How much does a Server make?
Servers play a key role in the hospitality industry. They work in restaurants, cafes, and hotels. They serve food and drinks to customers. The average yearly salary for a server is $32,492. This means that most servers earn between $14,500 and $60,000 each year.
The salary can vary based on experience and location. Servers with more experience often earn higher salaries. Those in big cities or tourist areas may also earn more than those in smaller towns. Some servers earn tips on top of their base salary. This can increase their total yearly income. Many servers find that their earnings grow with the number of hours they work and the tips they receive.
What are the highest paying cities for a Server?

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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $45,483
In Boston, working as a server means being part of a vibrant dining scene. With many upscale restaurants and historic eateries, servers enjoy a dynamic work environment. Notable companies like Legal Sea Foods and The Boston Beer Company offer unique dining experiences.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $44,537
Seattle offers a lively atmosphere for servers, with a mix of seafood and coffee culture. Servers here often work in trendy spots and enjoy a laid-back yet professional environment. Companies like Starbucks and Ivar's provide exciting opportunities.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $43,362
San Francisco's dining scene is diverse and exciting for servers. Working in this city means experiencing a mix of fine dining and casual eateries. Servers often find themselves in trendy restaurants with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $42,688
In San Jose, servers enjoy a bustling dining environment with a mix of tech-driven and traditional restaurants. Working in this city means being part of a fast-paced yet rewarding industry. Companies like Google and Apple offer unique perks for servers.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $41,782
Washington, DC offers a unique dining experience for servers, with a mix of political and cultural influences. Servers here often work in high-energy restaurants and enjoy a dynamic work environment. Notable companies include The Hamilton and Founding Farmers.
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Charleston, SC
Average Salary: $41,382
Charleston provides a charming and historic setting for servers. Working in this city means being part of a vibrant culinary scene with a focus on Southern cuisine. Servers often enjoy a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
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Worcester, MA
Average Salary: $40,539
In Worcester, servers find a friendly and community-oriented dining scene. Working in this city offers a mix of casual and upscale dining experiences. Servers often enjoy a close-knit work environment.
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Stamford, CT
Average Salary: $40,522
Stamford offers a professional and dynamic environment for servers. Working in this city means being part of a diverse dining scene with a mix of corporate and casual restaurants. Servers often enjoy a balanced and rewarding work experience.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $40,282
Los Angeles provides a vibrant and diverse dining scene for servers. Working in this city means experiencing a mix of celebrity-driven and local eateries. Servers often enjoy a dynamic and exciting work environment.
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Providence, RI
Average Salary: $39,805
In Providence, servers enjoy a mix of historic charm and modern dining trends. Working in this city offers a unique blend of traditional and contemporary culinary experiences. Servers often find themselves in a welcoming and engaging work environment.
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What are the best companies a Server can work for?

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Qualcomm
Average Salary: $278,910
Qualcomm offers competitive salaries for server positions. They have locations in many cities across the U.S. and internationally. Qualcomm is known for its innovative technology and offers a dynamic work environment.
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Legal Sea Foods
Average Salary: $83,853
Legal Sea Foods provides a good salary for server jobs. They operate in several locations, including Boston, New York, and Washington D.C. They focus on fresh seafood and offer a family-friendly atmosphere.
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Pappas Restaurants
Average Salary: $79,669
Pappas Restaurants offers a solid salary for server positions. They have locations in Texas, including Houston and Dallas. They are known for their Greek cuisine and warm hospitality.
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The Cake Bake Shop
Average Salary: $78,065
The Cake Bake Shop provides a good salary for server jobs. They have locations in New York and New Jersey. They are famous for their delicious baked goods and friendly service.
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CONNORS STEAK and SEAFOOD
Average Salary: $78,000
CONNORS STEAK and SEAFOOD offers a competitive salary for server positions. They have locations in Chicago and New York. They are known for their high-quality steak and seafood.
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Saints + Council
Average Salary: $77,400
Saints + Council provides a good salary for server positions. They have locations in Chicago and New York. They focus on modern American cuisine and offer a trendy atmosphere.
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Hillstone Restaurant Group
Average Salary: $76,502
Hillstone Restaurant Group offers a solid salary for server positions. They have locations in several states, including California, Texas, and Florida. They are known for their casual dining experience.
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The Mark Hotel
Average Salary: $75,750
The Mark Hotel provides a good salary for server positions. They are located in New York City. They offer a luxurious dining experience and are known for their elegant service.
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Lettuce Entertain You
Average Salary: $68,843
Lettuce Entertain You offers a fair salary for server positions. They have locations in Chicago and New York. They are known for their diverse menu and vibrant atmosphere.
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The Park at 14th
Average Salary: $68,026
The Park at 14th provides a good salary for server positions. They are located in Washington D.C. They offer a casual dining experience and are known for their friendly service.
How to earn more as a Server?
Working as a server can be a rewarding job. It offers the chance to meet new people and earn tips. However, there are ways to earn more. By focusing on certain areas, a server can increase their income. This can lead to a more satisfying work experience.
Here are some ways to earn more as a server:
- Be Friendly and Professional: Customers appreciate a warm and professional attitude. This can lead to bigger tips and repeat business.
- Learn the Menu: Knowing the menu well helps in recommending dishes. This can lead to higher sales and better tips.
- Provide Excellent Service: Quick and accurate service makes customers happy. Happy customers are more likely to leave bigger tips.
- Communicate with the Kitchen: Clear communication with the kitchen can speed up service. This keeps customers happy and can lead to better tips.
- Stay Organized: Keeping track of orders and tables helps in serving customers faster. This can lead to more tips and better reviews.



