Server Salary in Killeen, TX
Servers in Killeen, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $13.14 per hour, which translates to about $525.60 per week, $2,277.60 per month, and $27,331.20 per year.
The demand for Servers in Killeen is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing job opportunities in this hospitality sector annually.
How Much Does a Server Make in Killeen, TX?
The salary of a Server in Killeen varies depending on experience and skill level, but the following breakdown gives an overview of earnings across different career stages.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $7.37 | $294.80 | $1,274.13 | $15,290.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $13.14 | $525.60 | $2,277.60 | $27,331.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.43 | $937.20 | $4,041.20 | $48,734.40 |
Do Servers in Killeen Earn Tips?
Yes, Servers in Killeen typically earn tips in addition to their base pay. Tips can amount to an extra $10 per hour or more, significantly increasing overall earnings and providing a noteworthy part of the total compensation.
Server Salary in Killeen vs. National Average
Nationally, Servers earn an average hourly wage of $13.14, which equals about $27,331.20 annually.
In Killeen, TX, Servers’ pay is right on par with the national average for both hourly wages and annual salary, reflecting competitive compensation for the area’s cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Killeen for Servers
Nearby areas offer some variations in pay for Servers:
- Downtown Killeen: $15.50 per hour
- West Killeen: $17.60 per hour
These areas provide higher wages compared to the general Killeen average, likely due to more upscale venues or increased demand in these neighborhoods.
What Influences a Server’s Salary in Killeen?
Several key factors influence the earnings of a Server in Killeen:
- Experience and Skill Level: Servers with excellent customer service skills and experience handling busy or high-end shifts tend to earn more.
- Type of Establishment: Working in fine dining or busy chain restaurants may come with higher base pay and better tipping opportunities than lower-end or fast food venues.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening shifts and weekend hours can offer more tips and special shift differentials.
- Certifications: Knowledge of responsible alcohol service, especially with TABC Certification, can lead to better job prospects.
- Local Demand: A growing hospitality industry in Killeen is driving demand and supporting better salaries over time.
How To Become a Server in Killeen
To become a successful Server in Killeen, consider the following steps:
- Complete Food Safety Training: Obtaining the Texas Food Handler Certification is mandatory for food service employees and demonstrates knowledge of food safety.
- Earn the TABC Certification: If serving alcoholic beverages, this certification is required by Texas law and educates servers on responsible alcohol service.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level jobs or volunteering in food service can provide valuable hands-on experience.
- Consider Hospitality Education: Enrolling in programs like the Central Texas College Culinary Arts Program or the Texas A&M University-Central Texas Hospitality Management Program can improve your skills and career options in hospitality.
Top Employers Hiring Servers in Killeen
If you are looking for Server job openings in Killeen, some of the prominent employers include:
- Red Lobster
- Olive Garden
- Chili's
- Texas Roadhouse
- Little Tokyo Japanese Restaurant
Establishments That Servers in Killeen Work At
Servers in Killeen commonly work in various types of establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These places offer steady work hours with average pay and tipping potential.
- Fine Dining Venues: Higher-end restaurants often provide better hourly wages and more generous tips.
- Fast Casual and Chain Restaurants: Typically have lower base pay but sometimes more consistent schedules.
- Bars and Nightclubs: Servers here might earn significant tips, especially during busy weekend nights, with possible earnings boosted by TABC Certification.
The type of establishment influences both base salary and tipping potential, which together affect total income.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Killeen for Servers
For those interested in careers related to Server positions, the following roles might be of interest:
These include Fine Dining Server, Backwaiter, and Waiter/Waitress—all roles with overlapping duties and salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Servers in Killeen
Servers should stay informed about relevant labor laws and tax requirements for working in Killeen and Texas in general.
- For federal labor regulations and wage standards, visit the U.S. Department of Labor (federal website).
- The Texas Workforce Commission (state website) provides information on Texas-specific labor laws and benefits.
- The City of Killeen Official Website (local government) can be useful for local ordinances and employment resources.