Waitress Salary in Boise, ID
Waitresses in Boise, ID, in 2025, earn approximately $19.55 per hour, which translates to about $782.00 per week, $3,388.67 per month, and $40,664.00 per year.
The job demand for Waitresses in Boise is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook and increased opportunities in the food service industry in the area.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Boise, ID?
The salary of a Waitress in Boise varies based on experience level, skills, and employer type. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings at different stages.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.28 | $491.20 | $2,128.53 | $25,478.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.55 | $782.00 | $3,388.67 | $40,664.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $31.10 | $1,244.00 | $5,399.33 | $64,688.00 |
Do Waitresses in Boise Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses in Boise typically earn tips as a significant part of their income. They can make an extra $10 per hour or more in tips, depending on the establishment and customer volume, which greatly enhances their overall earnings.
Waitress Salary in Boise vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn an average of around $17.63 per hour, which translates to approximately $36,670.40 per year.
Compared to the national average, Waitresses in Boise earn slightly more at about $19.55 per hour and $40,664.00 annually. This increase can be attributed to local demand, cost of living, and competitive food service markets.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Boise for Waitresses
Nearby areas offer differing pay scales for Waitress positions:
- Eagle: $26.42 per hour
- Nampa: $20.42 per hour
Waitresses might find better pay opportunities in Eagle compared to Nampa, with Boise's wages positioned in between, making the nearby regions attractive options for employment.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Boise?
Several key factors determine how much a Waitress can earn in Boise:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Waitresses who provide excellent customer service tend to earn higher wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants usually pay more than casual or fast food establishments, both in hourly wages and customer tips.
- Hours Worked: Shift times, weekends, and holidays often come with higher pay rates or better tips.
- Location: Waitresses working in busier areas with high foot traffic can earn more in tips compared to quieter venues.
- Certifications and Training: Holding certifications such as TIPS or food safety can improve job prospects and earning potential.
How To Become a Waitress in Boise
Starting a career as a Waitress in Boise can be achievable with some preparation and training:
- Complete Relevant Education or Training: Programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at the College of Western Idaho or the Hospitality Management Program at Boise State University provide valuable knowledge and skills applicable to waitressing.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The Idaho Food Safety Certification is generally required to ensure awareness of safe food handling practices.
- Get TIPS Certification: This certification helps those involved in alcohol service to responsibly manage consumption and prevent liability issues.
- Gain Experience: Entry-level positions in local restaurants can build hands-on skills and confidence in serving customers efficiently.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Boise
Some of the leading employers in Boise looking to hire Waitresses include:
- Chili's
- Olive Garden
- Red Lobster
Establishments That Waitresses in Boise Work At
Waitresses in Boise typically find employment across various types of restaurants and venues such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer steady shifts and generally consistent tips but may have lower base pay.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Higher-end restaurants tend to pay better wages and provide higher tipping opportunities.
- Fast Casual and Quick-Service Locations: Generally lower pay and fewer tipping opportunities, but often have more entry-level openings.
- Banquets and Catering: Waitresses may find event-based work which can pay well per event.
The establishment type impacts not only base salary but also how much a Waitress can earn in tips and total compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Boise for Waitresses
If you are interested in roles similar to Waitress, there are several related hospitality positions that you might consider to broaden your career path.
This includes positions like Backwaiter, Fine Dining Server, and Server, roles which share similar skills and environments with Waitresses.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Boise
Waitresses working in Boise should be aware of the relevant labor laws and tax obligations to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- For comprehensive information on federal labor laws and regulations, you can visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations.
- Specific state labor laws and resources for Idaho can be found at the State of Idaho Department of Labor website.