Busser Resources

|

listIcon

Additional Resources

Arrow down icon
List Icon

Busser Resources

Open

5 min read

Busser Salary in Ann Arbor, MI

Bussers in Ann Arbor, MI, in 2025, earn approximately $11.34 per hour, which translates to about $453.60 per week, $1,965.60 per month, and $23,587.20 per year.

The demand for Bussers in Ann Arbor is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job availability and career advancement in the hospitality sector within the region.

What could I earn?
Find out how your salary compares to the average Busser salary.
Job Title
Location
Your Salary
Average Busser Salary in Ann Arbor, MI:
Your salary is the same as the Ann Arbor, MI salary average.
$11.34
Your Salary
$11.34
$0.00
$11.34
$22.68
Market Average
$11.34

How Much Does a Busser Make in Ann Arbor, MI?

The salary of a Busser in Ann Arbor varies with experience and employer, with entry, mid, and top-level wages offering insights into earning potential.

Experience levelHourly payWeekly payMonthly payYearly pay
Entry-level (~25th percentile)$10.00$400.00$1,733.33$20,800.00
Mid-level (average)$11.00$440.00$1,906.67$22,880.00
Top earners (90th percentile)$13.00$520.00$2,246.67$27,040.00

Do Bussers in Ann Arbor Earn Tips?

Bussers typically earn tips as part of their compensation. They can expect to receive an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and shift. This can significantly increase their overall earnings beyond the hourly wage.

Busser Salary in Ann Arbor vs. National Average

Nationally, Bussers earn an average of about $14.28 per hour, which amounts to approximately $29,702.40 annually.

Compared to the national average, Bussers in Ann Arbor make slightly less, with an average hourly rate of $11.34 and an annual salary near $23,587.20. This difference can be due to local cost of living and demand factors.

Highest-Paying Areas Near Ann Arbor for Bussers

Exploring nearby areas for Busser jobs, the following neighborhoods offer competitive pay:

  • Downtown Ann Arbor: $12.50 per hour
  • Kerrytown: $12.00 per hour

These areas tend to have bustling restaurant scenes that can support higher wages for Bussers compared to other parts of the city.

High-Paying Cities for Bussers

The table below showcases four of the best cities to work in as a Busser. You can see the average annual wage for a Busser in each of these cities.

City

Avg Salary

Avg Hourly Wage

Chicago, IL

$32,819

$15.78

Los Angeles, CA

$28,230

$13.57

Miami, FL

$25,223

$12.13

NYC, NY

$33,498

$16.10

What Influences a Busser’s Salary in Ann Arbor?

Several factors can influence a Busser's salary in Ann Arbor:

  • Experience Level: More experienced Bussers usually command higher wages and better tips.
  • Skills and Efficiency: Bussers who work quickly and maintain cleanliness and organization often receive positive evaluations and higher pay.
  • Type of Establishment: High-end or busy restaurants usually pay better wages and offer more tipping opportunities than casual diners.
  • Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts may include shift differentials or increased tips.
  • Local Demand and Economy: Area economic growth and tourism can impact restaurant traffic and thus Busser pay.

How To Become a Busser in Ann Arbor

Starting a career as a Busser in Ann Arbor involves a few straightforward steps and potential certifications:

  • Gain On-the-Job Experience: Many Bussers start with no formal training by applying at local restaurants.
  • Consider Culinary or Food Service Training: Programs such as the Washtenaw Community College Culinary Arts Program offer valuable skills useful even for Bussers interested in advancing their hospitality careers.
  • Pursue Food Safety Certification: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are widely respected in the industry and enhance employability.
  • Alcohol Service Training: The TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification can be an asset when working in establishments serving alcohol.
  • Participate in Local Classes: Opportunities such as Zingerman's Bakehouse Baking Classes help deepen understanding of the culinary environment.

Top Employers Hiring Bussers in Ann Arbor

Some leading employers seeking qualified Bussers in Ann Arbor include:

  • Zingerman's Delicatessen
  • The Chop House
  • Gandy Dancer
Over 100k Jobs on OysterLink
Find the best paying jobs that match your skills and goals.
OysterLink Logo

Establishments That Bussers in Ann Arbor Work At

Bussers typically find work in various types of food establishments, including:

  • Casual Dining Restaurants: Often provide steady work but moderate wages and tipping.
  • Fast Casual Spots: These may pay slightly lower wages but offer quicker shifts.
  • Upscale and Fine Dining: Higher wages and larger tips are common, leading to greater overall earnings for Bussers.
  • Hotels and Event Venues: Can offer seasonal or event-based work with potential for better pay.

The type and prestige of the establishment heavily influence a Busser’s salary and tip earnings.

Related Hospitality Jobs in Ann Arbor for Bussers

If you're interested in other roles related to being a Busser, you might explore similar positions that share responsibilities or career pathways.

Job Title

Avg Salary

Backwaiter

$32,636

Dishwasher

$31,650

These include Backwaiter, Dishwasher, and Cashier positions, which align with food service duties and offer various career prospects within the hospitality industry.

Labor Laws and Taxes for Bussers in Ann Arbor

Bussers should familiarize themselves with local and federal labor laws and tax responsibilities to understand their rights and obligations in the workplace.