Server Salary in Winston-Salem, NC
Servers in Winston-Salem, NC, in 2025, earn approximately $15.56 per hour, which is about $622.40 per week, $2,697.07 per month, and $32,364.80 per year.
The job demand for Servers is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook with increasing opportunities in the food service industry in Winston-Salem, NC.
How Much Does a Server Make in Winston-Salem, NC?
The salary of a Server in Winston-Salem, NC can vary depending on experience and employer, but here is a general breakdown across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $9.06 | $362.40 | $1,567.20 | $18,806.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.56 | $622.40 | $2,697.07 | $32,364.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $26.71 | $1,068.40 | $4,626.53 | $55,476.80 |
Do Servers in Winston-Salem, NC Earn Tips?
Servers typically earn tips as a significant part of their income. In Winston-Salem, they can expect to earn an extra $10 per hour in tips on average, which can substantially increase their total earnings during a shift.
Server Salary in Winston-Salem, NC vs. National Average
Nationally, Servers earn an average of around $17.48 per hour, translating to about $36,358.40 per year.
Compared to the national average, Servers in Winston-Salem, NC earn slightly less hourly at $15.56, which equals a yearly average of $32,364.80. The difference can be influenced by local cost of living and market demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Winston-Salem, NC for Servers
Nearby areas offer varying pay rates for Servers:
- Graylyn: $28.85 per hour
- Red Robin: $19.00 per hour
Servers working at Graylyn can expect a considerably higher pay rate compared to other local employers, which reflects the prestige and type of establishment.
What Influences a Server’s Salary in Winston-Salem, NC?
Several key factors influence a Server’s salary in Winston-Salem, NC:
- Experience and Customer Service Skills: More experienced Servers with strong interpersonal skills earn higher wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Servers working at upscale or fine dining restaurants typically earn more than those at fast casual or casual dining places.
- Shift and Work Hours: Evening and weekend shifts may have higher earning potential due to increased business volume and tip opportunities.
- Certifications and Legal Permits: Holding certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and permits from the North Carolina Alcohol Beverage Control Commission can improve job prospects and salary.
- Local Economy and Cost of Living: Wages are influenced by the economic conditions and living costs in Winston-Salem.
How To Become a Server in Winston-Salem, NC
Here are some steps to start a successful career as a Server in Winston-Salem, NC:
- Gain Relevant Training: Consider programs like the Forsyth Technical Community College Culinary Arts Program or the Wake Forest University Hospitality Management Program to build foundational knowledge.
- Obtain Food Safety and Alcohol Service Certifications: Earning the ServSafe Food Handler Certification is key, along with obtaining the North Carolina Alcohol Beverage Control Commission Permit for legal alcohol service.
- Develop Strong Customer Service Skills: Being personable and efficient is vital for success and better tips.
- Gain Experience: Entry-level opportunities in casual restaurants or cafeterias help you learn the trade and advance.
Top Employers Hiring Servers in Winston-Salem, NC
Some of the top employers actively hiring Servers in Winston-Salem include:
- Graylyn
- Red Robin
- Razzoo's Cajun Cafe
Establishments That Servers in Winston-Salem, NC Work At
Servers typically find employment in a variety of establishments, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often provide steady hours but typically lower wages and tips.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Have a faster pace and can provide more frequent turnover, affecting tips.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Usually offer higher wages and better tipping opportunities due to the clientele and pricing.
- Hotels and Event Venues: Provide varied experiences, sometimes with higher pay depending on the event scale.
The type of establishment can make a significant difference in a Server’s overall earnings due to tip variance and wage structure differences.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Winston-Salem, NC for Servers
If you are interested in exploring roles similar to a Server, consider the following hospitality jobs:
These roles include Bartender, Backwaiter, and Waiter/Waitress, which share some of the customer service and hospitality aspects of being a Server.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Servers in Winston-Salem, NC
Servers should be informed about labor laws and tax obligations relevant to their job:
- Federal labor laws and regulations can be reviewed at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For specific North Carolina labor laws and resources, visit the North Carolina state government website.