Server Salary in Kansas City, KS
Servers in Kansas City, KS, in 2025, earn approximately $24.64 per hour, which translates to about $985.60 per week, $4,270.93 per month, and $51,251.20 per year.
The job outlook for Servers in Kansas City looks positive, with a growth rate of 5% per year, indicating a steadily increasing demand for service staff in this vibrant hospitality market.
How Much Does a Server Make in Kansas City, KS?
The salary of a Server in Kansas City varies based on experience and employer, but the range below provides a good overview of earnings for different levels.
| 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 Kansas City Earn Tips?
Yes, Servers commonly earn tips, which can significantly boost their income. On average, a Server in Kansas City might make an additional $10 per hour in tips, meaning tips can sometimes nearly double their hourly earnings depending on the venue and customer volume.
Server Salary in Kansas City vs. National Average
Nationally, Servers earn about $17.60 per hour, which breaks down to roughly $36,608 per year.
Compared to this, Servers in Kansas City make a notably higher hourly wage of $24.64 and a yearly salary of $51,251.20, reflecting either higher living costs or a stronger hospitality sector in this region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Kansas City for Servers
If you're considering work near Kansas City, here are some areas that offer higher pay for Servers:
- Gardner: $21.37 per hour
- Lenexa: $19.40 per hour
Gardner leads with better hourly pay, making it an attractive option for Servers willing to commute.
What Influences a Server’s Salary in Kansas City?
Experience has a major impact; seasoned Servers often command better wages and more tips due to their service skills and rapport with customers.
Skills such as multi-tasking, customer service excellence, and knowledge of menu items also enable higher earnings.
The type of establishment is critical; fine dining venues tend to pay more than casual dining or fast food, both in base pay and tips.
Shift timings influence pay—working evenings, weekends, and holidays can come with premium compensation.
Lastly, local demand and competition in Kansas City’s thriving hospitality scene affect overall salary levels.
How To Become a Server in Kansas City
Starting your career as a Server in Kansas City involves a combination of practical skills, certifications, and knowledge.
- Consider enrolling in programs like the Johnson County Community College Culinary Arts Program to gain culinary and beverage handling skills that enhance your employability.
- The Kansas City Kansas Community College Hospitality Management Program offers relevant education on restaurant operations and customer service.
- Obtain a Kansas Food Handler Permit, which is required for food safety compliance when handling food in Kansas.
- Securing a TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification is highly beneficial for Servers responsible for alcohol service, helping prevent over-serving and underage drinking.
Top Employers Hiring Servers in Kansas City
Many well-known restaurant groups and chains in Kansas City actively hire Servers, including:
- Chili's
- Diversified Restaurant Group
- Applebee's
- IHOP
- Texas Roadhouse
Establishments That Servers in Kansas City Work At
Servers find job opportunities across various types of establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These provide steady work with moderate base salaries but often good tip income.
- Fast Casual Venues: Salaries here might be slightly lower, but positions often require less formal training and faster-paced service.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Typically offer higher base pay and substantially more tip potential due to the upscale clientele and service expectations.
- Bars and Nightclubs: Servers here may earn good tips, especially during busy weekend nights, but wages may vary widely.
The type and prestige of the establishment directly affect both base pay and tip income, making choice of workplace a key factor for potential earnings.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Kansas City for Servers
If you're interested in career paths similar to Server, consider exploring roles with overlapping skills and opportunities:
These include Fine Dining Server, Waiter/Waitress, and Backwaiter, all of which share skills related to customer service and food and beverage delivery.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Servers in Kansas City
Understanding labor laws and tax requirements is essential for Servers to protect their rights and manage income.
- The Kansas Department of Labor website provides authoritative information on state labor laws, minimum wage, overtime regulations, and workplace standards.
- For federal tax guidelines and filing resources, visit the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) website, which offers tools and explanations relevant to employees and independent contractors alike.