Waitress Salary in Clarksville, TN
Waitresses in Clarksville, TN, in 2025, earn approximately $15.07 per hour, which translates to about $602.80 per week, $2,612.13 per month, and $31,345.60 per year.
The demand for Waitresses in Clarksville is growing moderately at about 5% per year, indicating positive job growth and increasing opportunities in the hospitality service sector locally.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Clarksville, TN?
The salary of a Waitress in Clarksville varies depending on experience and employer, but the following table summarizes typical pay at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $9.61 | $384.40 | $1,663.07 | $19,972.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.07 | $602.80 | $2,612.13 | $31,345.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.64 | $945.60 | $4,078.40 | $48,931.20 |
Do Waitresses in Clarksville Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses in Clarksville typically earn tips on top of their base salary. On average, they can earn an additional $5 to $10 per hour in tips, which can significantly increase total earnings, depending on the type of establishment and hours worked.
Waitress Salary in Clarksville vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn an average hourly wage of about $17.50, which amounts to approximately $36,400 per year.
Compared to the national average, Waitresses in Clarksville earn slightly less, at about $15.07 per hour and $31,345.60 annually. The difference reflects local economic conditions and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Clarksville for Waitresses
Nearby areas with higher waitress salaries include:
- Downtown: $16.50 per hour
- St. Bethlehem: $17.00 per hour
Waitresses working in St. Bethlehem enjoy some of the highest local pay rates, making it an attractive area for employment.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Clarksville?
Several factors play a role in the salary differences experienced by Waitresses in Clarksville:
- Experience Level: More seasoned Waitresses tend to command higher wages and better tips due to expertise and customer service skills.
- Type of Establishment: Waitresses working in high-end restaurants or busy downtown locations often receive higher base pay and more tips than those in casual dining venues.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts may offer better pay or higher tips due to increased customer volume.
- Skill Set: Additional skills such as knowledge of wine or specialized service techniques can lead to higher earnings.
- Local Demand and Economic Conditions: Economic growth and visitor traffic in Clarksville can influence pay rates.
How To Become a Waitress in Clarksville
Embarking on a career as a Waitress in Clarksville involves a few practical steps and relevant certifications:
- Gain Basic Hospitality Skills: Familiarity with customer service principles is essential.
- Consider Training Programs: Programs such as the Austin Peay State University Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive training in culinary skills and restaurant management.
- Complete Hospitality Education: The Tennessee College of Applied Technology Hospitality Program offers education in hospitality services, including food and beverage management.
- Obtain Required Permits and Certifications: The Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission Server Permit is necessary for serving alcoholic beverages. Additionally, the ServSafe Food Handler Certification is nationally recognized and important for food safety compliance.
- Gain On-the-Job Experience: Many start as hostesses or busser staff before progressing to waitress roles.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Clarksville
Several notable establishments in Clarksville that frequently hire Waitresses include:
- The Gourmet Fork
- Miller’s Landing Seafood Grill
- Fire & Slice Pizzeria
Establishments That Waitresses in Clarksville Work At
Waitresses in Clarksville typically find employment across a variety of establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These venues generally offer moderate base wages but can provide steady employment.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Often characterized by a faster pace and lower price points, wages can vary but are usually supplemented by tips.
- Fine Dining Venues: Tend to pay higher wages and have more generous tipping cultures, significantly increasing overall earnings.
- Hotels and Event Catering: These environments may offer varied shifts and sometimes higher pay depending on the clientele.
The type of establishment greatly affects both the base salary and tipping potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Clarksville for Waitresses
If you are interested in related careers within the hospitality industry, consider these similar roles:
These include Server, Banquet Server, and Backwaiter roles, which share many responsibilities and skills with a Waitress.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Clarksville
Waitresses in Clarksville should be familiar with relevant labor laws and tax requirements to ensure compliance and fair treatment.
- For Tennessee state labor regulations, visit the official Tennessee government website.
- Federal labor law resources are available at the U.S. Department of Labor website.