Server Salary in Oak Park, IL
Servers in Oak Park, IL, in 2025, earn approximately $22.07 per hour, which translates to about $882.80 per week, $3,825.47 per month, and $45,905.60 per year.
The demand for Servers in Oak Park is growing at a rate of 5% per year, indicating a positive job market with increasing opportunities in the hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Server Make in Oak Park, IL?
The salary of a Server in Oak Park varies based on experience and establishment type. Here's a breakdown of the typical earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.67 | $466.80 | $2,017.20 | $24,213.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $22.07 | $882.80 | $3,825.47 | $45,905.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $41.75 | $1,670.00 | $7,208.33 | $86,840.00 |
Do Servers in Oak Park Earn Tips?
Yes, Servers typically earn tips in addition to their base wage. On average, a Server in Oak Park can earn about $10-$15 per hour in tips, which significantly boosts overall earnings.
Server Salary in Oak Park, IL vs. National Average
Nationally, Servers earn an average of around $17.25 per hour, amounting to approximately $35,880 per year.
Compared to the national average, Servers in Oak Park earn more, with a typical hourly wage of $22.07 and an annual salary of about $45,905.60. This difference can be due to the local cost of living and dining industry standards.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Oak Park for Servers
Nearby areas offer varying salaries for Servers, including:
- Downtown Oak Park: $25 per hour
- South Oak Park: $20 per hour
Servers working in Downtown Oak Park generally earn higher hourly wages compared to other nearby regions.
What Influences a Server’s Salary in Oak Park?
Several factors influence a Server's salary in Oak Park:
- Experience and Skills: More experienced Servers with excellent customer service skills often command higher wages and larger tips.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants and upscale venues typically pay higher base wages and generate larger tip income than casual eateries.
- Shift and Hours Worked: Working peak hours or weekends can result in higher earnings due to increased customer volume and tip potential.
- Location within Oak Park: Servers in busier, high-end neighborhoods or downtown areas tend to earn more.
- Certifications and Training: Completing certification programs may boost employability and salary prospects.
How To Become a Server in Oak Park
To start a career as a Server in Oak Park, consider the following steps:
- Gain Training through Hospitality Programs: For instance, Triton College offers a comprehensive hospitality program including restaurant management and service courses that provide practical skills.
- Complete High School Culinary Tracks: Oak Park-River Forest High School Culinary Arts Program offers foundational training in service and hospitality suitable for aspiring Servers.
- Obtain Required Certifications: The Illinois Food Handler Certification is mandatory for food service employees, ensuring safe handling knowledge.
- Earn BASSET Certification: This certification is required for Servers in Illinois authorized to serve alcohol responsibly.
- Gain Work Experience: Starting as a busser or host can help develop customer service experience essential for Servers.
Top Employers Hiring Servers in Oak Park
Oak Park hosts a variety of prominent employers actively hiring Servers, including:
- Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurants
- Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
- Brookdale Senior Living
- Maya Del Sol
- Cozy Corner
Establishments That Servers in Oak Park Work At
Servers in Oak Park typically find employment in diverse establishments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer steady work hours with moderate base pay and tips.
- Fine Dining Venues: Servers here often earn significantly more through higher base wages and generous tip pools.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: While base pay may be competitive, tip opportunities might be limited compared to full-service restaurants.
- Bars and Wineries: The environment can lead to higher tip earnings, especially during peak social hours.
The type of establishment significantly impacts a Server’s overall earnings, with fine dining usually providing the highest salary potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Oak Park for Servers
If you're interested in roles similar to Server, consider these related positions that share overlapping skills and responsibilities.
These include Waiter/Waitress, Fine Dining Server, and Bartender—each involving customer interaction and service skills with varying income ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Servers in Oak Park
Servers in Oak Park should be informed about labor regulations and tax responsibilities at multiple levels:
- Visit the U.S. Department of Labor official website for federal labor laws including wage requirements and workplace rights.
- Check the Illinois Department of Employment Security website for state-specific labor laws and employment services.
- Consult the Village of Oak Park official website for local government information and regulations impacting workers.