Server Salary in Boulder, CO
Servers in Boulder, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $23.45 per hour, which translates to about $938.00 per week, $4,064.67 per month, and $48,776.00 per year.
The demand for Servers in Boulder is growing moderately at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for employment opportunities in the local food service and hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Server Make in Boulder, CO?
The salary of a Server in Boulder varies by experience and the type of establishment, but below is a breakdown of typical earnings at different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.57 | $622.80 | $2,694.00 | $32,376.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $23.45 | $938.00 | $4,064.67 | $48,776.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $36.08 | $1,443.20 | $6,254.13 | $75,046.40 |
Do Servers in Boulder Earn Tips?
Servers typically earn a significant portion of their income from tips. In Boulder, they can make an extra around $10 to $15 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and shift. This additional income can greatly boost their overall earnings, especially in busier or upscale venues.
Server Salary in Boulder vs. National Average
Nationally, Servers earn about $17.50 per hour, equating to roughly $36,400 per year.
Compared to the national average, Servers in Boulder earn notably more, with an average hourly wage of $23.45 and annual earnings near $48,776. This higher pay reflects Boulder’s cost of living and the robust hospitality sector.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Boulder for Servers
The following nearby areas offer competitive salaries for Servers:
- Downtown Boulder: $25.00 per hour
- University Hill: $24.50 per hour
Servers working in Downtown Boulder or University Hill tend to earn more due to the vibrant dining scenes and higher customer traffic in these neighborhoods.
What Influences a Server’s Salary in Boulder?
Several factors affect the earnings of a Server in Boulder:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Servers or those with exceptional customer service skills typically earn higher wages and receive better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants and upscale venues often pay better base wages and provide higher tipping potential than casual or fast-food settings.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts may offer higher earning potential due to increased customer volume and possible shift differentials.
- Location: Working in high-traffic areas like Downtown Boulder often leads to more lucrative tips and wages.
- Certifications and Training: Servers with certifications such as TIPS or ServSafe may be more in demand and able to command higher pay.
How To Become a Server in Boulder
Becoming a Server in Boulder involves several steps to increase your employability and earning potential:
- Gain relevant experience by working in entry-level food service roles or volunteering in hospitality environments.
- Consider Culinary Arts Programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts, located in Boulder, which provides comprehensive training in culinary techniques beneficial for servers seeking to deepen their food knowledge.
- Pursue Hospitality Management Studies like the Hospitality Management Program at University of Colorado Boulder, which equips students with broader skills applicable to restaurant service and management.
- Obtain essential certifications: The TIPS (Training for Intervention Procedures) Certification educates servers on responsible alcohol service and is often required locally.
- Earn the ServSafe Food Handler Certification, which ensures understanding of proper food safety practices and is commonly mandated by employers in the food industry.
- Develop strong communication and customer service skills to excel in the role.
Top Employers Hiring Servers in Boulder
Boulder’s food service industry includes several prominent employers actively hiring Servers:
- West End Tavern
- Bellota
- Academy Boulder
- Safeway
- Birdcall
Establishments That Servers in Boulder Work At
Servers in Boulder find employment in a variety of establishments, including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Often provide the highest wages and tipping potential due to upscale clientele and service expectations.
- Casual and Fast Casual Eateries: Offer steadier work but typically lower base pay and tips compared to fine dining.
- Bars and Taverns: Servers here may earn substantial tips, especially during peak hours, but base wages can vary widely.
- Hotels and Resorts: Usually provide competitive wages, benefits, and the opportunity to work in diverse service settings.
The type of establishment greatly impacts a Server’s ability to earn, with fine dining and busy bars generally providing the best compensation opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Boulder for Servers
If you are exploring roles similar to Server, you might consider these related positions that share skills and working environments:
These include Fine Dining Server, Waiter/Waitress, and Banquet Server, roles which involve similar responsibilities and can have comparable salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Servers in Boulder
Servers should be knowledgeable about labor laws and tax obligations at the local, state, and federal level to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- Visit the Official website of the State of Colorado for state labor laws, wage rules, and employment regulations.
- Consult the Official website of Boulder County for local employment laws and community resources.
- For federal guidelines, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website, which provides information on minimum wage, overtime, and workplace protections.