



Working as a server offers a range of salaries, allowing for good earning potential in the hospitality industry. The average yearly salary for servers stands at approximately $32,399. This number varies based on experience, location, and the type of establishment.
Here is a look at the salary breakdown for servers:
- 7.2% earn around $20,000
- 12.9% bring in about $23,182
- 15.9% make approximately $26,364
- 22.0% receive around $29,545
- 15.2% earn about $32,727
- 8.7% make roughly $35,909
- 7.0% bring in around $39,091
- 2.6% receive about $42,273
- 1.3% earn roughly $45,455
- 1.3% make approximately $48,636
- 0.9% bring in about $51,818
- The top earners can make around $55,000
This salary range demonstrates that hard work and dedication can lead to higher earnings in this role. Many servers also earn tips, which significantly increase their total income. Thus, being a server can be a rewarding choice both financially and personally.

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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $43,374
Working as a server in Boston offers a chance to be part of a vibrant dining scene. Upscale restaurants and unique eateries, like Legal Sea Foods, provide a variety of experiences for both patrons and employees.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $43,220
In Seattle, servers enjoy working in a city known for its coffee culture and fresh seafood. Local favorites such as Pike Place Market bring a steady flow of customers looking for quality service and unique dining experiences.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $42,823
San Francisco's diverse culinary landscape makes it an exciting place for servers. With top restaurants and renowned chains like The Cheesecake Factory, workers meet people from all walks of life while creating memorable dining moments.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $40,398
San Jose offers a bustling tech environment that influences its food scene. As a server here, you will engage with a mix of locals and professionals from nearby Silicon Valley, which often leads to fast-paced and dynamic shifts.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $40,227
Servers in Washington, DC have the unique opportunity to work around government officials and tourists. Many fine dining establishments thrive in the area, such as The Capital Grille, offering an exciting atmosphere for food service.
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Charleston, SC
Average Salary: $39,006
Charleston is famous for its Southern charm and culinary delights. Serving in this historic city allows you to work in prestigious places, such as Husk, while providing a warm and welcoming experience to guests.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $38,359
In Los Angeles, servers thrive in a glam-packed environment, often interacting with celebrities and foodies alike. The diverse range of dining options, from food trucks to upscale restaurants like Nobu, keeps the work environment lively.
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Stamford, CT
Average Salary: $38,353
Stamford’s dining scene provides a blend of relaxed and upscale environments for servers. Working in restaurants like Bar Rosso, you will cater to both local residents and visitors seeking delightful meals.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $38,306
Denver’s booming food scene presents many opportunities for servers to engage with enthusiastic diners. The city is known for its craft breweries and fresh farm-to-table restaurants, making it an exciting place to work.
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Hartford, CT
Average Salary: $38,010
In Hartford, servers can find great opportunities in a city that blends history with modern dining experiences. Working in establishments like Max Downtown allows servers to provide top-notch service while building connections with guests.
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SeKon Enterprise, Inc
Average Salary: $149,800
At SeKon Enterprise, Inc., servers can expect a competitive salary along with a dynamic work environment. The company operates mainly in the Washington D.C. area, offering server roles that emphasize customer service excellence.
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Backyard Products LLC
Average Salary: $120,513
Backyard Products LLC provides a great opportunity for servers, especially in its locations across the Midwest. The company values its team members and offers a supportive atmosphere, allowing servers to thrive.
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Unilever
Average Salary: $115,420
Unilever is known for its commitment to employee satisfaction. Servers at Unilever enjoy well-structured roles, mainly in corporate dining settings, with opportunities across various locations throughout the United States.
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Deloitte
Average Salary: $104,100
Deloitte offers an exciting setting for servers in its corporate environments, particularly in major cities like New York and Chicago. The company focuses on high-quality service, providing a rewarding experience for its servers.
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DNV
Average Salary: $95,554
At DNV, servers can find competitive wages and a professional atmosphere. The company operates in several locations across North America, promoting a culture of safety and customer satisfaction in dining.
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Legal Sea Foods
Average Salary: $92,238
Legal Sea Foods is a well-known restaurant chain that offers great salaries for servers. With locations primarily on the East Coast, the company prides itself on fresh seafood and top-notch customer service.
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The Mark Hotel
Average Salary: $78,000
The Mark Hotel provides an upscale dining experience in New York City. Servers here not only earn competitive salaries but also have the chance to work in a luxurious environment serving high-profile guests.
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Barley Hospitality
Average Salary: $76,786
Barley Hospitality includes a range of dining options where servers can enjoy a good environment and competitive pay. With various locations across the Midwest, the company focuses on showcasing local ingredients.
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Saints + Council
Average Salary: $75,873
At Saints + Council, servers work in a vibrant and engaging atmosphere. Located in urban centers, the company emphasizes creativity in its food and service, offering an enjoyable experience for servers.
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Nine Mile Station
Average Salary: $75,000
Nine Mile Station provides a unique outdoor dining experience in Denver, Colorado. Servers here can expect competitive salaries while working in a fun and relaxed setting that attracts locals and visitors alike.
As a server, you can boost your earnings by focusing on a few key factors. By implementing these strategies, you can maximize your tips and overall income.
- Provide Excellent Service: Always strive to give your customers the best experience. Remember their names, check on them regularly, and be attentive to their needs.
- Upsell Menu Items: Suggest appetizers, desserts, or drinks that complement their meal. Increased sales often lead to higher tips.
- Build Regular Customers: Create a rapport with repeat customers. Familiar faces usually leave better tips.
- Work Busy Shifts: Pick shifts during peak hours to serve more customers. The higher the volume, the greater your earning potential.
- Improve Your Knowledge: Learn about the menu items in detail. Being able to answer questions or recommend dishes can impress customers and lead to better tips.
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