Waitress Salary in Arvada, CO
Waitresses in Arvada, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $23.79 per hour, which translates to about $951.60 per week, $4,123.60 per month, and $49,483.20 per year.
The demand for Waitresses in Arvada is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities in the local hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Arvada, CO?
The salary of a Waitress in Arvada can vary depending on experience, skills, and workplace, but here is a general overview across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.81 | $592.40 | $2,562.27 | $30,747.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $23.79 | $951.60 | $4,123.60 | $49,483.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $42.89 | $1,715.60 | $7,432.53 | $89,011.20 |
Do Waitresses in Arvada Earn Tips?
Waitresses in Arvada typically earn tips in addition to their base salary, often making an extra $10 or more per hour in tips. This can significantly increase their total earnings depending on the establishment and clientele.
Waitress Salary in Arvada vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn an average of around $17.63 per hour, translating to about $36,670.40 per year.
Compared to the national average, Waitresses in Arvada earn significantly more, around $23.79 per hour and $49,483.20 annually, reflecting the local market conditions and demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Arvada for Waitresses
Nearby areas offer varying salaries for Waitresses:
- Thornton: $28.75 per hour
- Lone Tree: $25.49 per hour
Waitresses seeking higher pay may consider these areas near Arvada as viable options.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Arvada?
Multiple factors impact how much a Waitress can earn in Arvada:
- Experience: More experienced Waitresses tend to command higher wages and receive better tips.
- Skills and Customer Service: Excellent communication and multitasking skills can lead to higher tips and job retention.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and busy venues typically offer better salaries and more generous tipping opportunities.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts may yield more tips, influencing total income.
- Local Economic Conditions: The overall economy and cost of living in Arvada affect wage levels.
How To Become a Waitress in Arvada
Starting a career as a Waitress in Arvada involves several steps to improve your prospects:
- Complete Relevant Training: Programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Red Rocks Community College provide comprehensive food service skills.
- Gain Knowledge in Hospitality: The Hospitality Management Program at Metropolitan State University of Denver offers education in restaurant operations and customer service.
- Obtain Certifications: Earning certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification can enhance employability and ensure compliance with safety standards.
- Build Practical Experience: Working in entry-level food service roles or as a runner can help develop necessary waiter/waitress skills.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Arvada
Some of the prominent employers currently hiring Waitresses in Arvada include:
- The Melting Pot
- Bluegrass Coffee & Bourbon
- The Bourbon Room
Establishments That Waitresses in Arvada Work At
Waitresses find employment in various types of establishments in Arvada, each affecting potential earnings differently:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Typically offer moderate base wages with variable tip income.
- Fast Casual Establishments: Generally provide faster-paced work with steady but often lower tips.
- Upscale and Fine Dining: Often pay higher base wages and benefit from larger tips due to higher prices and clientele expectations.
- Bars and Coffeehouses: May offer additional income through tips, especially during busy hours.
The establishment’s type significantly influences total salary through variable tipping patterns and wage policies.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Arvada for Waitresses
If you're interested in roles related to Waitressing, consider exploring some similar careers in the hospitality sector.
These include Bartender, Backwaiter, and Hostess positions, each sharing some skills and working environments with Waitresses but with different responsibilities and pay ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Arvada
Waitresses should be aware of the labor laws and tax regulations that affect their work and income in Colorado.
- Visit the Official website of the State of Colorado for information on state labor laws, minimum wage, and employment rights.
- Consult the U.S. Department of Labor's official website for federal labor laws and worker protections.