Waitress Salary in Durham, NC
Waitresses in Durham, NC, in 2025, earn approximately $15.20 per hour, which translates to about $608.00 per week, $2,634.67 per month, and $31,616.00 per year.
The job demand for Waitresses in Durham is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy and expanding hospitality industry in the region.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Durham, NC?
The salary of a Waitress in Durham can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general look at earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $7.25 | $290.00 | $1,256.67 | $15,080.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.20 | $608.00 | $2,634.67 | $31,616.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $30.85 | $1,234.00 | $5,326.67 | $63,968.00 |
Do Waitresses in Durham Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses in Durham typically earn tips in addition to their base salary. They can make an approximation of an extra $10 per hour in tips, which significantly adds to their overall earnings.
Waitress Salary in Durham vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn an average of around $17.47 per hour, translating to about $36,337.60 per year.
When compared to the national average, Waitresses in Durham earn slightly less, at about $15.20 per hour and $31,616.00 annually.
This slight difference may be due to regional living costs and local economic factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Durham for Waitresses
Nearby areas offer the following salaries for Waitresses:
- Downtown Durham: $17.50 per hour
- Research Triangle Park: $18.00 per hour
Working in Research Triangle Park may offer a higher hourly wage compared to other nearby locations.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Durham?
Several key factors influence the salary of a Waitress in Durham:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Waitresses with excellent customer service skills tend to earn higher wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or fine dining establishments generally offer better pay and tips than fast food or casual dining places.
- Shift and Hours Worked: Working night or weekend shifts can sometimes include shift differentials or higher tips.
- Local Economy and Cost of Living: Areas with a higher cost of living tend to offer higher wages to compensate.
How To Become a Waitress in Durham
Becoming a Waitress in Durham involves several important steps and possible training opportunities:
- Complete Training Programs: Consider enrolling in the Durham Technical Community College Culinary Arts Program or Wake Technical Community College Hospitality Management Program to gain foundational skills in food service and hospitality.
- Obtain Required Certifications: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is a nationally recognized credential that ensures knowledge of food safety practices. Additionally, for serving alcoholic beverages, the North Carolina Alcohol Beverage Control Commission Permit is mandatory.
- Gain Practical Experience: Starting as a Hostess, Busser, or Barista can provide valuable experience before advancing to a Waitress position.
- Develop Strong Customer Service Skills: Key to success in this role is excellent communication and interpersonal skills to provide quality guest experiences.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Durham
Some of the top employers hiring Waitresses in Durham include:
- Ruth's Chris Steak House
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Maggiano's Little Italy
- Chubby's Tacos
- Dashi
Establishments That Waitresses in Durham Work At
Waitresses in Durham commonly find employment in various types of establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer moderate salaries and tips, often with a friendly and relaxed atmosphere.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: Generally lower wages and fewer tips, but opportunities to gain experience quickly.
- Fine Dining: Higher base pay and substantial tips due to higher check averages and demanding service standards.
- Bars and Nightclubs: Tips can be significant but sometimes vary widely based on the clientele and venue.
The type of establishment directly affects the overall earning potential for Waitresses.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Durham for Waitresses
If you are interested in roles related to Waitressing, here are a few similar careers to consider:
These include Bartender, Hostess, and Backwaiter, which involve interactions with customers and service skills similar to those required for Waitresses.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Durham
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is essential for Waitresses working in Durham.
- Refer to the U.S. Department of Labor website for comprehensive federal labor laws and regulations.
- The North Carolina Department of Labor website offers resources specific to state labor laws and worker rights.
- For local policies and services, visit the Official website of the City of Durham.