Busser Salary in Louisville, KY
Bussers in Louisville, KY, in 2025, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The demand for Bussers in Louisville is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job outlook and expanding opportunities in the hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Busser Make in Louisville, KY?
The salary of a Busser in Louisville varies depending on experience and employer, but here is an overview of earnings at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,436.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Bussers in Louisville Earn Tips?
Bussers typically earn tips as part of their income. On average, they can make an extra $3 to $5 per hour in tips, which can significantly boost their overall earnings depending on the restaurant's service style and customer flow.
Busser Salary in Louisville vs. National Average
Nationally, Bussers earn about $14.50 per hour, which totals approximately $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Bussers in Louisville earn slightly less, with about $13.90 per hour and $28,912 annually. The gap reflects regional cost of living and restaurant market factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Louisville for Bussers
Considering nearby areas, busser salaries vary somewhat:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- Highlands: $17.60 per hour
Bussers working in the Highlands area tend to earn more due to higher-end dining and a busier hospitality scene compared to other parts of Louisville.
What Influences a Busser’s Salary in Louisville?
The salary of a Busser in Louisville can be influenced by several important factors:
- Experience and Skills: More experienced Bussers with efficient skills can command higher wages and more generous tipping.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or fine dining establishments generally pay more than casual or fast food settings.
- Shift Timing: Bussers working evening or weekend shifts may earn higher wages or more tips due to busier service times.
- Location: Urban areas like Downtown or Highlands tend to offer higher salaries because of volume and clientele.
- Certifications: Certain food safety certifications can make a Busser more valuable to employers.
How To Become a Busser in Louisville
To start or advance a career as a Busser in Louisville, here are some key steps to consider:
- Complete Basic Training: Programs such as the Jefferson Community and Technical College Culinary Arts Program offer foundational training in culinary and front-of-house skills relevant to bussing.
- Obtain Required Certifications: Getting a Food Handler's Permit is essential in Kentucky, along with an Alcohol Server Certification if working in establishments that serve alcohol.
- Gain Experience: Entry-level jobs often involve on-the-job training in hospitality settings like restaurants or hotels.
- Consider Hospitality Studies: Programs like those at Sullivan University National Center for Hospitality Studies provide useful knowledge in restaurant operations that benefit Bussers looking to grow their careers.
Top Employers Hiring Bussers in Louisville
Some of the most notable employers actively hiring Bussers in Louisville include:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Bussers in Louisville Work At
Bussers in Louisville typically work at various hospitality establishments:
- Casual Restaurants: Often offer moderate pay with consistent tips.
- Fast Casual Chains: Generally provide stable wages but lower tips compared to full-service restaurants.
- Fine Dining: Bussers in this environment usually earn higher wages plus more substantial tips.
- Hotel Restaurants and Banquet Halls: These can offer steady employment with potential for higher income in busy event seasons.
The type of establishment greatly impacts the Busser's hourly pay and tipping potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Louisville for Bussers
For those interested in careers similar to Bussing, here are a few related hospitality roles worth considering:
These include Backwaiter, Fine Dining Server, and Server positions, all involving customer service and dining room support duties.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bussers in Louisville
Bussers in Louisville should be aware of relevant labor laws and tax obligations to protect their rights and income:
- Learn more about federal labor regulations at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The Kentucky Career Center offers resources on state employment standards and workforce services.
- Local labor laws and resources can be found on the City of Louisville official website.