Waitress Salary in Boulder, CO
Waitresses in Boulder, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $23.45 per hour, which translates to about $938.00 per week, $4,064.67 per month, and $48,776.00 per year.
The demand for Waitresses in Boulder is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for job opportunities in the hospitality and food service industry in the region.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Boulder, CO?
The salary of a Waitress in Boulder varies by experience and skill level. Here is a breakdown of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.57 | $622.80 | $2,691.20 | $32,361.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $23.45 | $938.00 | $4,064.67 | $48,776.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $36.08 | $1,443.20 | $6,257.33 | $75,046.40 |
Do Waitresses in Boulder Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses in Boulder typically earn tips, which can significantly increase their income. They can make an extra around $10 per hour in tips, depending on the restaurant and clientele, sometimes even more during busy periods.
Waitress Salary in Boulder vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn an average hourly wage of about $17.50, translating to approximately $36,400 per year.
Compared to the national average, Waitresses in Boulder earn significantly more, with an hourly wage of $23.45 and an annual salary of about $48,776. This higher pay reflects Boulder's tourist appeal, cost of living, and restaurant scene.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Boulder for Waitresses
Nearby areas with higher-than-average pay for Waitresses include:
- University Hill: $25 per hour
- West Pearl: $27 per hour
These neighborhoods are known for vibrant dining scenes that can offer Waitresses better earning opportunities.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Boulder?
Several factors influence how much a Waitress can earn in Boulder, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Waitresses who provide excellent service typically earn higher wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, fine dining venues, or busy tourist spots generally pay more than casual or fast-casual establishments.
- Shift and Hours Worked: Evening, weekend, and holiday shifts often offer opportunities for higher tips and sometimes shift differentials.
- Location: Working in high-traffic or affluent neighborhoods like West Pearl or University Hill can lead to increased earnings.
- Customer Service Skills: A Waitress’s ability to create a positive dining experience can impact tips and overall salary.
How To Become a Waitress in Boulder
Becoming a successful Waitress in Boulder involves a combination of training, certification, and gaining experience.
- Complete Culinary or Hospitality Training: Programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts or the Hospitality Management Program at University of Colorado Boulder provide valuable skills.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like ServSafe Food Handler and TIPS (Training for Intervention Procedures) Certification are often required and demonstrate professional knowledge.
- Gain Experience: Start with entry-level roles in busy restaurants to develop strong customer service and multitasking abilities.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Boulder
Some of the top employers in Boulder looking for Waitresses include:
- Frasca Food and Wine
- The Kitchen Boulder
- Oak at Fourteenth
- Blackbelly Market
- Mountain Sun Pub & Brewery
Establishments That Waitresses in Boulder Work At
Waitresses in Boulder typically work at a variety of food service establishments, including:
- Casual Restaurants: These often have a steady customer flow and offer decent base pay plus tips.
- Fast Casual Dining: Fast-paced but with potentially lower tips, though efficiency and volume can offset this.
- Fine Dining: Higher-end establishments usually pay more and provide greater tipping opportunities but require more advanced service skills.
- Bars and Breweries: Places like Mountain Sun Pub & Brewery offer social environments where tips can be substantial.
The type of establishment directly impacts salary potential and overall earnings.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Boulder for Waitresses
If you are interested in career paths related to being a Waitress, here are a few options:
These include Fine Dining Server, Server, and Backwaiter roles, all closely related to the Waitress position with similar skill requirements.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Boulder
Waitresses in Boulder should understand state and federal labor laws and tax regulations that affect their employment.
- Information on Colorado-specific labor laws, wage standards, and worker rights is available on the official Colorado government website.
- For federal labor laws, wage requirements, and guidelines, visit the U.S. Department of Labor's official website.