Fine Dining Server Salary in Cary, NC
Fine Dining Servers in Cary, NC, in 2025, earn approximately $14.00 per hour, which translates to about $560.00 per week, $2,426.67 per month, and $29,120.00 per year.
The demand for Fine Dining Servers in Cary is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy and expanding market for fine dining experiences in the area.
How Much Does a Fine Dining Server Make in Cary, NC?
The salary of a Fine Dining Server in Cary can vary depending on experience and employer. Here is a breakdown of how earnings differ by experience level:
| 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) | $14.00 | $560.00 | $2,426.67 | $29,120.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Fine Dining Servers in Cary Earn Tips?
Yes, Fine Dining Servers in Cary typically earn tips that can significantly supplement their hourly wage. On average, they can make an extra $10 per hour or more in tips alone, depending on the restaurant and clientele.
Fine Dining Server Salary in Cary vs. National Average
Nationally, Fine Dining Servers earn an average of around $14.50 per hour or about $30,160.00 per year.
Compared to the national average, Fine Dining Servers in Cary earn slightly less at around $14.00 per hour and $29,120.00 annually.
This difference can be influenced by the local cost of living and the size of the fine dining market in Cary.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Cary for Fine Dining Servers
Some higher-paying areas near Cary for Fine Dining Servers include:
- Downtown Cary: $15.50 per hour
- Preston: $17.60 per hour
Servers working in Preston may find more lucrative opportunities compared to other nearby areas.
What Influences a Fine Dining Server’s Salary in Cary?
Several key factors influence how much a Fine Dining Server can earn in Cary:
- Experience: Servers with more years of practice tend to command higher wages and better shifts.
- Skill and Professionalism: Mastery of fine dining etiquette, menu knowledge, and customer service skills enhance earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or luxury hotels often pay more than casual dining venues.
- Location: Working in higher-traffic or higher-income neighborhoods like Preston can result in increased earnings.
- Tips: Exceptional service and frequent patronage greatly affect total income.
How To Become a Fine Dining Server in Cary
Entering the Fine Dining Server profession in Cary involves several steps and useful certifications:
- Consider enrolling in programs such as the Wake Technical Community College Culinary Arts Program, which prepares students for roles in fine dining service.
- The Durham Technical Community College Hospitality Management Program offers valuable skills in restaurant operations and customer service.
- Obtaining the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensures compliance with essential food safety standards.
- Acquiring the North Carolina Alcohol Beverage Control Commission (ABC) Permit is mandatory for servers in establishments that serve alcohol.
Top Employers Hiring Fine Dining Servers in Cary
Some prominent employers currently hiring Fine Dining Servers in Cary include:
- Tribeca Tavern
- The Umstead Hotel and Spa
- MacGregor Downs Country Club
Establishments That Fine Dining Servers in Cary Work At
Fine Dining Servers in Cary typically work in a variety of establishments such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: The most common workplace, offering the highest salaries and gratuities due to the upscale clientele.
- Luxury Hotels and Resorts: Jobs here often include higher pay and benefits, with more formal service expectations.
- Country Clubs and Private Clubs: These establishments may pay well and provide consistent hours.
- Upscale Catering Services: Occasion-based work with varying schedules and tip opportunities.
The type of establishment directly affects salary, with fine dining venues generally offering the greatest earning potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Cary for Fine Dining Servers
If you are interested in careers similar to Fine Dining Server, you might consider the following related roles:
These include Bartender, Server, and Banquet Server positions, which share similar customer interaction and service skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Fine Dining Servers in Cary
Fine Dining Servers should be aware of labor laws and tax regulations applicable in Cary and North Carolina, such as minimum wage, overtime eligibility, and tax responsibilities.
- For federal labor laws, visit the U.S. Department of Labor official website.
- State-specific labor laws can be found on the North Carolina Department of Labor website.
- Local Cary regulations and resources are available at the Town of Cary official website.