Server Salary in Providence, RI
Servers in Providence, RI, in 2025, earn approximately $23.40 per hour, which translates to about $936.00 per week, $4,056.00 per month, and $48,672.00 per year.
The demand for Servers in Providence is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy job market with increasing opportunities for individuals in this role.
How Much Does a Server Make in Providence, RI?
The salary of a Server in Providence can vary depending on experience and employer type, but here is a general overview of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $23.40 | $936.00 | $4,056.00 | $48,672.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $38.04 | $1,521.60 | $6,589.60 | $79,123.20 |
Do Servers in Providence Earn Tips?
Servers typically earn tips in addition to their hourly wages. In Providence, Servers can make approximately $10 to $15 per hour in tips, which can significantly increase their total earnings depending on the establishment and shifts worked.
Server Salary in Providence vs. National Average
Nationally, Servers earn an average of around $17.50 per hour, translating to about $36,400 per year.
When compared to the national average, Servers in Providence earn more, at about $23.40 per hour and $48,672 annually.
This increase likely reflects Providence's local market conditions and cost of living factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Providence for Servers
Nearby areas offering different pay scales for Servers include:
- Smithfield: $32.78 per hour
- Newport: $26.16 per hour
Servers commuting to Smithfield may enjoy substantially higher wages relative to Providence, while Newport also offers competitive pay.
What Influences a Server’s Salary in Providence?
Several key factors influence the salary of a Server in Providence:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Servers who provide excellent customer service and handle complex orders tend to earn higher wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants generally pay more than casual or fast-food settings and may offer higher tips.
- Shift Timing: Working during busy or weekend shifts can increase earnings due to higher tips and possible shift differentials.
- Location within Providence: Servers working in upscale neighborhoods or tourist areas may benefit from higher tips and wages.
- Certifications and Training: Possessing certifications related to alcohol service or food safety can improve employability and salary potential.
How To Become a Server in Providence
Starting a career as a Server in Providence may involve several steps to improve your chances and earnings:
- Training Programs: Enroll in hospitality or culinary programs like the Community College of Rhode Island Hospitality Program or the well-known Johnson & Wales University Culinary Arts Program.
- Food Safety Certification: Obtain the ServSafe Food Handler Certification to demonstrate knowledge of food safety standards often required for Servers.
- Alcohol Service Training: Consider acquiring the TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification, especially if working in establishments that serve alcohol.
- Gain Experience: Many Servers start working in casual or fast-food restaurants to build skills and gain work experience.
Top Employers Hiring Servers in Providence
Some prominent employers in Providence that regularly hire Servers include:
- Snookers
- The Capital Grille
- Bayberry Garden
- NAMI Japanese Restaurant
- Gracie's
Establishments That Servers in Providence Work At
Servers in Providence work in a wide range of establishments:
- Casual Restaurants: Often a starting point for many Servers; wages and tips are moderate but steady.
- Fast Casual and Chain Restaurants: Typically offer stable hourly wages but usually lower tips.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Provide the opportunity for higher wages and significant tips, often requiring advanced customer service skills.
- Bars and Nightclubs: Servers here may earn tips from drink service, especially during peak hours.
The nature and prestige of the establishment can greatly influence a Server's total income.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Providence for Servers
If you are interested in career paths similar to serving, here are some related roles to consider:
These include Fine Dining Server, Waiter/Waitress, and Backwaiter positions, which share similar skills and environments.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Servers in Providence
Servers should familiarize themselves with both state and federal regulations affecting their employment and earnings:
- Visit the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training for state labor laws, minimum wage rules, and employment resources.
- Refer to the Internal Revenue Service for federal tax information applicable to income and tips.
- Check the Occupational Safety and Health Administration for workplace safety regulations relevant to food service workers.