Waitress Salary in Davenport, IA
Waitresses in Davenport, IA, in 2026, earn approximately $14.53 per hour, which translates to about $581.20 per week, $2,518.53 per month, and $30,222.40 per year.
The demand for Waitresses in Davenport is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for employment opportunities in this service role.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Davenport, IA?
The salary of a Waitress in Davenport varies by experience and skill level. Below is a breakdown of earnings across different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $8.98 | $359.20 | $1,558.13 | $18,678.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.53 | $581.20 | $2,518.53 | $30,222.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.50 | $940.00 | $4,066.67 | $48,880.00 |
Do Waitresses in Davenport Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses in Davenport typically earn tips, which can significantly supplement their base pay. On average, they may earn an extra $10 per hour in tips, greatly enhancing their overall income and reflecting the importance of customer service skills in this role.
Waitress Salary in Davenport vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn an average of about $16.23 per hour, making approximately $33,758.40 per year.
Compared to the national average, Waitresses in Davenport earn a bit less hourly at $14.53 per hour and yearly at $30,222.40. This difference can be influenced by local cost of living and economic conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Davenport for Waitresses
Looking at surrounding areas, some neighborhoods pay higher wages for Waitresses:
- Downtown Davenport: $15.50 per hour
- East Village: $17.60 per hour
Waitresses working in East Village might find notably better pay compared to other parts of Davenport due to the area's demand and clientele.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Davenport?
Several factors can affect the salary of a Waitress in Davenport:
- Experience: More experienced Waitresses often receive higher wages and tips due to proficiency and customer rapport.
- Skills: Strong communication and multitasking skills lead to better service and potentially more tips.
- Type of Establishment: High-end or busy restaurants typically offer better wages and tips compared to casual or fast-food venues.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts often pay more due to higher customer volume and tips.
- Local Economy: Economic conditions in Davenport can influence wages and employment availability.
How To Become a Waitress in Davenport
To launch a career as a Waitress in Davenport, consider the following steps:
- Complete formal training or coursework such as the Scott Community College Culinary Arts Program for foundational food service knowledge.
- Gain skills in hospitality through programs like the Eastern Iowa Community Colleges Hospitality Management Program.
- Obtain important certifications including the ServSafe Food Handler Certification to meet food safety standards.
- Acquire the Iowa Alcoholic Beverages Division Server Permit if serving alcohol, ensuring legal compliance.
- Gain practical experience by starting in entry-level service roles.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Davenport
Several well-known establishments actively hire Waitresses in Davenport, including:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Waitresses in Davenport Work At
Waitresses commonly work in a variety of establishments, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Offer moderate wages and opportunities for tips depending on customer traffic.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Provide quicker service environments, sometimes with lower wages but steady tips.
- Fine Dining Venues: These generally pay higher wages and offer more tipping opportunities due to higher prices and clientele expectations.
- Cafés and Coffee Shops: May offer hourly wages with less emphasis on tips but valuable service experience.
The type of establishment plays a key role in salary and tip earnings, with fine dining generally providing the highest compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Davenport for Waitresses
If you are interested in careers similar to Waitress, consider related roles in the hospitality industry:
These include Server, Banquet Server, and Backwaiter jobs, all offering comparable service roles in the hospitality sector.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Davenport
Waitresses in Davenport should be aware of important labor laws and tax regulations that impact their work and income.
- You can find detailed labor regulations and employment standards on the Official website of the State of Iowa.
- For information on federal labor laws, visit the U.S. Department of Labor's official website.