Server Salary in Murfreesboro, TN
Servers in Murfreesboro, TN, in 2025, earn approximately $19.70 per hour, which translates to about $788.00 per week, $3,414.67 per month, and $40,976.00 per year.
Job demand for Servers in Murfreesboro is projected to be growing moderately at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for career opportunities in this field within the local hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Server Make in Murfreesboro, TN?
The salary of a Server in Murfreesboro varies depending on experience and workplace, but here is an overview across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.28 | $491.20 | $2,128.53 | $25,480.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.70 | $788.00 | $3,414.67 | $40,976.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $31.61 | $1,264.40 | $5,459.73 | $65,728.80 |
Do Servers in Murfreesboro Earn Tips?
Servers often earn a significant portion of their income through tips. In Murfreesboro, this can amount to an estimated an extra $8 to $15 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and service quality, making tipping an important aspect of a Server's total compensation.
Server Salary in Murfreesboro vs. National Average
Nationally, Servers earn an average of about $17.54 per hour, translating to approximately $36,483.20 per year.
Comparatively, Servers in Murfreesboro earn a slightly higher hourly wage of $19.70 and an annual salary of $40,976.00, reflecting competitive pay in this region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Murfreesboro for Servers
When considering nearby areas, Server salaries can differ:
- Downtown Murfreesboro: $20.50 per hour
- The Avenue Murfreesboro: $21.00 per hour
Servers working in The Avenue Murfreesboro tend to earn the highest wages in the vicinity, likely due to the bustling dining scene and upscale establishments present there.
What Influences a Server’s Salary in Murfreesboro?
Experience plays a key role; seasoned Servers typically command higher wages and attract more generous tips.
Skills and Customer Service Ability also impact earning potential, as proficient Servers are more likely to get repeat clients and higher tips.
The type of establishment is important: fine dining restaurants generally offer higher base pay and more substantial tips compared to casual or fast-food venues.
Location within Murfreesboro, such as working in busy downtown areas or popular shopping centers, can also influence earnings due to varying customer traffic and spending behavior.
How To Become a Server in Murfreesboro
Starting a career as a Server involves a few key steps:
- Acquire Basic Food Service Training: Enrolling in programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Tennessee College of Applied Technology or the Hospitality Management Program at Middle Tennessee State University can provide foundational knowledge.
- Obtain Required Certifications: The Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission Server Permit is mandatory to legally serve alcohol.
- Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is nationally recognized and often required to ensure proper handling and hygiene.
- Gain Experience: Many Servers start in entry-level positions or part-time roles to develop their skills and work ethic.
Top Employers Hiring Servers in Murfreesboro
Several popular restaurant chains and local establishments in Murfreesboro are actively hiring Servers:
- Texas Roadhouse
- Red Lobster
- Cracker Barrel
- Olive Garden
- Chili's Grill & Bar
Establishments That Servers in Murfreesboro Work At
Servers in Murfreesboro typically work across various types of establishments including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer steady scheduling and moderate pay, often supplemented by tips.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Usually, these have faster-paced environments with somewhat lower base wages but relatively good earning opportunities through volume.
- Fine Dining Establishments: These venues generally pay higher base salaries and offer the potential for substantial tips, leading to higher total earnings.
- Bars and Nightclubs: Servers here might benefit from higher tip averages, especially during busy night hours.
The type of venue and customer base can significantly affect a Server's salary and tipping possibilities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Murfreesboro for Servers
If you are exploring careers related to serving, you might also consider roles such as:
These include Fine Dining Server, Waiter/Waitress, and Backwaiter, which share many skills and responsibilities with Server roles.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Servers in Murfreesboro
It is important for Servers in Murfreesboro to understand both state and federal labor laws.
- You can find detailed information about Tennessee labor laws and employment regulations on the State of Tennessee's official website.
- For federal labor law information including wage and hour rules, visit the U.S. Department of Labor's website.