Waitress Salary in Dayton, OH
Waitresses in Dayton, OH, in 2025, 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 demand for Waitresses in Dayton is expected to grow at a rate of 5% per year, indicating a stable and increasing need for these professionals in the hospitality sector locally.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Dayton, OH?
The salary of a Waitress in Dayton varies based on experience and skill level. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings across different stages of a waitress’s career.
| 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 | $2,430.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,947.00 | $35,360.00 |
Do Waitresses in Dayton Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses typically earn tips in addition to their base salary. On average, they can make an extra amount close to $10 per hour in tips, which significantly boosts their overall income.
Waitress Salary in Dayton, OH vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn an average of approximately $14.50 per hour, which amounts to around $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Waitresses in Dayton earn slightly less per hour at $13.90. This reflects the regional economic differences and living costs, although the earnings remain competitive within the local market.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Dayton for Waitresses
Waitresses earning potential varies by area near Dayton:
- Downtown Dayton: $15.50 per hour
- Oakwood: $17.60 per hour
Oakwood offers the highest pay rates for Waitresses nearby, likely due to the area's upscale dining options.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Dayton?
Several factors affect the salary that a Waitress can earn in Dayton:
- Experience and Skills: Experienced Waitresses with excellent customer service abilities typically command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working at fine dining or upscale restaurants generally offers better pay and tips compared to casual or fast food settings.
- Location: Waitresses in busier or more affluent areas often earn more due to higher customer volume and bigger tips.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts might include premium pay or increased tipping opportunities.
- Certifications: Food handler or alcohol service certifications can enhance employability and salary prospects.
How To Become a Waitress in Dayton
To embark on a career as a Waitress in Dayton, here are some essential steps:
- Consider enrolling in hospitality or culinary training programs such as the Sinclair Community College Culinary Arts Program or the Miami Valley Career Technology Center Hospitality Services Program to build foundational knowledge and skills.
- Obtain key certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification to understand food safety and hygiene standards.
- If working in establishments serving alcohol, the TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification is beneficial to responsibly manage alcohol service.
- Gain experience through entry-level jobs in restaurants or cafes to develop excellent communication and service skills.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Dayton
Popular employers hiring Waitresses in Dayton include:
- McDonalds
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Waitresses in Dayton Work At
Waitresses in Dayton commonly find roles in a variety of establishments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer steady work hours and a moderate tipping environment.
- Fast Casual Chains: Usually faster-paced, these may offer lower base pay but higher volume of customers.
- Fine Dining Venues: Provide higher wages and tip potential due to upscale clientele and service expectations.
- Bars and Pubs: Often require bartending skills and offer good tipping opportunities, especially during peak hours.
The type of establishment impacts both the earning potential and the daily work experience of a Waitress.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Dayton for Waitress
Here are some related hospitality careers that share skills and roles similar to a Waitress:
The roles above include Server, Fine Dining Server, and Backwaiter, which often involve customer-facing duties and food service tasks akin to those of a Waitress.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitress in Dayton
Waitresses in Dayton should be familiar with relevant labor laws and taxation guidelines to ensure fair employment conditions and compliance.
- Visit the Federal Department of Labor website for comprehensive guidance on labor laws and wage regulations.
- The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services offers valuable resources specific to state employment rules.
- The City of Dayton official site provides local government labor regulations and support services.