Server Salary in Durham, NC
Servers in Durham, NC, in 2025, earn approximately $15.20 per hour, amounting to roughly $608.00 per week, $2,634.67 per month, and $31,616.00 per year.
The job demand for Servers in Durham is growing moderately at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for individuals looking to enter or advance in this field.
How Much Does a Server Make in Durham, NC?
The salary for a Server in Durham varies based on experience level and establishment type. Below is a breakdown of earnings from entry-level positions to top earners.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.32 | $532.80 | $2,304.80 | $27,657.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.20 | $608.00 | $2,634.67 | $31,616.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $25.85 | $1,034.00 | $4,467.17 | $53,768.00 |
Do Servers in Durham Earn Tips?
Yes, Servers typically earn an additional $10 to $15 per hour in tips, which can significantly increase their total income. This tip income varies depending on the restaurant type, shift, and customer volume, but it represents a substantial portion of a Server's overall earnings.
Server Salary in Durham vs. National Average
Nationally, Servers earn an average of about $17.50 per hour, or $36,400 annually.
Compared to the national average, Servers in Durham earn slightly less per hour at $15.20, and correspondingly lower annual salaries. This difference can be influenced by local cost of living and regional market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Durham for Servers
Nearby regions to Durham offer varying wages for Servers:
- Downtown Durham: Approximately $17.50 per hour
- Ninth Street: Roughly $16.80 per hour
Servers working in these neighborhoods tend to earn more than the city average, likely due to higher-end dining establishments and greater customer traffic.
What Influences a Server’s Salary in Durham?
Several key factors shape the salary of a Server in Durham.
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Servers with polished customer service skills typically earn higher wages and receive larger tips.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants often pay more per hour and generate higher tip income than casual or fast-food places.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts generally offer better earning potential through increased customer volume and tip opportunities.
- Certifications: Food safety knowledge or alcohol service permits can make Servers more employable and potentially increase their pay.
- Local Demand: Economic conditions and tourism in Durham influence job availability and wage levels for Servers.
How To Become a Server in Durham
Pursuing a career as a Server in Durham involves several steps.
- Gain Relevant Education: Programs like the Durham Technical Community College Hospitality Management Program provide training in restaurant operations and customer service.
- Culinary Understanding: Courses such as the Wake Technical Community College Culinary Arts Program help build knowledge relevant to food service roles.
- Obtain Certifications: Earning the ServSafe Food Handler Certification is often required to ensure understanding of food safety.
- Alcohol Service Permits: Servers in North Carolina must secure the North Carolina Alcohol Beverage Control Commission (ABC) Permit to legally serve alcoholic drinks.
- Gain Experience: Starting in entry-level waitstaff roles and refining communication skills can lead to advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Servers in Durham
Several restaurants and food service companies in Durham are actively hiring Servers, including:
- Maggiano's Little Italy
- Chubby's Tacos
- Dashi
- Ted's Montana Grill
- Aramark
Establishments That Servers in Durham Work At
Servers typically find work across various types of dining venues in Durham:
- Casual Dining: Often a good entry point with moderate wages and tip potential.
- Fast Casual: Usually provides steady hours but often lacks tips compared to full service venues.
- Fine Dining: Offers the highest wages and tip earnings due to upscale menus and clientele.
- Bars and Nightclubs: Servers here often have the chance to earn larger tips during busy night shifts.
The type of establishment greatly affects both base salary and tip income, influencing overall compensation levels for Servers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Durham for Servers
If you are interested in roles similar to Server, consider these related positions:
These include Bartender, Barista, and Bellhop, each sharing customer service aspects with the Server role and offering unique career paths.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Servers in Durham
Servers should familiarize themselves with federal and state labor regulations to ensure fair work conditions.
- Federal website for labor laws and regulations: Provides comprehensive information on minimum wage, overtime, and workplace rights.
- North Carolina Department of Labor website: Offers state-specific labor laws, workplace standards, and safety regulations relevant to Servers.