Server Salary in Gulfport, MS
Servers in Gulfport, MS, in 2025, earn approximately $11.61 per hour, which translates to about $464.40 per week, $2,012.40 per month, and $24,148.80 per year.
The demand for Servers in Gulfport is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities and salary growth in the restaurant and hospitality sector locally.
How Much Does a Server Make in Gulfport, MS?
Server salaries in Gulfport vary based on experience and skill level. Here's a breakdown of what you might expect at 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 | $1,900.00 | $22,880.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $12.00 | $480.00 | $2,080.00 | $24,960.00 |
Do Servers in Gulfport Earn Tips?
Yes, Servers in Gulfport generally earn tips which can significantly increase their total earnings. On average, they can make an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the type of establishment and customer volume.
Server Salary in Gulfport vs. National Average
Nationally, Servers earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, translating to about $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Servers in Gulfport earn less per hour at about $11.61 and an annual salary of approximately $24,148.80. This difference reflects regional cost of living and market demand variations.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Gulfport for Servers
Nearby areas tend to offer slightly different pay rates for Servers:
- Downtown Gulfport: $12.50 per hour
- West Gulfport: $13.00 per hour
Working in these neighborhoods can provide better pay due to higher customer traffic and commercial activity.
What Influences a Server’s Salary in Gulfport?
Several factors shape the salary a Server can earn in Gulfport:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Servers with excellent customer service skills tend to earn higher wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining and upscale restaurants usually pay more and offer generous tipping opportunities compared to fast-food or casual dining.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening, weekend, and holiday shifts often come with higher pay or better tips.
- Certifications and Training: Having certifications related to food safety or alcohol service can increase employability and pay.
- Local Economy: Economic prosperity in Gulfport impacts restaurant business success and, consequently, wages and tips for Servers.
How To Become a Server in Gulfport
To start a career as a Server in Gulfport, consider the following steps:
- Get Basic Food Service Training: Programs like the ServSafe Certification Course and ServSafe Food Handler Certification offer essential knowledge on food safety and handling.
- Earn Responsible Alcohol Service Certification: Required for serving alcohol responsibly at many establishments.
- Gain Experience: Entry-level jobs at casual or fast-food restaurants help build practical skills.
- Consider Culinary Education: Schools like Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College Culinary Arts Program provide valuable training for broader hospitality knowledge.
Top Employers Hiring Servers in Gulfport
Popular restaurants and chains often hiring Servers in Gulfport include:
- Applebee's
- Texas Roadhouse
- Chili's
- Buffalo Wild Wings
Establishments That Servers in Gulfport Work At
Servers in Gulfport typically work in various settings such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often provide a steady income with moderate tips.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Faster paced but generally lower tips compared to more formal settings.
- Fine Dining Establishments: These locations usually pay better wages and enable Servers to earn higher tips due to premium service.
- Bars and Nightclubs: May provide additional income opportunities through tips and alcohol service.
The type of establishment greatly influences both the hourly rate and tip potential of a Server.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Gulfport for Servers
If you're interested in roles similar to Server, consider these related careers:
These include Waiter/Waitress, Fine Dining Server, and Banquet Server, each offering unique responsibilities and salary ranges within the hospitality field.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Servers in Gulfport
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is crucial for Servers to protect their rights and manage earnings.
- Federal website for labor laws and regulations provides comprehensive guidance on worker rights, minimum wage, overtime, and workplace safety.
- Mississippi Department of Employment Security offers state-specific labor and employment information relevant to Servers.
- City of Gulfport official website contains local resources including employment policies and labor standards.