Waitress Salary in Cleveland, OH
Waitresses in Cleveland, OH, in 2026, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The job market for Waitresses in Cleveland is growing at a rate of 5% per year, indicating a positive demand and expansion for service roles in the hospitality sector locally.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Cleveland, OH?
The salary of a Waitress in Cleveland varies largely by experience and establishment type. Here’s an estimated breakdown across experience levels:
| 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) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,436.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Waitresses in Cleveland Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses in Cleveland typically earn tips that can substantially supplement their income. On average, a Waitress might earn an extra $10 per hour in tips, which can sometimes even surpass their base hourly wage depending on the setting.
Waitress Salary in Cleveland vs. National Average
Nationally, the average hourly wage for a Waitress is approximately $14.50, translating to around $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national figures, Waitresses in Cleveland earn slightly below average with an hourly rate of $13.90 and yearly earnings near $28,912. This difference may be influenced by local cost of living and restaurant market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Cleveland for Waitresses
Within the Cleveland area, some neighborhoods pay more competitively for Waitresses:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- University Circle: $17.60 per hour
Waitresses working in these neighborhoods often have access to higher tips and wages due to upscale dining and higher customer traffic.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Cleveland?
Several factors impact how much a Waitress can earn in Cleveland:
- Experience and Seniority: More experienced Waitresses generally command higher wages and better tip incomes.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining and upscale restaurants often pay more than casual or fast-food venues.
- Skill Level: Waitresses with strong customer service and multitasking skills tend to perform better and receive larger tips.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts may come with increased pay or higher tips.
- Location: Working in high-traffic or affluent areas like University Circle can significantly increase earnings.
How To Become a Waitress in Cleveland
Starting a career as a Waitress in Cleveland involves a few key steps:
- Gain Food Safety Certifications: Obtain certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification to demonstrate knowledge of safety practices.
- Complete Responsible Alcohol Service Training: The Ohio Alcohol Server Training is required for servers handling alcoholic beverages.
- Develop Customer Service Skills: Experience in hospitality or prior waitressing jobs improves employability.
- Consider Culinary and Hospitality Programs: Enrolling in programs like the Cuyahoga Community College Culinary Arts Program or the International Culinary Arts and Sciences Institute can enhance knowledge and career prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Cleveland
Several restaurant chains and local establishments frequently hire Waitresses in Cleveland, including:
- McDonalds
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Waitresses in Cleveland Work At
Waitresses find employment across a range of dining establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These often provide steady hours but may pay modest base wages.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: These can offer flexible schedules, but base pay is often lower and tips less predictable.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Tend to pay higher base wages and tips, reflecting service quality and clientele.
- Bars and Nightclubs: Waitresses in these venues can earn substantial tips, particularly during busy hours or events.
The type of establishment can have a significant impact on total compensation, as tip income varies widely.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Cleveland for Waitresses
Those interested in similar roles to Waitressing might consider these related hospitality positions:
These include Server, Banquet Server, and Backwaiter positions, offering varied work settings and pay scales within the hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Cleveland
Understanding labor laws and tax requirements is important for Waitresses working in Cleveland. Useful resources include:
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for national guidelines.
- The State of Ohio's Department of Job and Family Services provides state-specific employment resources and labor info.
- Check the City of Cleveland's official website for local employment guidelines and support.