Server in Grand Rapids, MI
Servers in Grand Rapids, MI, in 2025, earn approximately $19.78 per hour, which translates to about $791.20 per week, $3,428.53 per month, and $41,142.40 per year.
The demand for Servers in Grand Rapids is growing at a rate of 5% per year, indicating positive job prospects and a healthy market for hospitality and food service positions in the area.
How Much Does a Server Make in Grand Rapids, MI?
The salary of a Server in Grand Rapids can vary greatly depending on experience, skills, and the venue, but the following breakdown provides a general overview of earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.55 | $502.00 | $2,173.33 | $26,104.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.78 | $791.20 | $3,428.53 | $41,142.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $31.18 | $1,247.20 | $5,408.53 | $64,854.40 |
Do Servers in Grand Rapids Earn Tips?
Servers typically earn substantial tips on top of their base salary. In Grand Rapids, Servers can expect to earn an extra $10-$15 per hour in tips depending on the establishment, shift, and customer volume. This can significantly boost total income.
Server Salary in Grand Rapids, MI vs. National Average
Nationally, Servers earn on average about $17.50 per hour, with an annual salary around $36,400.
Compared to the national average, Servers in Grand Rapids earn slightly more, with an average of $19.78 per hour and yearly earnings of about $41,142.40. This suggests that the area offers competitive compensation for Servers.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Grand Rapids for Servers
Nearby areas offer varying pay scales for Servers:
- Downtown Grand Rapids: $20.50 per hour
- East Grand Rapids: $21.00 per hour
Servers working in East Grand Rapids tend to earn the highest pay in the vicinity, while Downtown is also a lucrative area.
What Influences a Server’s Salary in Grand Rapids?
The salary of a Server in Grand Rapids is affected by several factors:
- Experience and Seniority: More experienced Servers who have built strong customer service skills usually earn higher wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants, steakhouses, or lounges often pay more than fast casual or family dining establishments.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts can offer higher pay rates or better tip opportunities compared to daytime shifts.
- Skills and Certifications: Knowledge of wine, cocktail service, or special cuisine can increase a Server’s value and salary.
- Local Demand: Areas with higher customer traffic and tourism generally pay better.
How To Become a Server in Grand Rapids
Becoming a Server in Grand Rapids involves several key steps:
- Gain Basic Education and Customer Service Skills: While a high school diploma is often sufficient, strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential.
- Complete Culinary or Hospitality Programs: Programs such as the Grand Rapids Community College Culinary Arts Program or the Secchia Institute for Culinary Education provide useful food service knowledge and practical experience.
- Obtain Relevant Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensure food safety compliance, and the TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification focuses on responsible alcohol service, both being valuable for Servers.
- Gain Entry-Level Experience: Many Servers start as bussers or hosts to learn the industry before transitioning into full serving roles.
Top Employers Hiring Servers in Grand Rapids
Grand Rapids features many well-known dining venues seeking skilled Servers, including:
- The Chop House
- Ruth's Chris Steak House
- Leo's Seafood Restaurant & Bar
- The Kitchen by Wolfgang Puck
- Reserve Wine & Food
Establishments That Servers in Grand Rapids Work At
Servers in Grand Rapids are employed across a variety of food service establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer steady work but typically lower base pay compared to fine dining.
- Fast Casual Chains: Often have faster-paced environments with moderate wages and tips.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Provide higher pay and large tipping potential, especially from affluent clientele.
- Bars and Lounges: May pay well with additional tip opportunities from alcoholic beverage sales.
The type of establishment makes a significant difference in earning potential, with fine dining and upscale bars usually offering the best salaries and tips.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Grand Rapids for Servers
If you’re interested in similar hospitality roles in Grand Rapids, here are some related careers to consider:
These include Bartender, Backwaiter, and Waiter/Waitress positions, which share overlapping skills and work environments.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Servers in Grand Rapids
Servers should be well-informed about labor laws and tax regulations that affect their earnings and workplace rights:
- The Official Michigan government website provides detailed information on labor laws, minimum wage, and employment regulations.
- For federal guidelines, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website for comprehensive resources on worker protections and labor standards.