Server Salary in Bloomington, IN
Servers in Bloomington, IN, in 2025, earn approximately $16.09 per hour, which equals about $643.60 per week, $2,788.93 per month, and $33,467.20 per year.
The demand for Servers is growing at a steady rate of around 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities in the food service industry within Bloomington and the surrounding areas.
How Much Does a Server Make in Bloomington, IN?
The salary of a Server in Bloomington varies by experience, skill level, and the establishment. Below is a general overview of earnings based on different levels of experience:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $9.84 | $393.60 | $1,700.80 | $20,467.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.18 | $567.20 | $2,439.73 | $29,494.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $26.29 | $1,051.60 | $4,540.53 | $54,483.20 |
Do Servers in Bloomington Earn Tips?
Yes, Servers in Bloomington typically earn tips in addition to their base wages. Tips can vary widely based on the restaurant's style, location, and customer volume. On average, Servers can earn an extra $5 to $15 per hour in tips, significantly augmenting their overall income.
Server Salary in Bloomington vs. National Average
Nationally, Servers earn an average of about $17.50 per hour, which totals roughly $36,400 per year.
Compared to the national figures, Servers in Bloomington earn slightly less at an average of $16.09 per hour and $33,467.20 annually. This difference may be influenced by the local cost of living and market factors within Bloomington.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Bloomington for Servers
Within the vicinity of Bloomington, some areas offer higher wages for Servers:
- Downtown Bloomington: $17.00 per hour
- Near Indiana University: $16.50 per hour
Servers working in Downtown Bloomington tend to receive slightly better pay, likely reflecting higher demand and more upscale establishments.
What Influences a Server’s Salary in Bloomington?
Several factors affect how much a Server can earn in Bloomington:
- Experience and Skill: More experienced Servers or those with exceptional customer service skills can command higher wages and receive larger tips.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining or high-volume restaurants typically pay more and offer higher tip potential than casual or fast food venues.
- Shift and Hours Worked: Night shifts or busy weekends may provide opportunities for increased tips.
- Licensing and Certifications: Servers trained and certified in areas such as alcohol service may have access to better-paying establishments.
- Local Economic Factors: The economic conditions and average income levels in Bloomington directly influence wage standards.
How To Become a Server in Bloomington
Becoming a successful Server in Bloomington involves several key steps and qualifications:
- Obtain Basic Food Handler and Safety Knowledge: Completing courses like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification is essential to understand food safety and hygiene standards.
- Alcohol Service Certification: For establishments serving alcohol, completing the Indiana Alcohol Server Training Program is often mandatory.
- Gain Practical Experience: Many start as bussers or hosts to acquire familiarity with restaurant operations before moving into serving roles.
- Education and Training Programs: Resources such as the Ivy Tech Community College Culinary Arts Program and the Monroe County Career Center Hospitality Program provide valuable foundational hospitality skills.
Top Employers Hiring Servers in Bloomington
Bloomington features a variety of popular eateries actively seeking skilled Servers, including:
- Malibu Grill
- Texas Roadhouse
- The Owlery
- FARMbloomington
- Uptown Cafe
Establishments That Servers in Bloomington Work At
Servers in Bloomington find opportunities across a diverse range of establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These provide a steady flow of customers and average tips.
- Fast Casual Establishments: Faster service impacts tip volume but offers higher tips than fast food.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Servers here typically earn higher wages and significantly more in tips due to higher price points and white-glove service.
- Bars and Nightclubs: Alcohol-centric venues often generate substantial tip income but require alcohol service certification.
The type of establishment heavily influences total earnings, with fine dining and nightlife venues often the most lucrative.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Bloomington for Servers
Servers have several related career options within the hospitality industry that build on similar skills and experiences.
These roles include Bartender, Barista, and Backwaiter positions, each offering unique pathways and earning potentials within the food and beverage industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Servers in Bloomington
Servers should be familiar with federal, state, and local labor laws and tax regulations affecting their employment.
- For understanding federal labor laws, visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations.
- Indiana's workforce development and employment policies are available through the Indiana state website for workforce development and employment resources.
- The Local government website for Monroe County has additional information on local regulations and available services.