Server Salary in Newport-News, VA
Servers in Newport-News, VA, in 2026, earn approximately $18.54 per hour, which equals about $741.60 per week, $3,213.60 per month, and $38,563.20 per year.
The job market for Servers in Newport-News is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating increasing demand and opportunities for individuals pursuing this career in the area.
How Much Does a Server Make in Newport-News, VA?
The earnings of a Server in Newport-News vary based on experience, skills, and employer, but the following table outlines typical salaries by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.41 | $496.40 | $2,145.47 | $25,145.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.54 | $741.60 | $3,213.60 | $38,563.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $30.23 | $1,209.20 | $5,239.47 | $62,878.40 |
Do Servers in Newport-News Earn Tips?
Servers typically earn tips in addition to their base pay. In Newport-News, Servers can often make an extra $10 or more per hour in tips, significantly increasing their overall income depending on the establishment and customer volume.
Server Salary in Newport-News vs. National Average
Nationally, Servers earn approximately $17.50 per hour and about $36,400 per year.
Compared to the national average, Servers in Newport-News earn slightly more at an average hourly rate of $18.54 and an annual salary of about $38,563.20.
This difference may be due to local market conditions, cost of living, and tipping culture in Newport-News.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Newport-News for Servers
Nearby areas offering higher pay rates for Servers include:
- Area 1: $19.57 per hour
- Area 2: $19.32 per hour
Servers willing to commute to these areas might find better hourly earnings compared to Newport-News.
What Influences a Server’s Salary in Newport-News?
Several factors can impact how much a Server earns in Newport-News:
- Experience and Skills: More experienced Servers with strong customer service and multitasking skills tend to earn higher wages and attract better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants generally pay more and offer greater tipping possibilities compared to casual or fast-food venues.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts may pay higher hourly rates or yield more tips due to higher customer traffic.
- Certifications: Food safety and alcohol service certifications can improve employability and salary potential.
- Location: Servers working in busy urban or tourist-heavy areas of Newport-News may command higher earnings.
How To Become a Server in Newport-News
To establish a successful career as a Server in Newport-News, consider these steps:
- Acquire Basic Food Safety Knowledge: Obtaining the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensures understanding of critical food safety practices.
- Complete Hospitality or Culinary Programs: Programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Thomas Nelson Community College provide foundational skills valuable for service roles.
- Gain Experience: Entry-level positions in restaurants or cafes allow practical experience and skill development.
- Become TIPS Certified: The TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification is recommended for responsible alcohol service and enhances job opportunities.
- Consider Hospitality Management Education: The Hospitality Management Program at Old Dominion University can open doors for advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Servers in Newport-News
Some prominent employers in Newport-News recruiting Servers include:
- The Melting Pot
- Red Robin
- Carrabba's Italian Grill
- Olive Garden
- Buffalo Wild Wings
Establishments That Servers in Newport-News Work At
Servers in Newport-News are employed in a variety of foodservice settings, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These establishments often provide steady shifts and moderate tipping potential.
- Fast Casual Venues: Generally feature quicker service with lower tips but higher customer turnover.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Offer higher base wages and significantly better tipping opportunities, impacting total earnings.
- Bars and Nightclubs: Servers who handle alcohol may earn additional tips and may require specific certifications.
The type and prestige of the establishment considerably influence a Server's total compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Newport-News for Servers
If you're exploring similar career paths to that of a Server, here are some closely related roles:
These roles include Fine Dining Server, Backwaiter, and Waiter/Waitress, which involve related skills and responsibilities in the hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Servers in Newport-News
Servers should be informed about labor regulations and tax obligations at federal, state, and local levels.
- Consult the Federal Department of Labor website for comprehensive labor laws and wage guidelines.
- Visit the Virginia state government site for information on state-specific employment regulations.
- For local ordinances and business regulations affecting employment in Newport-News, check the Newport News official government website.