Server Salary in Burlington, VT
Servers in Burlington, VT, in 2025, earn approximately $24.40 per hour, which translates to about $976.00 per week, $4,229.33 per month, and $50,752.00 per year.
The demand for Servers in Burlington is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy and expanding market for hospitality and food service in the region.
How Much Does a Server Make in Burlington, VT?
The salary of a Server in Burlington can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general look at earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.21 | $608.40 | $2,633.40 | $31,600.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $24.40 | $976.00 | $4,229.33 | $50,752.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $39.13 | $1,565.20 | $6,790.67 | $81,382.40 |
Do Servers in Burlington Earn Tips?
Servers typically earn tips in addition to their base salary. In Burlington, Servers can expect to make an extra $10 to $20 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and clientele, which significantly boosts their overall income.
Server Salary in Burlington vs. National Average
Nationally, Servers earn an average of around $17.55 per hour, translating to about $36,504 per year.
When compared to the national average, Servers in Burlington earn significantly more, at about $24.40 per hour and $50,752 annually.
This difference can be attributed to local market conditions and the strong tourism and hospitality industry in Burlington.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Burlington for Servers
When looking at nearby areas, Server salaries vary slightly:
- South Burlington: $25.34 per hour
- Burlington: $24.40 per hour
Servers working in South Burlington can expect slightly higher pay compared to those in Burlington itself, making commuting an attractive option for some.
What Influences a Server’s Salary in Burlington?
Several key factors influence the salary of a Server in Burlington:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Servers who are skilled in customer service and upselling tend to earn higher wages and more tips.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants often pay higher base wages and enable greater tip earnings compared to casual or fast-casual eateries.
- Shift and Hours Worked: Evening shifts and weekends usually offer opportunities for better tips and sometimes higher base pay.
- Location and Clientele: Servers in high-tourism or upscale areas of Burlington may receive more generous tips than those in less trafficked locations.
- Certifications and Training: Knowledge in responsible alcohol service or food safety can enhance employability and wage potential.
How To Become a Server in Burlington
Starting a career as a Server in Burlington can be enhanced by several concrete steps:
- Complete Relevant Educational Programs: Pursuing a Culinary Arts Program at Community College of Vermont or a Hospitality Management Program at University of Vermont provides foundational knowledge beneficial for serving roles.
- Obtain Food Safety and Beverage Certifications: Earning credentials like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification ensures compliance with health regulations and responsible alcohol service.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level roles or internships in restaurants help develop necessary customer service and multitasking skills.
- Network Within the Local Hospitality Scene: Engage with job fairs and local industry events to connect with potential employers.
Top Employers Hiring Servers in Burlington
Burlington boasts a range of notable establishments actively hiring Servers, including:
- Hen of the Wood
- American Flatbread Company
- Penny Cluse Café
- The Farmhouse Tap & Grill
- Leunig's Bistro
Establishments That Servers in Burlington Work At
Servers in Burlington typically find employment across a variety of establishments, including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These offer higher base pay and generous tips, reflecting the upscale clientele and service standards.
- Casual Dining and Bistros: Popular local eateries where Servers receive moderate base wages and tips.
- Fast Casual and Cafés: These often pay a lower base wage with less emphasis on tipping.
- Hotels and Event Venues: Servers in these venues might enjoy steady work and diverse schedules but with varying tip potentials.
The nature and prestige of the establishment can significantly affect overall earning potential for Servers in Burlington.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Burlington for Servers
If you are considering careers similar to being a Server, here are a few related roles to explore:
These include Fine Dining Server, Backwaiter, and Waiter/Waitress positions, which involve related hospitality and customer service responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Servers in Burlington
Servers should be aware of the labor laws and tax regulations to ensure they are working under fair conditions and managing their finances properly.
- Visit the U.S. Department of Labor website for federal labor laws and regulations.
- Check the State of Vermont's Department of Labor website for state-specific worker rights and employment laws.
- For local regulations and resources, the City of Burlington's official website is a valuable resource.