Server Salary in Brownsville, TX
Servers in Brownsville, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $13.46 per hour, which translates to about $538.40 per week, $2,333.07 per month, and $27,996.80 per year.
The demand for Servers in Brownsville is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and expanding opportunities in the local hospitality and foodservice industries.
How Much Does a Server Make in Brownsville, TX?
The salary of a Server in Brownsville varies based on experience, skills, and employer, but the following breakdown offers a general overview by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $8.76 | $350.40 | $1,511.20 | $18,220.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $13.46 | $538.40 | $2,333.07 | $27,996.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.68 | $827.20 | $3,570.93 | $42,950.40 |
Do Servers in Brownsville Earn Tips?
Yes, as Servers often work in establishments where tipping is customary, they can earn an additional $5-$15 per hour in tips. This can significantly boost their overall income, sometimes doubling base pay on busy shifts.
Server Salary in Brownsville, TX vs. National Average
Nationally, Servers earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which equates to about $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Servers in Brownsville earn slightly less hourly at $13.46, and their annual salary averages about $27,996.80. This difference can be influenced by local economic conditions and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Brownsville for Servers
If you consider nearby areas, the pay rates for Servers vary:
- Downtown Brownsville: $15.50 per hour
- North Brownsville: $17.60 per hour
Servers in North Brownsville tend to earn more compared to downtown, reflecting different customer demographics and establishment types.
What Influences a Server’s Salary in Brownsville?
Several key factors impact how much a Server can earn in Brownsville:
- Experience and Customer Service Skills: More experienced Servers who excel at customer relations often earn higher wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Servers at fine dining and upscale restaurants generally receive higher base pay and larger tips compared to casual or fast food establishments.
- Work Hours and Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts can offer increased tip opportunities and sometimes shift differentials.
- Certifications and Training: Holding certifications such as TABC can open opportunities to work in establishments serving alcohol, potentially increasing earnings.
- Local Economic Conditions: Areas with higher customer traffic and greater disposable income tend to support better server salaries.
How To Become a Server in Brownsville
To start a career as a Server in Brownsville, consider the following steps:
- Complete Hospitality or Culinary Education: Programs such as the Texas Southmost College Culinary Arts Program and Brownsville Independent School District's Career and Technical Education (CTE) Program can provide foundational skills and knowledge.
- Obtain Necessary Certifications: The Texas Food Handler Certification is mandatory for all food service employees, ensuring understanding of food safety. Additionally, the TABC Certification is required for Servers working in establishments that serve alcohol.
- Gain Restaurant Experience: Entry-level positions and internships provide practical experience and help develop customer service skills essential for success.
Top Employers Hiring Servers in Brownsville
Some of the prominent establishments actively seeking Servers in Brownsville include:
- Parry's Pizza
- Chili's
- Whataburger
- Texas Roadhouse
- Kumori Sushi
Establishments That Servers in Brownsville Work At
Servers in Brownsville commonly find employment in a variety of dining establishments, each affecting their salaries differently.
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Moderate base pay with steady tips, common for many Servers starting out.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Higher base wages and the potential for substantial tips from a more affluent clientele.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: Often hourly wage-focused with limited tipping opportunities, resulting in generally lower total earnings.
- Bars and Nightclubs: Potential for higher tips especially during busy night shifts, especially if alcohol service is involved requiring certifications.
The type and prestige of the establishment directly impact both base pay and gratuities a Server can expect.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Brownsville for Servers
If you're exploring similar career paths within hospitality, consider related roles that share overlapping skills and responsibilities.
These include Fine Dining Server, Bartender, and Cashier positions, offering different work environments and earning potentials within the hospitality sector.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Servers in Brownsville
Servers in Brownsville should understand their labor rights and tax responsibilities to ensure fair treatment and compliance.
- Information about employment and labor regulations can be found at the Texas Workforce Commission - State agency overseeing employment and labor laws.
- For details related to food safety regulations and certifications necessary in the food service industry, visit the Texas Department of State Health Services.
- For federal tax information, paycheck deductions, and employer guidelines, the Internal Revenue Service provides comprehensive resources.