Server Salary in Lees-Summit, MO
Servers in Lees-Summit, MO, in 2025, earn approximately $18.40 per hour, which translates to about $736.00 per week, $3,189.33 per month, and $38,272.00 per year.
The demand for Servers in Lees-Summit is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and expanding opportunities in this service industry role.
How Much Does a Server Make in Lees-Summit, MO?
The salary of a Server in Lees-Summit varies depending on experience level and employer, but the following breakdown offers a clear view of typical earnings.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.16 | $486.40 | $2,103.73 | $25,292.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.40 | $736.00 | $3,189.33 | $38,272.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $27.84 | $1,113.60 | $4,823.47 | $57,868.80 |
Do Servers in Lees-Summit Earn Tips?
Yes, Servers in Lees-Summit typically earn tips in addition to their base pay. It's common for Servers to make an extra $10 to $15 per hour in tips, which can significantly boost their overall income depending on the location and quality of the establishment where they work.
Server Salary in Lees-Summit vs. National Average
Nationally, Servers earn an average of about $17.20 per hour, which equates to around $35,776 per year.
Compared to the national figures, Servers in Lees-Summit earn slightly more, with an average hourly wage of $18.40 and a yearly salary of $38,272. This difference may reflect local economic conditions and the demand for experienced Servers in the region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lees-Summit for Servers
Nearby areas offer varying pay rates for Servers:
- Downtown: $19.50 per hour
- New Longview: $20.00 per hour
Servers working in New Longview tend to earn the highest hourly wages, while Downtown also offers competitive pay rates, reflecting local business activity and clientele.
What Influences a Server’s Salary in Lees-Summit?
Several important factors determine how much a Server can earn in Lees-Summit:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Servers who excel in customer service and upselling can command higher wages and attract better tipping.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, fine dining venues, and busy bars often pay more and provide larger tips compared to casual dining or fast-food places.
- Shift and Hours Worked: Evening, weekend, and holiday shifts may offer higher earnings due to increased customer volume.
- Certifications and Training: Server-specific certifications and hospitality skills can help increase earning potential.
- Local Economy and Demand: The economic health of Lees-Summit and local competition among establishments influence wages.
How To Become a Server in Lees-Summit
Starting a career as a Server in Lees-Summit involves several steps to improve employability and potential salary:
- Gain Experience: Many Servers start in entry-level food service roles to gain practical skills and knowledge of the hospitality industry.
- Consider Hospitality and Culinary Programs: Programs such as the Metropolitan Community College Culinary Arts Program and Johnson County Community College Hospitality Management provide valuable education related to food service and customer interactions.
- Obtain Food Safety and Alcohol Service Certifications: Certifications like ServSafe Food Handler Certification and TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification are widely recognized and often required for serving alcohol or handling food safely.
- Develop Strong Communication and Customer Service Skills: Excelling at interacting with guests and managing orders efficiently helps increase tips and professional reputation.
Top Employers Hiring Servers in Lees-Summit
Lees-Summit features several prominent employers regularly hiring skilled Servers:
- Chili's
- 54th Street
- Third Street Social
- Pearl Tavern
Establishments That Servers in Lees-Summit Work At
Servers find employment opportunities across diverse establishments, each influencing earning potential differently:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These provide consistent shifts and modest pay often supplemented by tips.
- Fast Casual Chains: Servers here may earn lower base pay but can gain valuable customer service experience.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Eateries: These venues typically offer higher base pay and potential for larger tips, rewarding skilled servers.
- Bars and Nightclubs: Fast-paced environments where servers can earn significant tips, particularly during peak hours.
The type of establishment often affects hours, customer interaction, and tipping opportunities, which all factor into overall compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lees-Summit for Servers
If you are interested in careers related to Servers, here are some similar roles you might consider:
These include Waiter/Waitress, Fine Dining Server, and Backwaiter positions, which involve similar customer-facing duties and skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Servers in Lees-Summit
Understanding labor laws and tax regulations is crucial for Servers working in Lees-Summit to ensure rights and compliance.
- Explore federal labor regulations on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Missouri state labor laws and employment resources are available at labor.mo.gov.
- For local community support and regulations, visit the Lees-Summit official government site.