Server Salary in Tallahassee, FL
Servers in Tallahassee, FL, in 2025, earn approximately $21.10 per hour, which translates to about $844.00 per week, $3,657.33 per month, and $43,888.00 per year.
The demand for Servers in Tallahassee is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive job growth outlook for this role in the hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Server Make in Tallahassee, FL?
The salary of a Server in Tallahassee can vary based on experience and skill, but the following breakdown highlights typical earnings at different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.00 | $400.00 | $1,733.33 | $20,800.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $12.60 | $504.00 | $2,180.00 | $26,208.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.17 | $926.80 | $4,005.33 | $48,137.60 |
Do Servers in Tallahassee Earn Tips?
Servers typically earn a significant portion of their income through tips. In Tallahassee, they can expect to make an extra $10 per hour in tips on average, which can substantially increase their overall earnings.
Server Salary in Tallahassee vs. National Average
Nationally, Sellers earn an average of about $17.58 per hour, which equals around $36,566.40 per year.
In comparison, Servers in Tallahassee earn a higher hourly rate of $21.10 and an annual salary of $43,888.00, indicating a favorable wage scale in this city relative to the national norm.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Tallahassee for Servers
In nearby areas, Servers' salaries vary slightly:
- Downtown: $22.50 per hour
- Midtown: $21.00 per hour
Servers working in Downtown Tallahassee tend to earn the highest wages compared to other nearby districts.
What Influences a Server’s Salary in Tallahassee?
Several key factors influence the salary of a Server in Tallahassee:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Servers with excellent customer service skills typically earn higher wages and more tips.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale restaurants, lounges, or fine dining establishments usually offers better pay and higher tips compared to casual or fast-food settings.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts often come with higher tips and sometimes increased hourly pay.
- Location within the City: Servers in high-traffic or tourist-frequented areas may receive more tips.
- Certifications: Food safety and alcohol service certifications can make a Server more valuable to employers, potentially leading to higher pay.
How To Become a Server in Tallahassee
Aspiring Servers in Tallahassee can take several steps to start their careers effectively:
- Education and Training: Programs such as the Tallahassee Community College Culinary Program offer courses in hospitality and restaurant management, providing foundational skills needed for servers. Similarly, the Florida State University Dedman School of Hospitality offers comprehensive hospitality management education relevant to this role.
- Certifications: Obtaining certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensures a solid understanding of food safety practices and is often a requirement. Additionally, Responsible Vendor Training educates servers on responsible alcohol service and is mandatory in many establishments.
- Gain Experience: Starting in entry-level positions such as busser or host can provide valuable exposure before advancing to server roles.
- Develop Customer Service Skills: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are critical to succeeding and earning great tips in this profession.
Top Employers Hiring Servers in Tallahassee
Several well-known establishments actively seek skilled Servers in Tallahassee:
- Harry's Seafood Bar and Grille
- Hangar 38
- Village Inn
- Red Lobster
- Chili's
Establishments That Servers in Tallahassee Work At
Servers in Tallahassee are typically employed in a range of establishments:
- Casual Dining: These restaurants offer moderate pay with steady tips, ideal for those gaining initial experience.
- Fast Casual: Servers here often earn less hourly wage but benefit from a faster-paced environment.
- Fine Dining: These establishments offer higher hourly pay and tips but require more sophisticated service skills.
- Bars and Lounges: Serving in these venues might yield high tips especially during peak hours and events.
The type of establishment significantly impacts a Server's salary, with fine dining venues generally offering the best earning potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Tallahassee for Servers
If you're interested in careers that share skills with Servers, here are a few related roles to consider.
These include Waiter/Waitress, Banquet Server, and Bartender roles, all of which involve hospitality service skills and offer various earning opportunities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Servers in Tallahassee
Servers should be informed about applicable labor laws and tax rules to protect their rights and maintain compliance.
- Federal labor laws and regulations can be reviewed at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Information specific to Florida labor laws and worker resources is available on the State of Florida's official website.