Server Salary in St. Louis, MO
Servers in St. Louis, MO, in 2025, earn approximately $20.10 per hour, which translates to about $804.00 per week, $3,484.00 per month, and $41,808.00 per year.
The demand for Servers in St. Louis is growing steadily at about 5% per year, showing positive job growth and opportunities for those entering or progressing in this field.
How Much Does a Server Make in St. Louis, MO?
The salary of a Server in St. Louis can vary widely depending on experience and place of work. Below is a breakdown of earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.75 | $550.00 | $2,383.33 | $28,600.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.10 | $804.00 | $3,484.00 | $41,808.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $32.96 | $1,318.40 | $5,697.07 | $68,576.00 |
Do Servers in St. Louis Earn Tips?
Yes, Servers in St. Louis typically earn tips which can significantly supplement their base pay. On average, a Server can earn an extra $10 per hour in tips, sometimes more depending on the establishment and shift.
Server Salary in St. Louis vs. National Average
The national average hourly wage for Servers is about $17.30, resulting in a yearly salary of approximately $35,984. Compared to this, Servers in St. Louis earn $20.10 per hour or $41,808 annually, which is noticeably higher than the national average.
This reflects the positive economic conditions and demand for hospitality staff in the St. Louis area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near St. Louis for Servers
Within the St. Louis metro area, Servers can expect different pay rates depending on the neighborhood:
- Downtown: $21.50 per hour
- Central West End: $22.00 per hour
These areas offer higher wages likely due to more upscale dining options and higher customer volume.
What Influences a Server’s Salary in St. Louis?
A Server’s salary in St. Louis is influenced by several factors:
- Experience and Customer Service Skills: More experienced Servers with strong interpersonal skills can command higher wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants and busy downtown locations usually pay higher base wages and offer more lucrative tipping opportunities.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts often come with higher demand and possible tip increases.
- Certifications: Completing food safety or alcohol service certifications can improve job prospects and pay.
- Economic Conditions: Local cost of living and market demand affect wage levels for Servers in the area.
How To Become a Server in St. Louis
To become a Server in St. Louis, candidates can follow several key steps:
- Gain Basic Education and Hospitality Skills: While formal education isn't always required, completing programs such as the St. Louis Community College Culinary Arts Program or attending L'École Culinaire can provide a useful foundation in food service.
- Obtain Required Certifications: Certifications like ServSafe Food Handler Certification and TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification are often required or highly recommended by employers to ensure knowledge of food safety and responsible alcohol service.
- Develop Excellent Communication Skills: Servers need strong customer service capabilities to succeed and earn good tips.
- Gain Experience through Entry-Level Positions: Many start as bussers or hosts and then transition to Server roles as they gain restaurant experience.
Top Employers Hiring Servers in St. Louis
Some of the top establishments currently hiring Servers in St. Louis include:
- Puttshack
- BASSO
- Condado Tacos
- The Pasta House Co.
- Saint Louis Club
Establishments That Servers in St. Louis Work At
Servers find employment in various types of establishments throughout St. Louis, including:
- Casual Dining: These venues may pay moderate base salaries but rely heavily on tips.
- Fast Casual: Typically have lower tipping opportunities but offer steady work.
- Fine Dining: Often provide higher wages and larger tips due to affluent clientele and more sophisticated service requirements.
- Bars and Nightclubs: May offer additional income through drink service tips and shifts during peak hours.
The nature and prestige of the establishment markedly impact the total compensation Servers receive.
Related Hospitality Jobs in St. Louis for Servers
If you're exploring careers related to Serving, consider these closely related roles that share similar skills and work environments:
These include Backwaiter, Fine Dining Server, and Waiter/Waitress positions, allowing for growth and specialization within the hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Servers in St. Louis
Servers in St. Louis need to be aware of federal and Missouri state labor laws and tax requirements that affect their employment.
- For comprehensive federal guidelines, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For Missouri-specific labor laws and employment resources, check the Missouri Department of Labor website.