Waitress Salary in Cary, NC
Waitresses in Cary, NC, in 2025, earn approximately $17.94 per hour, which translates to about $717.60 per week, $3,109.60 per month, and $37,315.20 per year.
The demand for Waitresses in Cary is increasing steadily with a growth rate of about 5% per year, indicating a positive job outlook for those entering this field in the area.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Cary, NC?
The salary of a Waitress in Cary can vary based on experience and employer, but here’s a general breakdown of earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.17 | $406.80 | $1,760.40 | $21,164.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.94 | $717.60 | $3,109.60 | $37,315.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $31.65 | $1,266.00 | $5,470.00 | $65,832.00 |
Do Waitresses in Cary Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses typically earn tips, which can amount to an additional $10 per hour or more. These tips can significantly boost their overall income depending on the type of restaurant and the volume of customers.
Waitress Salary in Cary vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn an average of about $17.94 per hour or $37,315.20 annually.
In Cary, the average hourly rate and annual salary match the national averages, reflecting a competitive pay scale for Waitresses compared to many other parts of the country.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Cary for Waitresses
Close to Cary, NC, the highest-paying areas for Waitresses include:
- Downtown Cary: $18.50 per hour
- Preston: $19.00 per hour
These nearby neighborhoods offer slightly higher wages, which may be attractive for those seeking better compensation within commuting distance.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Cary?
Several factors commonly influence how much a Waitress can earn in Cary, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Waitresses with strong communication and multitasking skills command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining and upscale restaurants generally offer better pay and higher tips than casual or fast-food venues.
- Shift Timing and Hours: Evening and weekend shifts often come with increased earning potential through tips and shift differentials.
- Local Demand and Economic Conditions: Economic growth in Cary and nearby areas can impact staffing needs and wage levels.
How To Become a Waitress in Cary
To launch a career as a Waitress in Cary, you can follow these steps:
- Acquire Relevant Training: Consider hospitality management programs such as the Durham Technical Community College Hospitality Management Program or culinary skills training such as the Wake Technical Community College Culinary Arts Program to enhance your knowledge and credentials.
- Obtain Certifications: Earning the ServSafe Food Handler Certification equips you with essential food safety knowledge.
- Legal Permits: In North Carolina, Waitresses serving alcoholic beverages must obtain a North Carolina Alcohol Beverage Control Commission Permit.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level positions or internships in local restaurants help develop customer service and multitasking capabilities.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Cary
Cary’s job market features numerous well-known employers actively hiring Waitresses, such as:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
- Tijuana Flats Tex-Mex
- Craft Public House
Establishments That Waitresses in Cary Work At
Waitresses in Cary typically find roles in a range of dining establishments, including:
- Casual Restaurants: Offering a friendly environment with moderate wages and tips.
- Fast Casual Venues: Usually busier with higher customer turnover, which can offer more consistent tips.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These establishments provide the highest pay and tip potential but require excellent service skills.
- Bars and Pubs: Often offer lively environments where tips can be substantial during peak hours.
The type of establishment significantly affects Waitresses’ salaries and tip earnings, with upscale venues generally offering the best compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Cary for Waitresses
People interested in Waitressing might also consider exploring similar roles within hospitality, which offer related skills and potential career growth.
These include Server, Backwaiter, and Fine Dining Server roles, all of which share customer service elements and have varying pay scales.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Cary
Waitresses in Cary should be familiar with the labor laws and tax regulations affecting their employment.
- For federal labor laws and regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- State-specific labor laws and workplace rights for North Carolina are detailed on the North Carolina Department of Labor website.
- Local government info and resources related to employment can be found on the Town of Cary official website.