Waitress Salary in Fargo, ND
Waitresses in Fargo, ND, in 2026, earn approximately $18.22 per hour, which translates to about $728.80 per week, $3,158.13 per month, and $37,897.60 per year.
The demand for Waitresses in Fargo is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing job opportunities in the food service industry within the city.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Fargo, ND?
The salary of a Waitress in Fargo varies with experience and skills. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $9.33 | $373.20 | $1,616.80 | $19,390.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.22 | $728.80 | $3,158.13 | $37,897.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $35.56 | $1,422.40 | $6,157.07 | $73,964.80 |
Do Waitresses in Fargo Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses in Fargo commonly earn tips. They can make an extra $10 per hour in tips on average, which significantly enhances their overall income beyond their base salary.
Waitress Salary in Fargo vs. National Average
Nationally, the average hourly wage for a Waitress is around $18.22 per hour and the yearly salary averages to $37,897.60.
Waitresses in Fargo earn roughly the same as the national average, reflecting the city's competitive pay rates for this role relative to other parts of the country.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Fargo for Waitresses
Looking at nearby areas within Fargo, salary rates can vary slightly:
- Downtown Fargo: $20.50 per hour
- West Acres: $19.00 per hour
The Downtown Fargo area tends to offer higher wages for Waitresses compared to West Acres, possibly due to a higher concentration of upscale dining establishments and increased customer volume.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Fargo?
The salary of a Waitress in Fargo can be influenced by several factors:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Waitresses with strong communication and multitasking skills tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants usually pay better compared to casual or fast-food outlets.
- Shift and Hours Worked: Evening and weekend shifts may offer higher pay or more tips.
- Customer Base and Location: Busy or upscale areas tend to yield higher tips and wages.
- Certification and Training: Knowledge of food safety and hospitality practices can improve earning potential.
How To Become a Waitress in Fargo
Becoming a Waitress in Fargo involves a few key steps to gain employment and maximize earnings:
- Obtain Required Food Safety Certifications: Acquiring a North Dakota Food Handler's Permit is essential for working in food service to ensure safe food handling practices.
- Pursue Hospitality Training Programs: Enrolling in programs like the North Dakota State University Hospitality and Tourism Management Program or the Minnesota State Community and Technical College Culinary Arts Program can provide valuable skills and knowledge.
- Gain Practical Experience: Starting in entry-level roles within restaurants to develop serving and customer service skills is highly recommended.
- Develop Strong Interpersonal Skills: Being friendly, attentive, and efficient improves customer satisfaction and tip potential.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Fargo
Fargo features a variety of dining establishments actively seeking experienced Waitresses, including:
- The Boiler Room
- Mezzaluna
- Surf Club Restaurant and Sushi Bar
Establishments That Waitresses in Fargo Work At
Waitresses in Fargo typically work in a range of establishments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These establishments offer stable shifts and moderate wages with opportunity for tips.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Tend to provide higher base pay and more generous tipping due to clientele.
- Fast Casual and Cafés: Usually provide lower base wages, but steady customer flow can improve hourly earnings.
- Bars and Clubs: May offer more variable income depending on the crowd and shift hours.
The type of establishment directly affects monthly and yearly income levels for Waitresses based on wage rates and tip potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Fargo for Waitresses
If you are considering similar roles within the hospitality sector in Fargo, here are several related positions:
These include Backwaiter, Bartender, and Waiter/Waitress roles, which involve similar customer service and hospitality duties.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Fargo
Waitresses in Fargo should be familiar with state and federal labor laws impacting their work conditions and pay.
- You can find North Dakota state labor regulations at the official North Dakota website.
- The U.S. Department of Labor website provides comprehensive resources on federal labor standards, minimum wage, and overtime rules.