The earnings of a waitress can vary significantly based on several factors, including location, the type of establishment, experience, and hours worked. On average, in the United States, waitresses earn around $20,000 to $30,000 per year in base salary. However, this figure often does not include tips, which can substantially increase total earnings.
In many restaurants, especially those that are busy or have a higher-end clientele, tips can add a significant amount to a waitress’s income, sometimes bringing total earnings to between $40,000 and $60,000 annually or even higher in some cases. In metropolitan areas or upscale restaurants, waitresses may earn much more due to higher customer volumes and larger average tips.
It’s also important to note that minimum wage laws for tipped employees can vary by state. Some states require employers to pay a higher minimum wage for tipped workers, while others allow a lower base pay with the expectation that tips will make up the difference. This can also impact total earnings for waitresses.
