Server Salary in Charleston, WV
Servers in Charleston, WV, in 2026, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The demand for Servers in Charleston is growing steadily by about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job availability in the local hospitality sector.
How Much Does a Server Make in Charleston, WV?
The salary of a Server in Charleston 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) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,433.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,933.33 | $35,360.00 |
Do Servers in Charleston Earn Tips?
Servers typically earn a significant portion of their income through tips. In Charleston, a Server can expect to earn an extra approximately $10 per hour in tips, which can substantially boost their overall earnings.
Server Salary in Charleston vs. National Average
Nationally, Servers earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, translating to about $30,160 per year.
When compared to the national average, Servers in Charleston earn slightly less with an hourly rate of $13.90 and an annual salary of $28,912.00, reflecting the local cost of living and market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Charleston for Servers
When looking at nearby areas, server salaries vary slightly:
- Downtown Charleston: $15.50 per hour
- South Hills: $17.60 per hour
Servers working in South Hills tend to earn the highest pay among nearby locations, making it an attractive area for job seekers.
What Influences a Server’s Salary in Charleston?
Several factors can impact how much a Server earns in Charleston:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Servers often receive higher hourly rates and better tips.
- Establishment Type: Fine dining restaurants tend to pay more in wages and tips compared to casual or fast food venues.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts can sometimes yield higher tips and better pay.
- Customer Service Skills: Excellent interpersonal skills can lead to higher tips and opportunities for advancement.
- Location: Working in higher-paying areas around Charleston can improve overall earnings.
How To Become a Server in Charleston
Becoming a successful Server in Charleston involves several steps to build skills and credentials:
- Obtain a Food Handler's Permit, which is mandatory for all food service workers in West Virginia to ensure proper food safety knowledge.
- Consider obtaining ServSafe Certification, a nationally recognized credential that educates food service workers about food safety and sanitation standards.
- Gain practical experience by working in entry-level positions such as host or busser.
- Enhance your knowledge by participating in programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Carver Career and Technical Education Center or the Hospitality Management Program at BridgeValley Community and Technical College for broader hospitality education.
- Develop strong communication and customer service skills to excel in the role.
Top Employers Hiring Servers in Charleston
Charleston hosts a variety of employers actively recruiting Servers, including:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Servers in Charleston Work At
Servers in Charleston typically find employment in:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These establishments offer a steady flow of customers and moderate pay, often supplemented by tips.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: Pay is generally lower but with faster-paced environments and potential for high tips during peak hours.
- Fine Dining: Offers higher wages and higher tip potential due to upscale clientele.
- Bars and Nightclubs: May offer higher tips, especially during busy weekend nights.
The type of establishment has a notable impact on a Server's total compensation and working conditions.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Charleston for Servers
If you're interested in careers similar to Servers, here are some related roles to consider:
These include Waiter/Waitress, Fine Dining Server, and Backwaiter roles, which share similar responsibilities and skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Servers in Charleston
Servers in Charleston should be aware of several important resources related to labor laws and taxes:
- For federal labor laws, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website which provides comprehensive information on employee rights and standards.
- The West Virginia state website offers resources on state-specific labor laws and employment services.
- The Charleston local government website provides information on local regulations and services relevant to employment.