Server Salary in Vancouver, WA
Servers in Vancouver, WA, in 2026, earn approximately $17.09 per hour, which translates to about $683.60 per week, $2,962.27 per month, and $35,547.20 per year.
The demand for Servers in Vancouver is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing job opportunities for this role in the area.
How Much Does a Server Make in Vancouver, WA?
The salary of a Server in Vancouver can vary based on experience and employer, but here's an overview across different levels of experience.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.66 | $666.40 | $2,885.07 | $34,592.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.09 | $683.60 | $2,962.27 | $35,547.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.04 | $761.60 | $3,298.13 | $39,603.20 |
Do Servers in Vancouver Earn Tips?
Servers typically earn tips in addition to their base salary, which can add a significant amount to their overall income. On average, Servers in Vancouver can earn around $10 to $20 extra per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and customer volume.
Server Salary in Vancouver vs. National Average
Nationally, Servers earn an average of around $17.09 per hour, which amounts to about $35,547.20 per year. This matches exactly with the average salary for Servers in Vancouver, WA, indicating that the compensation here aligns well with the broader national market.
This parity suggests that the cost of living and market demand in Vancouver is fairly representative of the US average for Servers.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Vancouver for Servers
Looking at nearby locations, here is the pay rate for Servers:
- Waterfront: $20.32 per hour
Servers working in Waterfront tend to earn higher hourly wages compared to Vancouver, likely due to higher demand and customer spending in that area.
What Influences a Server’s Salary in Vancouver?
The salary of a Server in Vancouver depends on several factors that can significantly influence earning potential.
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Servers who demonstrate excellent customer service and upselling skills can command higher wages and receive better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale restaurants or busy venues usually offers better salaries and tips compared to casual dining or fast food chains.
- Location: Servers in high-traffic or tourist-heavy areas often earn more due to increased customer volume and tipping.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts may come with higher tips or shift differentials.
How To Become a Server in Vancouver
Pursuing a career as a Server in Vancouver involves meeting certain qualifications and gaining essential certifications.
- Culinary and Hospitality Programs: Programs like the Clark College Culinary Arts Program prepare students for various roles in food service, including serving positions.
- Food Safety Certification: Obtaining the Washington State Food Worker Card is mandatory for all food service workers to ensure compliance with safe food handling practices.
- Customer Service Skills: Sharpening communication and interpersonal skills is crucial to succeeding as a Server.
- Practical Experience: Entry-level positions or internships in restaurants provide hands-on experience to build a career.
Top Employers Hiring Servers in Vancouver
Some of the top employers actively hiring Servers in Vancouver include:
- Waterfront Taphouse
- Red Robin
- Black Bear Diner
Establishments That Servers in Vancouver Work At
Servers in Vancouver typically find work across a wide range of establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often provide steady work but usually with moderate wages and tips.
- Fast Casual Eateries: These places might pay less in wages and generally receive lower tips due to quick service nature.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Higher end establishments usually offer better base pay and much higher tipping potential.
- Bars and Taverns: Can include tips from both food and beverage service, sometimes boosting overall earnings.
The type of establishment greatly influences the overall compensation a Server can earn in Vancouver.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Vancouver for Servers
If you're interested in careers similar to that of a Server, there are several related roles in the hospitality industry worth considering.
These roles include Fine Dining Server, Backwaiter, and Waiter/Waitress, all involving customer-facing service duties in the hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Servers in Vancouver
Servers working in Vancouver should be aware of federal and state labor laws to ensure their rights and responsibilities are met.
- Visit the Federal Department of Labor website for comprehensive information on labor laws and regulations.
- For Washington State-specific labor laws and workplace rights, see the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries website.