuses on wireless technology and innovation. Servers here work with guests in a fast-paced environment.


  2. Legal Sea Foods
    Average Salary: $85,080
    Legal Sea Foods provides a good salary for Server jobs. They operate in several locations along the East Coast. Servers here enjoy a family-friendly atmosphere and fresh seafood options.


  3. Pappas Restaurants
    Average Salary: $80,473
    Pappas Restaurants offers a solid salary for Server jobs. They have locations in Texas and Louisiana. Servers here work in a lively setting with a focus on Greek cuisine.


  4. Hillstone Restaurant Group
    Average Salary: $79,485
    Hillstone Restaurant Group offers a good salary for Server jobs. They operate in multiple states across the U.S. Servers here enjoy a casual dining experience with a variety of American dishes.


  5. The Mark Hotel
    Average Salary: $78,000
    The Mark Hotel offers a competitive salary for Server jobs. Located in New York City, servers here work in a luxurious setting with high-end dining options.


  6. Saints + Council
    Average Salary: $77,400
    Saints + Council offers a good salary for Server jobs. They have locations in Chicago. Servers here enjoy a trendy atmosphere with a focus on American cuisine.


  7. The Cake Bake Shop
    Average Salary: $75,167
    The Cake Bake Shop offers a fair salary for Server jobs. They have locations in several states. Servers here work in a cozy setting with a variety of baked goods and beverages.


  8. Seoul Kitchen
    Average Salary: $71,286
    Seoul Kitchen offers a decent salary for Server jobs. They have locations in California and Nevada. Servers here enjoy a vibrant atmosphere with a focus on Korean cuisine.


  9. Maggiano's Little Italy
    Average Salary: $68,378
    Maggiano's Little Italy offers a good salary for Server jobs. They have locations in multiple states. Servers here work in a family-friendly setting with Italian dishes.


  10. Lettuce Entertain You
    Average Salary: $67,356
    Lettuce Entertain You offers a fair salary for Server jobs. They have locations in Chicago and New York. Servers here enjoy a casual dining experience with a variety of American dishes.

How to earn more as a Server?

Working as a server can be a rewarding job, especially when you know how to maximize your earnings. Servers often rely on tips, so understanding how to increase them can make a big difference. One way to earn more is by providing excellent service. This means being attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable about the menu. Customers appreciate when servers remember their preferences and offer recommendations. Another factor is being proactive. Servers who take the initiative to check on tables frequently and refill drinks before they run out can keep customers happy and coming back for more.

Improving tips also involves mastering the art of upselling. Servers can suggest higher-end items or pairings that complement the customer's meal. This not only enhances the dining experience but also increases the bill amount. Additionally, maintaining a clean and welcoming restaurant environment encourages customers to return. A tidy and well-organized space makes diners feel more comfortable and valued. Lastly, building rapport with regular customers can lead to repeat business and higher tips. Remembering names and preferences shows that the server cares about their experience.

Here are some key factors to consider:

  1. Provide excellent service
  2. Be proactive and attentive
  3. Master the art of upselling
  4. Maintain a clean and welcoming environment
  5. Build rapport with regular customers

Currently 19,790 Server job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Server in the US?

Learn what a Server does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Server today.
Position
Overview
Server
19,790 Job Openings