Server Salary in Indianapolis, IN
Servers in Indianapolis, IN, in 2025, earn approximately $17.03 per hour, which translates to about $681.20 per week, $2,951.87 per month, and $35,422.40 per year.
The demand for Servers in Indianapolis is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities and growth in the food service industry in this region.
How Much Does a Server Make in Indianapolis, IN?
The salary of a Server in Indianapolis can vary depending on experience and employer, but here is an overview of earning potential at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $9.20 | $368.00 | $1,593.33 | $19,136.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.03 | $681.20 | $2,951.87 | $35,422.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $31.50 | $1,260.00 | $5,460.00 | $65,520.00 |
Do Servers in Indianapolis Earn Tips?
Yes, Servers typically earn tips in addition to their base pay. In Indianapolis, Servers can expect to earn approximately $10 per hour extra in tips, which can significantly boost their total earnings and make this occupation more lucrative.
Server Salary in Indianapolis vs. National Average
The national average hourly wage for Servers is approximately $17.03 per hour, with an annual salary around $35,422.40.
Servers in Indianapolis earn about the same as the national average hourly wage at $17.03 per hour and yearly salary of $35,422.40, showing that Indianapolis offers competitive pay in this field based on nationwide benchmarks.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Indianapolis for Servers
Nearby areas with higher wages for Servers include:
- Carmel: $20.73 per hour
- Greenfield: $18.14 per hour
Servers in Carmel enjoy notably higher wages than those in Indianapolis, while Greenfield offers moderately better pay.
What Influences a Server’s Salary in Indianapolis?
The salary of a Server in Indianapolis can be influenced by several important factors:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Servers with strong communication and customer service skills typically earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and fine dining venues usually pay better than fast casual or casual dining spots.
- Shift and Hours Worked: Working evening or weekend shifts can increase income due to higher tip potentials and shift differentials.
- Location: Servers working in higher-paying areas or busy districts can take home more.
- Certifications: Food handling or alcohol service certifications can make candidates more attractive to employers and affect earnings.
How To Become a Server in Indianapolis
Pursuing a career as a Server in Indianapolis involves several practical steps to improve job prospects and earning potential.
Acquiring relevant education is beneficial, such as programs like Ivy Tech Community College Hospitality Administration Program, which focuses on restaurant management skills. Purdue University's Hospitality and Tourism Management program also prepares students for roles in the service industry including server positions.
Additionally, earning certifications can boost your qualifications. Notable certifications include the ServSafe Food Handler Certification, emphasizing food safety compliance, and the Indiana Alcohol Server Training Program, which educates servers on responsible alcohol service required in Indiana.
Gaining practical experience by working in entry-level roles within restaurants or hospitality settings and developing strong customer service skills can significantly help.
Top Employers Hiring Servers in Indianapolis
Several well-known restaurant groups frequently hire Servers in Indianapolis:
- Darden Restaurants
- LongHorn Steakhouse
- Buffalo Wild Wings
Establishments That Servers in Indianapolis Work At
Servers in Indianapolis typically find employment across a range of dining establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These often provide consistent schedules and moderate wages with regular tipping opportunities.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: While the pay may sometimes be lower, busier environments can result in good tip earnings.
- Fine Dining Venues: Known for higher base wages and greater tip potentials, often requiring higher skills and experience.
- Hotels and Event Catering: These settings may offer steady hours and benefits, with tips depending on the event type and clientele.
The establishment type can greatly affect salary, with Fine Dining generally offering the highest earning potential for Servers in the area.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Indianapolis for Servers
If you are considering other roles similar to Server, here are some closely related hospitality jobs:
These careers include Fine Dining Server, Backwaiter, and Bartender, each with different responsibilities and earning potentials within the hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Servers in Indianapolis
Servers should be familiar with labor laws and tax requirements relevant to their employment:
- Details on federal labor laws can be found on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Specific state regulations for Indiana are available at the State of Indiana official website.
- The City of Indianapolis provides local government resources and employment information at indy.gov.