Waitress Salary in Albany, NY
Waitresses in Albany, NY, in 2025, earn approximately $24.12 per hour, which translates to about $964.80 per week, $4,180.80 per month, and $50,169.60 per year.
The demand for Waitresses in Albany is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive job outlook and increasing opportunities in the hospitality sector.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Albany, NY?
The salary of a Waitress in Albany varies depending on experience and employer. Here is an overview of typical earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.00 | $640.00 | $2,773.33 | $33,280.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $24.12 | $964.80 | $4,159.20 | $50,073.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $44.93 | $1,797.20 | $7,776.53 | $93,334.40 |
Do Waitresses in Albany Earn Tips?
Waitresses typically earn tips, which can significantly increase their income. In Albany, a Waitress can earn an additional approximately $10 per hour in tips, enhancing overall earnings beyond the base salary.
Waitress Salary in Albany vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn on average about $17.60 per hour, or roughly $36,608 per year.
Compared to the national average, Waitresses in Albany earn significantly more, with an average hourly rate of $24.12 and an annual salary around $50,169.60. This disparity highlights Albany's relatively strong hospitality wage market.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Albany for Waitresses
Looking at nearby areas, Waitresses can expect the following hourly wages:
- Downtown Albany: $25.00 per hour
- Pine Hills: $24.50 per hour
Waitresses working in Downtown Albany tend to earn a bit higher compared to other nearby neighborhoods, reflecting the area's busy dining and hospitality scene.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Albany?
Several factors influence the salary of a Waitress in Albany:
- Experience and Skills: More experienced Waitresses with strong customer service and multitasking abilities generally command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining and upscale restaurants often pay more than casual or fast-food venues.
- Shift Timing: Working evening, weekend, or holiday shifts can offer higher hourly wages or tips.
- Geographic Location: Salaries vary within Albany and nearby areas, with downtown locations usually offering better pay.
- Tip Income: Effective Waitresses can significantly boost income through tip earnings, which fluctuate by establishment and clientele.
How To Become a Waitress in Albany
Becoming a Waitress in Albany involves several steps to gain the right skills and certifications:
- Complete Relevant Training: Programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Schenectady County Community College provide essential skills for food service roles.
- Study Hospitality Management: The Hospitality Management Program at SUNY Delhi covers customer service and restaurant operations valuable for Waitresses.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensure knowledge of food safety standards.
- Earn Responsible Alcohol Service Credentials: The TIPS (Training for Intervention Procedures) Certification is important for serving alcohol responsibly in many establishments.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Albany
Some of the top employers frequently hiring Waitresses in Albany include:
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Olive Garden
- Texas Roadhouse
- Red Lobster
- Applebee's
Establishments That Waitresses in Albany Work At
Waitresses in Albany commonly find employment in a variety of settings:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Offer steady shifts with moderate hourly wages and tip potential.
- Fast Casual Chains: Typically pay lower base wages but provide consistent work hours.
- Fine Dining Establishments: These often provide higher wages and the highest tipping opportunities.
- Hotels and Banquet Facilities: Can offer a mix of hourly pay and gratuities with varied shifts.
The type of establishment greatly influences overall salary, with fine dining venues generally offering the best income for Waitresses in Albany.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Albany for Waitresses
If you are considering careers related to being a Waitress, the following roles share similar skills and work environments:
These include Server, Fine Dining Server, and Backwaiter, roles that involve customer service and food delivery in hospitality settings.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Albany
Waitresses in Albany should be aware of federal, state, and local labor laws and regulations governing their employment.
- For comprehensive federal labor laws, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- New York State employment laws and worker rights can be found on the New York State Department of Labor website.
- For local regulations and resources, the Official City of Albany website provides information relevant to Albany workers.