Server Salaries

Updated on Jun 05, 2025
Position
Salary

How much does a Server make?

The average salary for a Server is $33,021 per year in the US.

A server plays a key role in the hospitality industry. They work in restaurants, cafes, and hotels. Servers earn a good salary. The average annual salary for a server is around $33,000. This can vary based on experience and location.

Servers can earn tips on top of their base pay. Tips can increase their total income. In some areas, servers earn more from tips than their hourly wage. This makes the job even more rewarding. Servers who work in busy areas or with large parties often earn more 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 the U.S. on this list. Boston, MA, leads with an average salary of $47,099. Seattle, WA, and San Francisco, CA, follow closely with average salaries of $43,332 and $42,531, respectively. These cities offer competitive pay and a chance to grow in a thriving tech environment. Other notable cities include San Jose, CA, and Worcester, MA, with average salaries of $42,254 and $41,528. Washington, DC, and Charleston, SC, also provide attractive opportunities with salaries around $41,000. These cities combine good pay with a dynamic job market.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Server jobs, highlighting Boston, MA with the highest at $47,099 and Dallas, TX with the lowest at $39,967.
  1. Boston, MA
    Average Salary: $47,099
    In Boston, working as a server offers a dynamic environment with a mix of high-end restaurants and casual eateries. With prominent companies like Legal Sea Foods and The Butcher Shop, servers can expect a bustling atmosphere and diverse clientele.
    Find Server jobs in Boston, MA


  2. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $43,332
    Seattle's vibrant food scene makes it an exciting place for servers. From seafood at Ivar's Acres to coffee shops like Starbucks, servers enjoy a lively work environment with a strong community feel.
    Find Server jobs in Seattle, WA


  3. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $42,531
    San Francisco provides a unique setting for servers, with a variety of upscale dining options and a diverse customer base. Working at establishments like Fog Harbor Fish House offers a chance to serve in a picturesque and trendy environment.
    Find Server jobs in San Francisco, CA


  4. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $42,254
    In San Jose, servers benefit from a growing tech industry, leading to a demand for quality dining experiences. With restaurants like The French Laundry nearby, servers can expect to work in a sophisticated and fast-paced setting.
    Find Server jobs in San Jose, CA


  5. Worcester, MA
    Average Salary: $41,528
    Worcester offers a more relaxed pace for servers, with a mix of family-owned restaurants and local eateries. Servers can enjoy a friendly community and a variety of dining experiences.
    Find Server jobs in Worcester, MA


  6. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $41,465
    Washington, DC, provides a unique blend of political and culinary culture. Servers can work in high-end restaurants like The Hamilton or in casual spots, enjoying a diverse and dynamic work environment.
    Find Server jobs in Washington, DC


  7. Charleston, SC
    Average Salary: $41,447
    Charleston's rich history and vibrant culture make it an appealing place for servers. Working in restaurants like Husk, servers can expect to serve in a charming and historic setting.
    Find Server jobs in Charleston, SC


  8. Providence, RI
    Average Salary: $41,149
    Providence offers a mix of traditional New England charm and modern dining trends. Servers can work in cozy spots like Attleboro or in more contemporary settings, enjoying a diverse culinary scene.
    Find Server jobs in Providence, RI


  9. Stamford, CT
    Average Salary: $40,690
    Stamford provides a professional setting for servers, with a variety of upscale dining options. Working in restaurants like The Lobster House, servers can expect to serve in a refined and elegant environment.
    Find Server jobs in Stamford, CT


  10. Dallas, TX
    Average Salary: $39,967
    Dallas offers a vibrant and fast-paced environment for servers, with a variety of dining options from Tex-Mex to fine dining. Working in places like The Driskill, servers can enjoy a dynamic and energetic atmosphere.
    Find Server jobs in Dallas, TX

What are the best companies a Server can work for?

Qualcomm offers one of the highest salaries for server jobs, with an average of $275,658 per year. SeKon Enterprise, Inc. and Legal Sea Foods also provide competitive pay, with averages of $150,125 and $92,500, respectively. These companies value their servers and offer attractive compensation.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Server jobs, highlighting Qualcomm with the highest at $275,658 and The Cake Bake Shop with the lowest at $71,667.
  1. Qualcomm
    Average Salary: $275,658
    Qualcomm offers exciting Server jobs with a competitive salary. They operate globally, with major offices in the U.S., Europe, and Asia. Qualcomm focuses on wireless technology, so you'll work in a fast-paced, innovative environment.


  2. SeKon Enterprise, Inc
    Average Salary: $150,125
    SeKon Enterprise, Inc. provides Server positions with a solid salary. They are based in the U.S. and specialize in technology and consulting services. Working here means you'll be part of a team that values growth and development.


  3. Legal Sea Foods
    Average Salary: $92,500
    Legal Sea Foods offers rewarding Server jobs with a good salary. They have a presence in the Northeast U.S. and are known for their fresh seafood. You'll enjoy a vibrant work environment and the chance to learn from experienced professionals.


  4. The Mark Hotel
    Average Salary: $78,000
    The Mark Hotel provides Server positions with a competitive salary. Located in New York City, this luxury hotel offers a dynamic work environment. You'll have the opportunity to serve guests from around the world and gain valuable experience.


  5. Saints + Council
    Average Salary: $75,747
    Saints + Council offers Server jobs with a solid salary. They operate in the U.S., focusing on hospitality and dining. Working here means you'll be part of a team that values creativity and customer service.


  6. Barley Hospitality
    Average Salary: $75,568
    Barley Hospitality provides Server positions with a good salary. They have locations in the U.S. and are known for their unique dining experiences. You'll work in a fun, energetic environment and have the chance to grow with the company.


  7. Nine Mile Station
    Average Salary: $75,000
    Nine Mile Station offers Server jobs with a competitive salary. They are located in the U.S. and focus on providing a great dining experience. Working here means you'll be part of a team that values teamwork and customer satisfaction.


  8. Prezzo
    Average Salary: $74,455
    Prezzo offers Server positions with a good salary. They operate in the U.S. and are known for their Italian cuisine. You'll work in a lively environment and have the opportunity to learn from experienced staff.


  9. Seoul Kitchen
    Average Salary: $72,082
    Seoul Kitchen provides Server jobs with a solid salary. They have locations in the U.S. and are known for their Korean dishes. Working here means you'll be part of a team that values creativity and customer service.


  10. The Cake Bake Shop
    Average Salary: $71,667
    The Cake Bake Shop offers Server positions with a good salary. They operate in the U.S. and are known for their delicious baked goods. You'll work in a fun, energetic environment and have the chance to grow with the company.

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, which can significantly boost their income. To earn more, consider these key factors:

  • Provide excellent service. Happy customers are more likely to leave generous tips. Always greet guests with a smile and be attentive to their needs.
  • Build rapport with regulars. Frequent customers often become loyal patrons. Take note of their preferences and remember their names. This personal touch can lead to bigger tips over time.
  • Upsell effectively. Suggest higher-end items, such as premium drinks or special dishes. Be knowledgeable about the menu and confidently recommend items that might interest your guests.
  • Stay busy and efficient. Keep your tables moving smoothly. This means taking orders quickly, delivering food promptly, and clearing dishes without delay. Efficiency can lead to more tables and more tips.
  • Dress professionally. A neat and professional appearance can make a good impression. It shows that you take pride in your job and can lead to better customer interactions and tips.

By focusing on these factors, servers can enhance their customer service and increase their earnings. Remember, the key to earning more lies in providing a memorable dining experience.

Currently 26,883 Server job openings, nationwide.

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Position
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Server
26,883 Job Openings