Waitress Salary in Evanston, IL
Waitresses in Evanston, IL, in 2025, earn approximately $15.82 per hour, which translates to about $632.80 per week, $2,742.13 per month, and $32,905.60 per year.
The demand for Waitresses in Evanston is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the food service industry locally for this role.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Evanston, IL?
The salary of a Waitress in Evanston varies depending on their experience level and the establishment they work in. Here is a breakdown of typical earnings across different levels of experience.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.95 | $558.00 | $2,410.00 | $28,920.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.82 | $632.80 | $2,742.13 | $32,905.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.42 | $736.80 | $3,189.33 | $38,273.60 |
Do Waitresses in Evanston Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses in Evanston typically earn tips, which can significantly supplement their base wages. On average, a Waitress can earn an extra $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and customer volume. This tip income often makes the position financially rewarding beyond just the hourly pay.
Waitress Salary in Evanston vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn an average of around $16.00 per hour, which translates to about $33,280 per year.
When compared to the national average, Waitresses in Evanston earn slightly less hourly at $15.82 per hour, and their annual salary of $32,905.60 is just below the national figure. This difference may be influenced by local economic factors and the cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Evanston for Waitresses
Nearby areas where Waitresses can earn higher wages include:
- Downtown Evanston: $20.65 per hour
- Northwestern University Area: $18.86 per hour
Waitresses working in Downtown Evanston enjoy notably higher pay rates, likely due to the concentration of upscale dining and higher customer demand.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Evanston?
Several key factors affect the salary of a Waitress in Evanston:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Waitresses who can provide exceptional customer service tend to earn higher wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Working in fine dining or busy urban areas usually results in higher pay and more generous tips compared to casual or fast-food environments.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts often come with the potential for increased tips due to higher customer volume.
- Certifications: Holding certifications like the Illinois Food Handler Certification or ServSafe Alcohol Certification can make candidates more desirable and lead to better wages.
- Local Economic Conditions: The cost of living and local demand for restaurant staff influence pay scales.
How To Become a Waitress in Evanston
Starting a career as a Waitress in Evanston involves several steps that can increase job prospects and potential earnings.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Illinois Food Handler Certification is mandatory for food service employees. Additionally, the ServSafe Alcohol Certification is required for those serving alcohol, ensuring responsible service.
- Gain Experience: Many Waitresses start by working in casual or family-style restaurants to build customer service skills and gain familiarity with order handling.
- Consider Culinary or Hospitality Training: Although not always required, programs like the Oakton Community College Culinary Arts Program or the Kendall College at National Louis University culinary arts degrees can provide valuable background and competitive advantage.
- Develop Soft Skills: Strong communication, teamwork, and multitasking abilities improve service quality and career growth.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Evanston
Several popular local establishments often look for skilled Waitresses:
- Graduate Evanston
- Found Kitchen and Social House
- The Stained Glass
- Boltwood
- Tapas Barcelona
Establishments That Waitresses in Evanston Work At
Waitresses typically find work in a variety of dining establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These often offer steady hours and moderate pay, with tips depending on customer volume.
- Fine Dining: Upscale restaurants can offer higher base pay and significantly better tips due to more expensive menus and affluent clientele.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: These may offer less pay and fewer tips but provide valuable experience and flexible schedules.
- Bars and Nightclubs: Waitresses working in venues serving alcohol can earn more with tips but typically require ServSafe Alcohol Certification.
The type of establishment substantially impacts total earnings as tip potential and base pay vary widely.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Evanston for Waitresses
Careers similar to Waitress often include roles with customer interaction and service responsibilities. Here are a few related jobs to consider:
The roles of Server, Fine Dining Server, and Banquet Server all involve related skills with varying settings and service levels.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Evanston
Waitresses in Evanston should be informed about federal, state, and local labor regulations impacting their employment.
- Federal labor laws and regulations can be reviewed at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The Illinois Department of Employment Security provides state-specific labor laws and unemployment information.
- Local employment policies and resources are available at the official website of Evanston, IL.