Server Salary in Eugene, OR
Servers in Eugene, OR, in 2026, earn approximately $16.72 per hour, which translates to about $668.80 per week, $2,898.13 per month, and $34,777.60 per year.
There is a positive outlook for Servers in Eugene with a 5% growth rate per year, indicating that the demand for this role is expected to increase steadily in the local hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Server Make in Eugene, OR?
The salary of a Server in Eugene can vary based on experience and employer type. Here's an overview of typical earnings at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.05 | $562.00 | $2,427.33 | $29,224.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.72 | $668.80 | $2,898.13 | $34,777.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $26.05 | $1,042.00 | $4,506.67 | $54,184.00 |
Do Servers in Eugene Earn Tips?
Yes, Servers typically earn tips, which can significantly boost their income. On average, a Server in Eugene can earn an extra $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and clientele, which adds a substantial amount to their overall earnings.
Server Salary in Eugene vs. National Average
Nationally, Servers earn an average of around $16.72 per hour, which is about $34,777.60 per year.
Servers in Eugene earn about the same as the national average, making the city competitive for those seeking employment in this role without significant disparities compared to broader U.S. figures.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Eugene for Servers
If you're considering work as a Server near Eugene, some neighborhoods offer higher wages:
- Downtown Eugene: $17.50 per hour
- University District: $18.00 per hour
These areas tend to have bustling hospitality sectors and higher-paying opportunities than other parts of the city.
What Influences a Server’s Salary in Eugene?
Several factors affect how much a Server can earn in Eugene:
- Experience: More experienced Servers typically earn higher base wages and receive better tips.
- Skills: Strong interpersonal skills, upselling ability, and efficient service can increase earnings.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants often pay higher wages and provide better tipping opportunities than casual or fast food locations.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts may have higher tip potentials and sometimes pay differentials.
- Certifications and Training: Food-handling certs, alcohol service permits, and hospitality training can improve employability and pay.
How To Become a Server in Eugene
Starting as a Server in Eugene involves a few important steps:
- Get Food Safety Certification: Obtain the Oregon Food Handler's Card, which is mandatory for all food service workers in the state.
- Alcohol Service Permit: For serving alcohol, the OLCC Alcohol Service Permit is required and issued by the Oregon Liquor Control Commission.
- Complete Hospitality Training: Programs like the Oregon Restaurant & Lodging Association Training provide valuable skills for excellent service and career advancement.
- Consider Culinary Arts Programs: Lane Community College offers a Culinary Arts Program that also prepares individuals for roles like Server, enhancing job readiness.
Top Employers Hiring Servers in Eugene
If you're seeking Server positions in Eugene, top employers include:
- Cafe Yumm!
- Albertsons
- Texas Roadhouse
- Red Lobster
- Olive Garden
Establishments That Servers in Eugene Work At
Servers in Eugene work in a wide variety of settings that influence their salary and tips such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These provide steady work with moderate base pay and tipping opportunities.
- Fast Casual Establishments: Faster paced with lower base pay; tips can vary.
- Fine Dining: Offers higher base salaries and much greater tip income due to upscale clientele.
- Bars and Pubs: Tips can be generous, especially during busy shifts, though base pay might be lower.
Choosing the type of establishment can affect the overall compensation due to differences in base pay and tipping patterns.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Eugene for Servers
For those interested in careers aligned with Server roles, consider these related positions:
These include Waiter/Waitress, Fine Dining Server, and Backwaiter — roles that share customer service and hospitality responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Servers in Eugene
Serving roles in Eugene must comply with various labor laws and tax regulations. Some useful resources include:
- State of Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries website for labor laws and worker rights.
- Oregon Liquor Control Commission's official site covering permits and alcohol service regulations.
- Oregon Department of Human Services offering employment and training program resources.