Waitress Salary in Boston, MA
Waitresses in Boston, MA, in 2025, earn approximately $12.07 per hour, which translates to about $482.80 per week, $2,092.13 per month, and $25,105.60 per year.
The demand for Waitresses in Boston is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy job market with positive employment opportunities for individuals interested in this role.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Boston, MA?
The salary of a Waitress in Boston varies depending on experience and employer, with earnings generally increasing as skills and experience develop.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $12.07 | $482.80 | $2,092.13 | $25,105.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $14.50 | $580.00 | $2,508.33 | $30,160.00 |
Do Waitresses in Boston Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses often earn tips that can significantly boost their income. On average, a Waitress in Boston can earn an extra $10 per hour in tips, which can nearly double overall hourly earnings, especially in busy or upscale establishments.
Waitress Salary in Boston vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn an average hourly wage of around $11.42 per hour, which translates to approximately $23,753.60 annually.
Compared to the national average, Waitresses in Boston earn a higher wage of $12.07 per hour and about $25,105.60 per year, reflecting the city's higher cost of living and vibrant food service market.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Boston for Waitresses
Nearby areas offer Pay variations for Waitresses:
- Back Bay: $13.50 per hour
- Beacon Hill: $14.00 per hour
Waitresses in Beacon Hill tend to earn the highest wages among these areas, likely due to the upscale nature of the neighborhood and its clientele.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Boston?
Several factors can influence how much a Waitress earns in Boston:
- Experience and Skill Level: Experienced Waitresses with strong customer service skills tend to earn more.
- Type of Establishment: Working in fine dining or upscale restaurants often results in higher wages and more tips than casual dining.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts might offer higher pay prospects due to increased customer volume.
- Location: Establishments in wealthier neighborhoods or tourist areas usually provide better compensation.
- Certifications and Training: Having formal hospitality training can be a plus.
How To Become a Waitress in Boston
If you're considering a career as a Waitress in Boston, here are some steps to help you get started:
- Gain relevant training: Programs like those at Boston University School of Hospitality Administration and Cambridge School of Culinary Arts provide foundational knowledge and front-of-house service skills.
- Obtain Certifications: Certifications such as TIPS Certification for alcohol service and ServSafe Certification for food safety are often required and valued.
- Develop strong communication and interpersonal skills: These are crucial for providing excellent customer service and maximizing tips.
- Start with entry-level positions: Many start as hosts or bussers and advance to Waitress roles through experience.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Boston
Some of the leading establishments currently hiring Waitresses in Boston include:
- Legal Sea Foods
- The Capital Grille
- Union Oyster House
Establishments That Waitresses in Boston Work At
Waitresses in Boston commonly work in a variety of settings:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Typically offer stable hours with moderate wages and tips.
- Fast Casual Establishments: These may pay lower wages but often include higher turnover and more flexible schedules.
- Fine Dining: Generally, the highest paying category in terms of hourly wages and tips.
- Bars and Nightclubs: May provide higher tips, especially in popular areas.
The choice of establishment significantly impacts total earnings, with fine dining and upscale venues generally offering the best pay.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Boston for Waitresses
For those interested in roles similar to Waitress, here are some related hospitality careers worth exploring:
These include Bartender, Fine Dining Server, and Hostess, which share customer-facing responsibilities and can offer different earning potentials.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Boston
Waitresses need to be aware of labor laws and tax obligations specific to Massachusetts and the United States.
- Visit the Massachusetts government website for comprehensive details on state labor laws, including minimum wage and work conditions.
- For Federal labor regulations, the U.S. Department of Labor website offers resources regarding workplace rights and employment standards.