Server Salary in New Bedford, MA
Servers in New Bedford, MA, in 2025, earn approximately $11.00 per hour, which translates to about $440.00 per week, $1,906.67 per month, and $22,880.00 per year.
The demand for Servers in New Bedford is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job market with increasing opportunities in the hospitality sector.
How Much Does a Server Make in New Bedford, MA?
The salary of a Server in New Bedford varies by experience and employer, ranging from entry-level positions to top earners.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $9.00 | $360.00 | $1,560.00 | $18,720.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $11.00 | $440.00 | $1,906.67 | $22,880.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $12.00 | $480.00 | $2,080.00 | $24,960.00 |
Do Servers in New Bedford Earn Tips?
Servers typically earn tips in addition to their base salary, which can significantly increase their overall income. In New Bedford, Servers can expect to earn an extra $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and customer volume.
Server Salary in New Bedford vs. National Average
Nationally, Servers earn an average of about $14.50 per hour, equating to roughly $30,160 per year.
Comparatively, Servers in New Bedford earn slightly less at $11.00 per hour and about $22,880 annually, which reflects regional cost of living differences and local market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near New Bedford for Servers
The pay for Servers can vary within nearby neighborhoods and districts:
- Downtown: $12.00 per hour
- North End: $11.50 per hour
Servers working in Downtown New Bedford typically receive the highest wages among nearby areas.
What Influences a Server’s Salary in New Bedford?
Several key factors affect how much a Server earns in New Bedford:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Servers who demonstrate excellent customer service and efficiency typically earn higher pay and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants and upscale venues often offer higher wages and better tipping opportunities compared to fast food or casual eateries.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Working peak hours, weekends, or busy seasons can lead to increased tip income.
- Local Economic Conditions: The overall health of the hospitality industry and regional economic strength impact wages.
How To Become a Server in New Bedford
Becoming a Server in New Bedford involves several practical steps to build your qualifications:
- Gain Basic Food Handling Knowledge: Enroll in a ServSafe Food Handler Certification course to master essential food safety standards.
- Obtain Alcohol Service Training: Completing the TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification will prepare you to manage alcohol service responsibly.
- Consider Hospitality or Culinary Education: Programs such as the Bristol Community College Culinary Arts Program and the UMass Dartmouth Hospitality Management Program provide valuable skills relevant to serving and restaurant operations.
- Gain Experience: Start with entry-level serving jobs to build customer service skills and learn restaurant dynamics.
Top Employers Hiring Servers in New Bedford
Several well-known employers in New Bedford actively hire Servers, including:
- Country Club of New Bedford
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
Establishments That Servers in New Bedford Work At
Servers in New Bedford usually find positions in a variety of restaurant and hospitality settings:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These often provide consistent, moderate wages and steady tips.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: Pay tends to be lower, but there can be high customer turnover for more tip opportunities.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Generally offer the highest wages and tips due to upscale clientele and higher menu prices.
- Hotels and Event Venues: Serving in these locations may offer opportunities for higher income during events and banquets.
The type of establishment significantly impacts a Server’s salary and tip potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in New Bedford for Servers
If you're interested in careers related to Serving, here are some similar roles you may want to explore:
These roles include Waiter/Waitress, Busser, and Fine Dining Server, each with unique duties but closely related in the hospitality sector.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Servers in New Bedford
Servers in New Bedford must comply with both state and federal labor laws, along with understanding tax obligations.
- Information on Massachusetts labor laws, including wage standards and workplace protections, is available on the Massachusetts government website.
- For federal labor regulations and worker rights, the U.S. Department of Labor website provides comprehensive resources.