Waitress Salary in Bellevue, WA
Waitresses in Bellevue, WA, in 2025, earn approximately $12.00 per hour, which translates to about $480.00 per week, $2,080.00 per month, and $24,960.00 per year.
The job market for Waitresses in Bellevue is showing positive growth of around 5% annually, indicating steady demand and opportunities in the hospitality sector throughout the year.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Bellevue, WA?
The earnings of a Waitress in Bellevue can vary based on experience and employer. Below is a breakdown of typical pay scales by experience level:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.00 | $400.00 | $1,733.33 | $20,800.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $12.00 | $480.00 | $2,080.00 | $24,960.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $14.00 | $560.00 | $2,426.67 | $29,120.00 |
Do Waitresses in Bellevue Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses in Bellevue often earn additional income through tips. It's common for waitresses to make about $10 per hour in tips, which can significantly boost overall earnings.
Waitress Salary in Bellevue vs. National Average
Across the United States, the average hourly wage for Waitresses is around $14.50 per hour, amounting to about $30,160 per year.
Comparatively, Waitresses in Bellevue earn slightly less hourly at $12.00, resulting in an annual salary of $24,960. This difference may reflect local cost of living, employer types, or market demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Bellevue for Waitresses
Specific neighborhoods pay slightly different wages:
- Downtown Bellevue: $13.50 per hour
- Bellevue Square: $14.00 per hour
Waitresses working closer to Bellevue Square tend to earn a bit more, likely due to the area's bustling retail and dining environment.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Bellevue?
Several factors impact how much a Waitress can earn in Bellevue:
- Experience Level: More experienced Waitresses tend to command higher wages and better tips.
- Skills and Customer Service: Strong interpersonal and multitasking abilities can increase earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or hotels often pay more than casual diners or fast-food places.
- Shift and Hours: Evening and weekend shifts may offer premium pay or higher tips.
- Local Demand: Areas with numerous tourists or higher traffic can mean more opportunities for tips and better wages.
How To Become a Waitress in Bellevue
Starting as a Waitress in Bellevue involves several key steps:
- Hospitality Education: Enroll in programs such as the Bellevue College Hospitality Management Program or the Lake Washington Institute of Technology Culinary Arts Program for foundational knowledge on restaurant operations and customer service.
- Obtain Necessary Certifications: Acquire the Washington State Food Worker Card, mandatory for food service roles, and if serving alcohol, the Alcohol Server Permit (MAST) is required.
- Develop Strong Customer Service Skills: This is crucial for succeeding in a Waitress role and maximizing tips.
- Gain Practical Experience: Start working in entry-level food service positions to build confidence and familiarity with industry standards.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Bellevue
Several well-known restaurants actively seek skilled Waitresses in the Bellevue area:
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Maggiano's Little Italy
- Daniel's Broiler
Establishments That Waitresses in Bellevue Work At
Waitresses typically work in various types of dining establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Offer moderate wages and tips, good for entry-level Waitresses.
- Fine Dining Venues: Often pay higher wages and enable greater tip earnings for experienced staff.
- Fast Casual and Cafes: Usually have lower base wages but steady work hours.
- Hotels and Resorts: Can offer a more stable income and sometimes benefits in addition to tips.
The type of establishment significantly influences a Waitress’s earnings, with fine dining typically providing the best opportunity for higher salaries and tips combined.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Bellevue for Waitresses
If you are exploring careers related to Waitressing, here are some similar roles in hospitality to consider:
These include Waiter/Waitress, Fine Dining Server, and Backwaiter, roles that share many responsibilities and skills with a Waitress position.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Bellevue
Waitresses should be informed about labor laws and tax requirements specific to Washington State.
- Information about professional licenses and regulations is available on the Washington State Department of Licensing website.
- Labor laws, workplace safety, and workers' rights resources can be found at the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries website.