Server Salary in Fayetteville, NC
Servers in Fayetteville, NC, in 2025, earn approximately $14.76 per hour, which translates to about $590.40 per week, $2,558.40 per month, and $30,700.80 per year.
The demand for Servers in Fayetteville is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the food service industry annually.
How Much Does a Server Make in Fayetteville, NC?
The salary of a Server in Fayetteville varies by experience and skill level. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect across different stages of your career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $9.00 | $360.00 | $1,560.00 | $18,720.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $11.00 | $440.00 | $1,906.67 | $22,880.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $12.00 | $480.00 | $2,080.00 | $24,960.00 |
Do Servers in Fayetteville Earn Tips?
Servers in Fayetteville typically earn tips as a significant portion of their income. On average, a Server can make an additional $10 or more per hour in tips, which greatly enhances overall earnings.
Server Salary in Fayetteville vs. National Average
Nationally, Servers make about $17.00 per hour, corresponding to an annual salary of around $35,360.
Compared to the national average, Servers in Fayetteville earn less hourly and annually, reflecting regional cost of living and economic differences.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Fayetteville for Servers
Some areas near Fayetteville offer higher pay rates for Servers:
- Downtown Fayetteville: $15.50 per hour
- Haymount: $16.00 per hour
Working in these neighborhoods can lead to increased earnings and potentially better tips due to greater customer traffic or upscale clientele.
What Influences a Server’s Salary in Fayetteville?
Several factors play a crucial role in determining how much a Server can earn in Fayetteville:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Servers with strong customer service skills often secure higher wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Restaurants that are casual, fast casual, or upscale dining offer different pay scales depending on clientele and service expectations.
- Shift Timing and Hours: Working peak hours, nights, or weekends may result in higher income due to increased customer volume and tip potential.
- Local Economy and Demand: Economic conditions and job availability in Fayetteville affect salary levels.
How To Become a Server in Fayetteville
To start and grow a career as a Server in Fayetteville, consider the following steps:
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is widely recognized and often required by employers for compliance with safety standards.
- Acquire Alcohol Service Permits: For establishments serving alcohol, a North Carolina Alcohol Beverage Control Commission Permit is mandatory.
- Complete Hospitality or Culinary Programs: Fayetteville Technical Community College’s Culinary Arts Program and Sandhills Community College’s Hospitality Management Program offer valuable education and training that enhance employability.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level server positions or internships at local restaurants can provide hands-on training and build customer service skills.
Top Employers Hiring Servers in Fayetteville
Some major restaurant chains and establishments actively hiring Servers in Fayetteville include:
- Chili's
- Red Lobster
- IHOP
- Texas Roadhouse
- Olive Garden
Establishments That Servers in Fayetteville Work At
Servers in Fayetteville find work in a range of settings, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These often provide steady hours with moderate pay and tip opportunities.
- Fast Casual Chains: Focused on quicker service, servers here may earn less per hour but benefit from higher customer volume.
- Upscale and Fine Dining: These establishments typically offer higher wages and substantial tips but demand higher skill levels.
- Bars and Nightclubs: Serving alcohol can lead to higher tips but requires compliance with licensing regulations.
The type of establishment greatly impacts the Server’s earnings potential and work environment.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Fayetteville for Servers
If you are interested in roles with similar responsibilities or career growth potential, consider these related hospitality positions:
These include Waiter/Waitress, Fine Dining Server, and Backwaiter, all of which involve customer service and food service responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Servers in Fayetteville
Servers should be familiar with the legal and tax requirements that affect their work:
- Federal labor laws and regulations can be reviewed at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- State-specific labor laws related to wages, hours, and workplace safety are detailed at the North Carolina Department of Labor website.
- The City of Fayetteville official website provides local regulations and employment information relevant to Servers.