Server Salary in Arlington, VA
Servers in Arlington, VA, in 2025, earn approximately $22.47 per hour, which translates to about $898.80 per week, $3,894.80 per month, and $46,737.60 per year.
The server job market in Arlington is growing positively at a rate of 5% per year, indicating increasing opportunities and demand for skilled Servers in the area.
How Much Does a Server Make in Arlington, VA?
The salary of a Server in Arlington can vary based on experience and workplace, but to give you an idea, here’s an overview across different levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.37 | $534.80 | $2,314.67 | $27,777.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $22.47 | $898.80 | $3,894.80 | $46,737.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $37.78 | $1,511.20 | $6,538.13 | $78,582.40 |
Do Servers in Arlington Earn Tips?
Yes, Servers typically earn tips in addition to their regular salary. In Arlington, Servers can expect to make an additional $10 or more per hour in tips depending on the establishment and clientele, which can significantly boost overall earnings.
Server Salary in Arlington vs. National Average
Across the United States, Servers earn an average of about $17.55 per hour, translating to roughly $36,504 per year.
Compared to this, Servers in Arlington earn a higher wage at around $22.47 per hour and $46,737.60 yearly, reflecting the area's higher cost of living and vibrant hospitality industry.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Arlington for Servers
Nearby localities with attractive pay rates for Servers include:
- Fairfax: $22.97 per hour
- Sterling: $22.22 per hour
Servers commuting to Fairfax can expect slightly better hourly wages compared to some nearby cities, making it a competitive area for hospitality work.
What Influences a Server’s Salary in Arlington?
Several factors can impact how much a Server earns in Arlington:
- Experience and Skills: Servers with strong multitasking, communication, and upselling skills tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining venues generally offer better pay and tips compared to casual or fast casual restaurants.
- Shift and Hours Worked: Evening and weekend shifts often come with higher pay or more generous tips.
- Clientele and Location: Servers working in high-traffic tourist areas or business districts may earn more in tips.
- Certifications: Knowledge in responsible alcohol service or food safety can enhance hiring opportunities and wages.
How To Become a Server in Arlington
Starting as a Server in Arlington involves several key steps:
- Gain practical experience by working in various restaurant settings, building strong customer service skills.
- Consider enrolling in a Culinary Arts Program at Northern Virginia Community College, which provides knowledge in food safety and kitchen operations valuable for servers oriented toward food handling.
- The Hospitality Management Program at George Mason University offers courses in restaurant management and customer service that can enhance a Server's career prospects.
- Obtain industry-recognized certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification to demonstrate competence in food safety standards.
- For Servers working in establishments serving alcohol, earning a TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification is often required and helps ensure responsible service.
Top Employers Hiring Servers in Arlington
Several well-known establishments in Arlington regularly hire Servers:
- The Salt Line
- Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ
- Legal Sea Foods
- CARLYLE
- Ted's Montana Grill
Establishments That Servers in Arlington Work At
Servers in Arlington find employment across a wide range of venue types, including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These establishments usually offer the highest salaries and tips due to higher average bills and affluent clientele.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Pay rates are moderate, but these venues often provide more consistent hours and a varied customer base.
- Bars and Nightclubs: Servers here may earn significant tips, especially during peak hours serving alcoholic beverages.
- Hotels and Resorts: These sometimes pay competitive wages and offer opportunities for advancement within hospitality chains.
The nature of the establishment strongly influences both base pay and tip potential for Servers in Arlington.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Arlington for Servers
Those interested in hospitality roles related to serving might consider the following positions:
These include Bartender, Fine Dining Server, and Waiter/Waitress, which offer related skills and career paths in food service.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Servers in Arlington
Servers should understand pertinent labor laws and tax regulations that affect their employment:
- Federal labor standards and wage rules can be explored on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- State-specific regulations, including worker protections and wage policies in Virginia, are detailed at the Virginia government website.