Server Salary in Norman, OK
Servers in Norman, OK, in 2025, earn approximately $15.24 per hour, which translates to about $609.60 per week, $2,641.60 per month, and $31,699.20 per year.
The demand for Servers in Norman is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for those seeking employment in the food service industry in this area.
How Much Does a Server Make in Norman, OK?
The salary for a Server in Norman varies depending on experience and skill level. Below is an overview of typical earnings at different levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.44 | $417.60 | $1,809.60 | $21,811.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.24 | $609.60 | $2,641.60 | $31,699.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.26 | $890.40 | $3,843.73 | $46,300.80 |
Do Servers in Norman, OK Earn Tips?
Servers typically earn tips in addition to their base salary. In Norman, they can expect to make an extra $5 to $15 per hour in tips depending on the establishment, customer volume, and service quality. Tips can significantly boost overall earnings.
Server Salary in Norman, OK vs. National Average
Nationally, Servers earn an average of about $17.72 per hour, which sums up to approximately $36,857.60 per year.
Compared to this, Servers in Norman earn a slightly lower hourly wage of $15.24 and an annual salary of about $31,699.20. This difference can be influenced by local economic factors and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Norman for Servers
Looking at areas near Norman, Server salaries can vary slightly:
- Downtown Norman: $16.50 per hour
- University Area: $17.00 per hour
Servers working in the University Area tend to earn the highest wages nearby, likely reflecting demand from student and faculty populations.
What Influences a Server’s Salary in Norman, OK?
Several factors play a role in influencing how much a Server in Norman earns, including:
- Experience and Skills: More experienced Servers with excellent customer service and upselling abilities tend to make higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining venues usually pay more than fast food or casual restaurants.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts often come with opportunity for higher tips.
- Location: Servers working near the University or downtown areas might earn more due to higher customer traffic.
- Certifications: Having food safety or alcohol handling certifications can open up better job prospects and wages.
How To Become a Server in Norman, OK
Starting a career as a Server involves a combination of training, licenses, and practical experience. Here are some ways:
- Hospitality Education: Programs like the University of Oklahoma’s Hospitality Management Program provide valuable training for food service roles.
- Culinary Skills Training: Moore Norman Technology Center Culinary Arts Program can enhance your food handling and service expertise.
- Required Certifications: Obtaining an Oklahoma Alcohol Server License is essential for working in venues serving alcohol.
- Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is widely recognized and often required by employers.
- Gain Experience: Starting as a host or busser can help build experience and lead to Server positions.
Top Employers Hiring Servers in Norman, OK
Popular establishments in Norman looking for qualified Servers include:
- Land Run Grill on Tecumseh
- Levy Sector
- Sooner Station
- Denny's
- IHOP
Establishments That Servers in Norman, OK Work At
Servers in Norman find work in a variety of places:
- Casual Dining: Restaurants where Servers often build steady relationships with regular customers and have moderate earnings.
- Fast Casual: These generally offer quicker service and lower base pay but with consistent tips.
- Fine Dining: These places offer higher wages and more tips but require exemplary service skills.
- Bars and Nightclubs: Servers here earn higher tips but face a fast-paced environment.
The type of establishment impacts earnings considerably, with fine dining and busy bars offering the best compensation packages.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Norman, OK for Servers
If you're considering similar roles to Server, there are related careers in the hospitality field worth exploring:
These include Bartender, Barista, and Backwaiter, which require overlapping skills and may offer different earning potentials.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Servers in Norman, OK
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is crucial for Servers in Norman to protect their rights and manage finances effectively.
- Oklahoma’s official state website provides essential information on employment laws: www.ok.gov.
- Federal labor regulations are outlined by the U.S. Department of Labor: www.dol.gov.
- The City of Norman’s website offers local ordinances and resources relevant to workers: www.normanok.gov.