Server Salary in Fayetteville, AR
Servers in Fayetteville, AR, in 2025, earn approximately $17.37 per hour, which translates to about $694.80 per week, $3,010.80 per month, and $36,129.60 per year.
The job demand for Servers in Fayetteville is showing positive growth, increasing at about 5% per year. This indicates a healthy and expanding market for service staff in local eateries and hospitality venues.
How Much Does a Server Make in Fayetteville, AR?
The salary of a Server in Fayetteville can vary by experience and individual employers, but the following breakdown provides a clear idea of what to expect across typical career stages.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.00 | $440.00 | $1,906.67 | $22,880.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.37 | $694.80 | $3,010.80 | $36,129.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $28.37 | $1,134.80 | $4,911.47 | $58,969.60 |
Do Servers in Fayetteville Earn Tips?
Yes, Servers typically earn tips in addition to their base wages. In Fayetteville, a Server can earn an extra $10 to $15 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and shift. This can significantly boost the overall income, sometimes amounting to nearly or over $100 per day in tips alone.
Server Salary in Fayetteville, AR vs. National Average
The national average hourly pay for Servers is about $17.37 per hour, with an annual average salary of $36,129.60. Fayetteville's average hourly wage and yearly salary closely align with the national numbers, indicating competitive pay rates for Servers in the city.
Local cost of living and business size might influence wages slightly higher or lower than national figures in Fayetteville.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Fayetteville for Servers
Nearby cities offer varying wages for Servers, which include:
- Springdale: $22.12 per hour
- Rogers: $18.36 per hour
Springdale, paying the highest among these, could be an attractive area for Servers seeking increased earning opportunities close to Fayetteville.
What Influences a Server’s Salary in Fayetteville?
Several important factors impact how much a Server can earn in Fayetteville:
- Experience and Skill Level: Veteran Servers with excellent communication and upselling skills generally command higher wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Higher-end restaurants and fine dining venues usually pay higher wages and generate bigger tips compared to casual or fast-food outlets.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts can yield higher earnings due to increased customer volume and tip potential.
- Local Economy and Tourism: Fayetteville’s economic activity and visitor influx significantly affect the demand for Servers, influencing pay levels.
- Certification and Training: Having food safety knowledge or hospitality certifications can improve job prospects and wages.
How To Become a Server in Fayetteville
Getting started as a Server in Fayetteville involves several steps to build skills and credentials:
- Hospitality Education: Enroll in programs such as the University of Arkansas Hospitality Management Program, which offers comprehensive training for restaurant roles.
- Culinary Training: The Northwest Arkansas Community College Culinary Arts Program provides valuable hands-on education beneficial for working knowledge in food and beverage service.
- Obtain Required Certifications: Secure essential credentials like the Arkansas Food Handler's Permit, mandatory for all food service employees.
- Earn ServSafe Certification: This nationally recognized certification demonstrates understanding of food safety standards and is highly valued by employers.
- Gain Experience: Start in entry-level roles or internships to develop customer service abilities and familiarity with restaurant operations.
Top Employers Hiring Servers in Fayetteville
Several well-known companies and restaurants in Fayetteville frequently seek Servers, including:
- Red Robin
- The Daily Beet
- First Watch
- Golden Corral Corporation
- JJ's Grill
Establishments That Servers in Fayetteville Work At
Servers typically find work in a variety of hospitality settings in Fayetteville, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Generally offer steady hours and decent tips, with moderate wages.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: May offer more flexible shifts but often lower hourly pay and tips.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Usually provide higher base pay and significantly increased tip potential.
- Bars and Cafés: Earnings heavily depend on customer volume and tipping culture at these venues.
The type of establishment directly correlates to total earnings, with fine dining typically affording the highest Server salaries and tips in Fayetteville.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Fayetteville for Servers
If you are considering careers similar to Server, here are some related roles to explore:
These include Fine Dining Server, Backwaiter, and Waiter/Waitress positions, which share similar duties and skills within the hospitality sector.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Servers in Fayetteville
Servers in Fayetteville should be informed about federal, state, and local labor laws to understand their rights and obligations.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for comprehensive information.
- Check outlines and updates on state labor laws at the State of Arkansas official website.
- For local Fayetteville labor resources and regulations, the City of Fayetteville official website is a helpful resource.