Server Salary in Macon, GA
Servers in Macon, GA, in 2025, earn approximately $12.08 per hour, which translates to about $483.20 per week, $2,093.87 per month, and $25,126.40 per year.
The employment outlook for Servers in Macon is positive, with job demand expected to grow around 5% per year, indicating expanding opportunities in the hospitality and food service industry throughout the region.
How Much Does a Server Make in Macon, GA?
The salary of a Server in Macon varies according to experience and the establishment they work for. Here’s an overview of earnings at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $7.49 | $299.60 | $1,293.07 | $15,516.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $12.08 | $483.20 | $2,093.87 | $25,126.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.48 | $779.20 | $3,365.33 | $40,521.60 |
Do Servers in Macon Earn Tips?
Yes, Servers typically earn tips on top of their hourly wages. In Macon, Servers can earn approximately $8 to $15 per hour in tips, depending on the type of restaurant and customer volume, which significantly boosts their overall income.
Server Salary in Macon vs. National Average
Nationally, Servers earn an average of about $14.50 per hour, which amounts to roughly $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Servers in Macon earn slightly less at an average of $12.08 per hour and $25,126.40 annually. This difference may reflect the lower cost of living and local market conditions in Macon.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Macon for Servers
Nearby areas offering higher pay for Servers include:
- Downtown Macon: $15.50 per hour
- North Macon: $17.60 per hour
Servers working in these areas can expect better pay rates compared to the broader Macon region, often due to higher-end establishments and greater demand.
What Influences a Server’s Salary in Macon?
Several factors can impact how much a Server earns in Macon:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Servers with excellent customer service skills tend to command higher wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Working at fine dining or upscale restaurants usually provides higher pay and more substantial tips than casual or fast-food venues.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts often offer higher pay or more generous tips compared to less busy hours.
- Certifications: Food safety and alcohol service certifications may increase employability and wage potential.
- Customer Volume and Location: Busy locations and areas with affluent clientele can result in higher earnings.
How To Become a Server in Macon
To build a successful career as a Server in Macon, consider the following steps:
- Gain Relevant Hospitality Training: Programs such as the Central Georgia Technical College Culinary Arts Program and Macon-Bibb County Career Center Hospitality Training offer excellent foundational knowledge in food service and customer relations.
- Obtain Certifications: Earning credentials like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification demonstrates competence in food safety and responsible alcohol service, which employers value.
- Develop Strong Communication Skills: The ability to interact pleasantly and efficiently with customers is vital for success and better tips.
- Start Entry-Level: Consider entry-level roles such as Hostess or Busser to gain experience before moving up to Server.
- Network and Seek Opportunities: Engaging with local hospitality events or job fairs can help connect with potential employers.
Top Employers Hiring Servers in Macon
Popular employers in Macon frequently hiring Servers include:
- Waffle House
- Olive Garden
- Applebee's
- Carrabba's Italian Grill
- Idle Hour Country Club
Establishments That Servers in Macon Work At
Servers are usually employed in a wide range of establishments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Offer moderate wages with variable tipping depending on customer volume.
- Fast Casual Venues: May provide less tipping opportunities but typically have higher base wages.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Provide higher base wages and larger tips due to upscale clientele.
- Country Clubs and Banquet Halls: Can offer premium pay and tips, especially during events.
Each establishment type affects the Server’s potential income, with fine dining and exclusive clubs generally offering the best overall compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Macon for Servers
If you are interested in roles similar to a Server, you may want to explore these related careers in Macon:
These include Waiter/Waitress, Fine Dining Server, and Banquet Server, each offering unique environments and earning potentials within the hospitality field.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Servers in Macon
Servers in Macon should be informed about labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and maximize their earnings.
- For federal employment laws and regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The Georgia Department of Labor offers state-specific labor information, worker rights, and resources.
- Local information and community resources can be found on the Macon-Bibb County official website.