Waitress Salary in Atlanta, GA
Waitresses in Atlanta, GA, in 2025, earn approximately $11.00 per hour, which translates to about $440.00 per week, $1,906.67 per month, and $22,880.00 per year.
The job market for Waitresses in Atlanta is growing steadily at about 5% per year, which indicates a positive outlook and increasing demand for skilled waitstaff in the city.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Atlanta, GA?
The salary of a Waitress in Atlanta varies based on experience, skills, and the specific establishment. Here is an overview of typical pay scales:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $9.00 | $360.00 | $1,560.00 | $18,720.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $11.00 | $440.00 | $1,906.67 | $22,880.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $12.00 | $480.00 | $2,080.00 | $24,960.00 |
Do Waitresses in Atlanta Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses in Atlanta typically earn additional income through tips. It's common for Waitresses to receive an extra $10 per hour in tips, which can significantly supplement their base pay and overall income.
Waitress Salary in Atlanta vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn around $14.50 per hour, which equates to about $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Waitresses in Atlanta earn less hourly and annually, at $11.00 per hour and $22,880 per year respectively. This difference reflects varying local economic factors and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Atlanta for Waitresses
Some nearby neighborhoods offer higher wages for Waitresses:
- Buckhead: $12.50 per hour
- Midtown: $12.00 per hour
Waitresses in these areas of Atlanta can expect to earn more than the citywide average, benefiting from upscale dining and higher customer volume.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Atlanta?
Several key factors influence a Waitress's salary in Atlanta:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Waitresses tend to earn higher wages and attract better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale or fine dining restaurants often pay higher base salaries and provide better tipping opportunities than casual eateries.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts may offer increased pay due to higher customer traffic.
- Customer Volume and Location: Busy, popular areas generally provide more tipping potential and stable work hours.
- Certifications and Training: Specialized training in customer service or food safety can enhance a Waitress's profile and earning potential.
How To Become a Waitress in Atlanta
Becoming a Waitress in Atlanta involves several important steps:
- Gain Basic Culinary and Service Skills: Programs like the Atlanta Technical College Culinary Arts Program and Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts Atlanta offer valuable culinary education that can help individuals stand out.
- Obtain Required Certifications: Food safety is crucial; certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification and TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification often improve employability and may be required by employers.
- Develop Strong Communication and Customer Service Skills: Excelling in interpersonal skills is key for success in waitressing roles.
- Gain Experience Through Entry-Level Roles: Starting in casual dining or fast food can provide hands-on experience to move into higher-paying waiter/waitress positions.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Atlanta
Some of the prominent restaurants and eateries in Atlanta that frequently hire Waitresses include:
- The Capital Grille
- Ruth's Chris Steak House
- Bone's Restaurant
- Canoe
- Bacchanalia
Establishments That Waitresses in Atlanta Work At
Waitresses in Atlanta typically find employment in a range of dining establishments:
- Casual Dining: Offers steady shifts and moderate pay with tipping opportunities.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: Usually lower base pay but can provide volume-based tips.
- Fine Dining: Higher wages and tips, demanding advanced service skills and knowledge.
- Bars and Nightclubs: Requires TIPS certification often, with significant tip earnings especially during busy hours.
The type and prestige of the establishment directly affect a Waitress's earning potential, with more upscale places generally offering higher salaries and tipping possibilities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Atlanta for Waitresses
If you’re exploring opportunities similar to a Waitress, consider these related roles that share overlapping skills and environments:
These include Waiter/Waitress, Fine Dining Server, and Backwaiter positions, each with distinct responsibilities and salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Atlanta
Waitresses in Atlanta should be informed of relevant labor laws and tax obligations to ensure fairness and compliance:
- Visit the Georgia Department of Labor for state-specific labor laws and employment services.
- For federal tax information and filing guidance, see the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).