Server Salary in Louisville, KY
Servers in Louisville, KY, in 2025, earn approximately $16.09 per hour, which translates to about $643.60 per week, $2,788.93 per month, and $33,467.20 per year.
The job demand for Servers in Louisville is growing at a healthy rate of 6% per year, indicating increasing opportunities and a positive outlook for this position in the local market.
How Much Does a Server Make in Louisville, KY?
The salary of a Server in Louisville can vary depending on experience and the specific employer. Below is a breakdown of wages according to experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $9.16 | $366.40 | $1,580.53 | $18,995.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.09 | $643.60 | $2,788.93 | $33,467.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $28.28 | $1,131.20 | $4,892.80 | $58,822.40 |
Do Servers in Louisville Earn Tips?
Yes, Servers in Louisville typically earn tips which can significantly supplement their base wage. It’s common for Servers to earn an extra $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and shift. Tips provide a vital boost to overall earnings in this role.
Server Salary in Louisville vs. National Average
Nationally, Servers earn an average hourly wage of about $17.49, which amounts to around $36,379.20 annually.
When comparing this to Louisville's average of $16.09 per hour and $33,467.20 yearly, Servers in Louisville earn slightly less than the national average. This difference can be influenced by cost of living, local demand, and employer types.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Louisville for Servers
Servers in certain Louisville neighborhoods tend to earn more, reflecting local economic conditions:
- Downtown Louisville: $17.50 per hour
- Highlands: $16.80 per hour
These areas often have a higher concentration of upscale restaurants and hospitality venues, which translate into better compensation for Servers.
What Influences a Server’s Salary in Louisville?
Several factors can impact how much a Server earns in Louisville, including:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Servers often command higher base wages and tend to secure shifts at higher-end establishments.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants usually offer better pay and more tips compared to casual dining or fast food.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts might offer higher earning potential due to busier service and more generous tipping.
- Skills and Certifications: Knowledge of food safety, proper alcohol service, and customer service can add value.
How To Become a Server in Louisville
Starting a career as a Server in Louisville involves several steps to build qualifications and improve job prospects:
- Complete Local Culinary or Hospitality Programs: Consider programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Jefferson Community and Technical College or the Hospitality Management Program at Sullivan University that offer foundational training and hospitality education.
- Obtain Food Safety and Alcohol Service Certifications: Earning certifications like ServSafe Food Handler and TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) can be essential for employment, especially where alcohol service is involved.
- Gain Practical Work Experience: Entry-level roles in local restaurants or food service businesses help build skills and workplace knowledge.
Top Employers Hiring Servers in Louisville
The following employers are known for hiring Servers in the Louisville area:
- Jeff Ruby Culinary Entertainment
- The Connor Group
- Mitchell's Fish Market
- WOB Bar & Kitchen
- CONNORS STEAK and SEAFOOD
Establishments That Servers in Louisville Work At
Servers in Louisville typically work in a variety of settings, each influencing salary potential:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Offer higher wages and more generous tipping opportunities due to upscale clientele.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Establishments: May offer stable hourly wages but lower tipping potential.
- Bars and Nightclubs: Servers here might earn more through alcohol-related tips but often work late hours.
- Hotels and Event Venues: Can provide consistent work and sometimes higher tips during events.
The type of establishment can affect not only the base salary but also the amount earned from tips, making the choice of workplace important for Servers’ income.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Louisville for Servers
If you are interested in roles similar to Server, consider these careers which share common skills or responsibilities:
These include Barista, Bartender, and Backwaiter positions, all related hospitality jobs which require a focus on customer service and beverage or food delivery.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Servers in Louisville
It’s crucial for Servers to understand relevant labor laws and tax responsibilities in Louisville to ensure fair employment and legal compliance.
- Visit the Federal website for the U.S. Department of Labor for information on federal labor regulations.
- State-specific employment resources and labor law details are available at the Kentucky Career Center.
- The Louisville local government website provides additional city-specific regulations and employment guidance.