Waitress Salary in Des Moines, IA
Waitresses in Des Moines, IA, in 2026, earn approximately $19.46 per hour, which translates to about $778.40 per week, $3,373.07 per month, and $40,476.80 per year.
The demand for Waitresses in Des Moines is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities and increased employment prospects in the hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Des Moines, IA?
The salary of a Waitress in Des Moines can vary depending on experience and establishment, but here is a general overview of earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.99 | $479.60 | $2,077.33 | $24,928.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.46 | $778.40 | $3,373.07 | $40,476.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $31.57 | $1,262.80 | $5,453.07 | $65,553.60 |
Do Waitresses in Des Moines Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses frequently earn tips in addition to their hourly wages. On average, a Waitress in Des Moines can make an extra $10 or more per hour in tips, significantly supplementing their overall income.
Waitress Salary in Des Moines vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn an average around $17.21 per hour, which translates to roughly $35,796.80 per year.
Compared to the national average, Waitresses in Des Moines make a higher hourly rate of $19.46 and annual salary near $40,476.80. This difference may reflect local demand and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Des Moines for Waitresses
Nearby neighborhoods show variation in Waitress salaries:
- Downtown: $25 per hour
- East Village: $23 per hour
Waitresses working in Downtown areas typically receive higher pay due to the bustling commercial activity and tourist presence.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Des Moines?
Several factors impact the salary of a Waitress in Des Moines:
- Experience Level: Waitresses with more years of service or specialized skills often command higher wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants and busy venues typically pay more than casual dining or fast food outlets.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts often yield higher earnings owing to increased customer volume and potential tip accumulation.
- Customer Service Skills: Exceptional interpersonal skills can lead to better tips and repeat customers.
How To Become a Waitress in Des Moines
Starting a career as a Waitress in Des Moines involves several important steps:
- Gain Basic Food Safety Knowledge: Certifications like ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensure compliance with health standards and are often required.
- Acquire Alcohol Service Permits: The Iowa Alcoholic Beverages Division Server Permit is mandatory for servers in establishments serving alcohol, ensuring responsible service.
- Enroll in Local Culinary or Hospitality Programs: Programs such as the Des Moines Area Community College Culinary Arts Program and the Iowa Culinary Institute at DMACC offer comprehensive training and a pathway into various food service roles.
- Develop Strong Communication and Customer Service Skills: These are essential for building rapport with patrons and earning tips.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Des Moines
Some of the leading employers seeking qualified Waitresses in Des Moines include:
- Flix Brewhouse
- The Royal Mile
- Eatery A
- Perkins Restaurant and Bakery
- Village Inn Restaurants
Establishments That Waitresses in Des Moines Work At
Waitresses typically find work at a range of food service establishments, each influencing their earning potential:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often offer steady hours with moderate wages and tips.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Usually pay higher wages and provide opportunities for larger tips through attentive service.
- Fast Casual and Chain Restaurants: Provide volume-based work typically with lower hourly rates and less tipping opportunity.
- Bars and Breweries: Tend to offer opportunities for tips, especially during busy evenings and weekends.
The specific type and prestige of the establishment strongly affects overall compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Des Moines for Waitresses
If you're considering career paths related to being a Waitress, here are a few similar roles worth exploring:
These include Server, Fine Dining Server, and Backwaiter, which share many skills and job environments with Waitressing.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Des Moines
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is vital for Waitresses to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- State resources and regulations can be found at the Official website of the State of Iowa.
- Federal labor laws and worker rights are available on the U.S. Department of Labor's official site.
- Local government information and employment services are accessible through the City of Des Moines official website.