Server Salary in Charleston, SC
Servers in Charleston, SC, in 2025, earn approximately $21.13 per hour, which translates to about $845.20 per week, $3,662.53 per month, and $43,950.40 per year.
The demand for Servers in Charleston is growing at a rate of about 5% per year, indicating positive job growth and increasing opportunities in the local hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Server Make in Charleston, SC?
The salary of a Server in Charleston can vary depending on experience and the employer. Below is a general overview of earnings based on different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.78 | $471.20 | $2,034.67 | $24,486.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $21.13 | $845.20 | $3,662.53 | $43,950.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $37.91 | $1,516.40 | $6,561.73 | $78,852.80 |
Do Servers in Charleston Earn Tips?
Yes, Servers in Charleston typically earn tips in addition to their base pay. They can make an extra $10 per hour in tips or sometimes more depending on the establishment and clientele, significantly boosting their overall income.
Server Salary in Charleston, SC vs. National Average
Nationally, Servers earn an average of around $17.61 per hour, which amounts to approximately $36,628.80 per year.
Compared to the national average, Servers in Charleston enjoy a higher hourly wage of $21.13 and an annual salary of about $43,950.40, reflecting the local market demand and possibly the city’s hospitality culture.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Charleston for Servers
When looking at nearby areas, Server salaries in locations close to Charleston show some variation:
- Downtown Charleston: $22.50 per hour
- Mount Pleasant: $21.02 per hour
Servers working in Downtown Charleston tend to earn slightly more than those in Mount Pleasant, making it a potentially better-paying location within the region.
What Influences a Server’s Salary in Charleston?
A Server’s salary in Charleston is influenced by several key factors:
- Experience and Skills: More experienced Servers with excellent customer service and multitasking abilities tend to earn higher wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale restaurants or busy tourist spots often results in higher base wages and more generous tips than casual dining.
- Shift and Hours Worked: Servers working evening, weekend, or holiday shifts may earn shift differentials, raising their overall pay.
- Customer Volume and Location: Restaurants in high-foot-traffic areas or catering to affluent clients typically generate higher tips.
- Certifications and Training: Knowledge of responsible alcohol service and food safety can make a Server more desirable and potentially increase earnings.
How To Become a Server in Charleston
To become a Server in Charleston, consider these steps to increase your employability and salary potential:
- Develop Relevant Skills: Focus on strong communication, multitasking, and customer service skills essential for effective serving.
- Education and Training: While formal education is not always required, culinary or hospitality courses can be beneficial. Institutions like the Culinary Institute of Charleston offer programs covering food and beverage service.
- Obtain Certifications: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is widely recognized and often required, ensuring knowledge of food safety. Additionally, the TIPS (Training for Intervention Procedures) Certification helps demonstrate responsible alcohol service skills.
- Gain Experience: Many Servers start by working in fast-casual or casual dining to build experience before moving to higher-end establishments.
- Network: Connect with hospitality professionals and attend local job fairs to discover opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Servers in Charleston
The following are prominent employers actively hiring Servers in Charleston:
- Halls Chophouse
- Husk Restaurant
- The Ordinary
- FIG
- Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar
Establishments That Servers in Charleston Work At
Servers in Charleston typically find jobs in various types of establishments, including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These offer the highest wages and tips due to upscale clientele and menu pricing.
- Casual Dining: Rooms with moderate pay but often steady work hours.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: Generally offer lower pay and limited tipping opportunities.
- Hotels and Resorts: May include benefits and steady schedules with competitive salaries depending on the property’s level.
- Bars and Nightclubs: Focused on beverage service with potential for high tips, especially with alcohol license training.
The type of establishment significantly affects a Server’s salary potential and earning through tips.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Charleston for Servers
For those interested in roles similar to Server, several related positions might be worth exploring.
These include Bartender, Backwaiter, and Fine Dining Server roles, which involve customer interaction and food service in different capacities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Servers in Charleston
Servers in Charleston should be informed about local labor laws and tax responsibilities for a smooth and compliant work experience.
- Visit the U.S. Department of Labor website for federal labor standards, including minimum wage and overtime rules.
- For state-specific regulations, check the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation.
- The City of Charleston site provides local ordinances, licensing requirements, and business resources.