Waitress Salary in Allentown, PA
Waitresses in Allentown, PA, in 2026, earn approximately $15.62 per hour, which translates to about $624.80 per week, $2,707.47 per month, and $32,489.60 per year.
The demand for Waitresses in Allentown is growing at a stable rate of 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increased opportunities in the food service industry within the region.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Allentown, PA?
The salary of a Waitress in Allentown varies based on experience and employer type. Below is a detailed breakdown of earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $9.34 | $373.60 | $1,614.93 | $19,427.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.62 | $624.80 | $2,707.47 | $32,489.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $26.11 | $1,044.40 | $4,513.87 | $54,308.80 |
Do Waitresses in Allentown Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses in Allentown typically earn tips. On average, a Waitress can expect to make an extra $10 per hour in tips, significantly enhancing their overall earnings depending on the establishment and customer volume.
Waitress Salary in Allentown vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn an average of about $17.55 per hour, which equates to roughly $36,504 per year.
Compared to the national average, Waitresses in Allentown earn slightly less hourly at $15.62 per hour and yearly at $32,489.60. This variance can be influenced by local cost of living, employer size, and industry conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Allentown for Waitresses
Looking at nearby areas to Allentown, wages for Waitresses differ slightly:
- Downtown Allentown: $16.50 per hour
- West End Theatre District: $17.00 per hour
Waitresses working in the West End Theatre District tend to earn the highest hourly wages, likely due to higher demand and more upscale dining venues.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Allentown?
Experience, establishment type, location, and skill level all play significant roles in determining a Waitress’s salary in Allentown.
More experienced Waitresses usually command higher wages as they provide better customer service and efficiency.
Working in upscale restaurants or busy districts like the West End Theatre District can also increase earning potential through better base pay and higher tips.
Additional skills such as multitasking, strong communication, and knowledge of menu items enhance a Waitress’s value to employers and affect salary.
How To Become a Waitress in Allentown
Starting a career as a Waitress in Allentown involves:
- Completing relevant hospitality training programs, such as the Lehigh Carbon Community College Culinary Arts Program, which provides comprehensive skills useful in food service.
- Enrolling in the Northampton Community College Hospitality Management Program to gain education in restaurant management and customer service.
- Obtaining certifications like the RAMP (Responsible Alcohol Management Program) Certification, mandated in Pennsylvania for servers handling alcohol.
- Securing the ServSafe Food Handler Certification to demonstrate knowledge of essential food safety practices, which many employers prefer.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Allentown
Some of the top local establishments employing Waitresses include:
- Lily Sushi Grill
- Perkins Restaurants & Bakery
- Carrabba's Italian Grill
Establishments That Waitresses in Allentown Work At
Waitresses in Allentown commonly work at:
- Casual Restaurants: These typically provide steady work but may have lower base pay with tips compensating earnings.
- Fast Casual Venues: These generally pay a modest hourly rate but offer high customer turnover for potential tips.
- Fine Dining Establishments: These usually pay higher wages and offer significantly better tip opportunities.
- Buffets and Diners: Salaries here may be lower, balanced by moderate tip income.
The type and prestige of the establishment greatly influence salary levels and tip earnings for Waitresses.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Allentown for Waitresses
If you’re considering related roles within hospitality, here are some similar careers:
This list includes Server, Fine Dining Server, and Backwaiter, which share many responsibilities and career pathways with Waitresses.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Allentown
Waitresses in Allentown should be aware of both state and federal labor laws and taxation requirements:
- Visit the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry website for information on labor laws including wage regulations, overtime, and workers' rights.
- The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) site offers essential guidance on federal tax responsibilities.