Server Salary in Denver, CO
Servers in Denver, CO, in 2025, 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 Denver is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job outlook and increasing opportunities in the hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Server Make in Denver, CO?
The salary of a Server in Denver can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general overview of 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 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Servers in Denver Earn Tips?
Yes, Servers typically earn tips as a significant portion of their income, often adding an extra $10 to $15 per hour in tips. This additional earning varies based on the establishment and customer generosity, making tipping an important component of their overall compensation.
Server Salary in Denver vs. National Average
Nationally, Servers earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which equals approximately $30,160 annually.
In comparison, Servers in Denver earn slightly less on average, with an hourly wage of $13.90 and a yearly salary of about $28,912.
This slight difference may be influenced by local economic factors and the cost of living in Denver compared to other parts of the country.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Denver for Servers
Nearby areas show varying pay rates for Servers:
- Downtown Denver: $15.50 per hour
- Cherry Creek: $17.60 per hour
Servers working in Cherry Creek can expect notably higher compensation compared to other Denver areas, reflecting the upscale nature of that neighborhood.
What Influences a Server’s Salary in Denver?
Experience and Skills: Experienced Servers with refined customer service and upselling skills earn more than entry-level employees.
Type of Establishment: Fine dining and upscale restaurants typically offer better pay and larger tips compared to fast food or casual dining.
Shift Timing: Evening, weekend, and holiday shifts often pay higher wages or come with increased tips due to busy hours.
Local Economic Conditions: The Denver cost of living and local demand for hospitality staff affect the compensation Servers receive.
How To Become a Server in Denver
Starting as a Server in Denver involves building the right skills and qualifications:
- Training Programs: Consider hospitality or culinary programs like the Emily Griffith Technical College Culinary Arts Program, which can provide comprehensive culinary and service training.
- Hospitality Education: The Metropolitan State University of Denver Hospitality Program offers education in service management and restaurant operations, beneficial for career advancement.
- Certifications: Obtaining certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification, which ensures knowledge of food safety practices, is often required.
- TIPS Certification: This certification for responsible alcohol service is critical for Servers working in establishments that serve alcohol.
Top Employers Hiring Servers in Denver
Popular employers seeking Servers in Denver include:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Servers in Denver Work At
Servers commonly find positions in a range of establishments:
- Fast Food Restaurants: Often offer lower base pay but high turnover; tipping is usually minimal.
- Casual Dining: Moderate wages with steady tip income, often a starting point for many Servers.
- Fine Dining: Higher wages and tips reflecting the upscale service and clientele.
- Bars and Nightclubs: Tend to offer higher tipping potential, especially during busy times.
The type of establishment impacts both base salary and tip earnings, influencing overall compensation significantly.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Denver for Servers
Those interested in roles related to Serving might explore similar career paths:
These include Fine Dining Server, Waiter/Waitress, and Backwaiter roles, all of which share similarities with the Server position and offer various earning potentials.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Servers in Denver
Servers should stay informed about labor laws and tax regulations that affect their work in Denver.
- Federal labor rules and regulations can be found on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For specifics on Colorado labor laws and employment resources, visit the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment.
- The City and County of Denver official site offers useful information on local regulations impacting Servers.