Server Salary in Lexington, KY
Servers in Lexington, KY, in 2025, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The demand for Servers in Lexington is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive job market and increasing opportunities for those in the food service industry in the region.
How Much Does a Server Make in Lexington, KY?
The salary of a Server in Lexington varies by experience level and employer. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings based on different stages in a Server's career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,438.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,947.33 | $35,360.00 |
Do Servers in Lexington Earn Tips?
Yes, Servers typically earn tips which can significantly boost their income. On average, a Server in Lexington might earn an extra $10 per hour in tips, which is an important component of their overall earnings and reflects their direct interaction and service quality with customers.
Server Salary in Lexington vs. National Average
Nationally, Servers earn an average of about $14.50 per hour, which amounts to approximately $30,160 annually.
Comparing this to Lexington, KY, Servers earn slightly less hourly at $13.90, with annual pay around $28,912. This difference reflects local living cost variations and regional market demand for food service workers.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lexington for Servers
Nearby areas offer varied pay rates for Servers, which may be attractive for those considering commuting or relocation:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- Beaumont: $17.60 per hour
Servers working near Beaumont can expect higher pay rates compared to other local areas, highlighting pockets of better earning potential close to Lexington.
What Influences a Server’s Salary in Lexington?
A Server’s salary in Lexington is influenced by several key factors, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Servers with refined customer service skills typically command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Servers working at upscale or fine dining restaurants often earn more base pay and better tips compared to those at casual dining or fast food venues.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts may offer shift differentials, increasing earnings.
- Customer Volume and Location: Busier locations or higher-cost areas translate into more generous tipping and higher pay scales.
- Certifications: Some employers value food safety knowledge or alcohol service certification, which can impact pay.
How To Become a Server in Lexington
Starting a career as a Server in Lexington includes several important steps:
- Obtain Required Certifications: Firstly, a Server must obtain the Kentucky Food Handler Certification to ensure compliance with food safety laws.
- Gain Food Safety Knowledge: Achieving the nationally recognized ServSafe Certification is highly recommended and valued by employers.
- Complete Relevant Education: Pursuing courses or programs such as the Bluegrass Community and Technical College Culinary Arts Program or the University of Kentucky Hospitality Management and Tourism Program can provide a beneficial foundation in hospitality and customer service.
- Acquire Practical Experience: Many Servers begin in entry-level food service roles to build skills in customer interaction and service efficiency.
Top Employers Hiring Servers in Lexington
Lexington’s restaurant and hospitality scene includes notable employers looking to hire skilled Servers:
- Malone's
- Jeff Ruby's Steakhouse
- Tony's of Lexington
- Dudley's on Short
- Carson's Food & Drink
Establishments That Servers in Lexington Work At
Servers in Lexington typically find employment across a spectrum of establishments such as:
- Casual dining restaurants: These offer steady work hours but generally modest salaries and tips.
- Fast casual establishments: Faster-paced with slightly lower average tips and base pay.
- Fine dining restaurants: Servers here often earn significantly higher base wages and receive larger tips due to upscale clientele.
- Bars and lounges: These venues may offer higher tips, especially during busy hours.
Where a Server works plays a large role in earnings, with upscale restaurants and busy bars offering the best opportunities for higher income.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lexington for Servers
Those interested in exploring careers similar to Server might consider roles such as:
These include Backwaiter, Fine Dining Server, and Waiter/Waitress positions, offering similar customer service roles within the hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Servers in Lexington
It’s important for Servers to understand the legal and tax environment that impacts their employment:
- The U.S. Department of Labor website offers comprehensive information on federal labor laws and rights.
- The Kentucky Career Center provides state-specific resources related to labor regulations and employment standards.
- The Lexington city website includes details on local ordinances and services applicable to workers.