Server Salary in Tulsa, OK
Servers in Tulsa, OK, in 2025, earn approximately $16.01 per hour, which amounts to about $640.40 per week, $2,775.07 per month, and $33,300.80 per year.
The demand for Servers in Tulsa is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities and career growth in the food service industry within the city.
How Much Does a Server Make in Tulsa, OK?
The salary of a Server in Tulsa varies depending on experience, location, and other factors. 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) | $8.70 | $348.00 | $1,508.00 | $18,096.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.01 | $640.40 | $2,775.07 | $33,300.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $29.45 | $1,178.00 | $5,069.67 | $60,836.00 |
Do Servers in Tulsa Earn Tips?
Yes, Servers in Tulsa typically earn tips in addition to their base salary. They can earn approximately $10 or more per hour in tips, which can significantly boost their overall income, sometimes almost doubling their hourly earnings depending on the establishment and clientele.
Server Salary in Tulsa vs. National Average
Nationally, Servers earn an average of around $17.60 per hour, which translates to approximately $36,608 per year.
Compared to the national average, Servers in Tulsa earn slightly less, at about $16.01 per hour and $33,300.80 annually. This difference may be influenced by the local cost of living and economic factors in Tulsa.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Tulsa for Servers
In the surrounding areas of Tulsa, the pay for Servers can be slightly higher:
- Downtown Tulsa: $17.50 per hour
- South Tulsa: $18.00 per hour
Working in these parts of Tulsa might offer Servers better pay than other areas within the city.
What Influences a Server’s Salary in Tulsa?
A Server’s salary in Tulsa can be influenced by several factors that impact their earning potential:
- Experience and Skills: More experienced Servers with strong communication and customer service skills often earn higher wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining, upscale restaurants, or popular local venues tend to pay more and offer better tipping opportunities compared to fast food or casual dining.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts typically have higher tips and sometimes better hourly rates.
- Location: Working in high-traffic or affluent areas of Tulsa usually means more customers and higher earnings.
- Certifications and Training: Holding certifications like the Oklahoma Alcohol Server Permit or ServSafe Food Handler Certification can enhance job prospects and salary.
How To Become a Server in Tulsa
Becoming a Server in Tulsa generally requires a combination of skills, certifications, and training. Here are some key steps:
- Gain Relevant Training: Consider culinary and service training programs such as the Tulsa Community College Culinary Arts Program or the Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology Culinary Arts Program, which provide essential food service skills.
- Obtain Required Certifications: Most establishments require Servers to have the Oklahoma Alcohol Server Permit to legally serve alcoholic beverages.
- Learn Food Safety Practices: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is nationally recognized and essential for handling food safely while working in food service.
- Develop Customer Service Skills: Effective communication, patience, and attentiveness are critical for success in serving roles.
Top Employers Hiring Servers in Tulsa
Several notable employers actively hire Servers in Tulsa, including:
- Outback Steakhouse
- Ted's Cafe Escondido
- Texas Roadhouse
Establishments That Servers in Tulsa Work At
Servers in Tulsa find work in diverse types of establishments, each impacting salary and tipping potential differently:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Usually steady work with moderate hourly wage and tips.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Often offer a higher base wage as tipping may be less common or lower.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Typically pay higher wages and provide larger tips due to clientele and upscale service expectations.
- Bars and Nightclubs: Servers may earn substantial tips but often work late and in fast-paced environments.
The earning potential in these venues can vary widely based on the venue's popularity, clientele, and tipping culture.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Tulsa for Servers
If you are interested in careers related to Serving, consider these similar hospitality roles that involve customer service and food service skills.
These include Bartender, Backwaiter, and Fine Dining Server positions that share similar environments or skills with the Server role.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Servers in Tulsa
Understanding the labor laws and tax obligations is important for Servers working in Tulsa:
- Visit the Oklahoma official government website for information on state labor laws, minimum wage, overtime rules, and worker rights.
- For federal labor laws and employment guidelines, the U.S. Department of Labor website offers comprehensive resources.