Waitress Salary in Fort Lauderdale, FL
Waitresses in Fort Lauderdale, FL, in 2025, earn approximately $16.56 per hour, which translates to about $662.40 per week, $2,870.40 per month, and $34,444.80 per year.
The demand for Waitresses in Fort Lauderdale is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities and career growth in the hospitality sector in this city.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Fort Lauderdale, FL?
The salary of a Waitress in Fort Lauderdale varies depending on experience and skill level. Here's a breakdown of expected earnings at different levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $25.00 | $1,000.00 | $4,333.33 | $52,000.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $33.00 | $1,320.00 | $5,700.00 | $68,640.00 |
Do Waitresses in Fort Lauderdale Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses in Fort Lauderdale often earn tips. Typically, they can make an extra $10 per hour in tips depending on the establishment, which significantly supplements their base salary.
Waitress Salary in Fort Lauderdale vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn an average of about $14.67 per hour, or roughly $30,513.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Waitresses in Fort Lauderdale earn a higher base hourly rate of $16.56 per hour and annual earnings around $34,444.80, reflecting the local market and cost of living factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Fort Lauderdale for Waitresses
Nearby areas around Fort Lauderdale offer varying wages for Waitresses:
- Downtown: $27.00 per hour
- Las Olas: $30.00 per hour
Waitresses working in Las Olas tend to earn the highest salaries nearby, followed by Downtown Fort Lauderdale.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Fort Lauderdale?
Several factors can influence how much a Waitress earns in Fort Lauderdale:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Waitresses who demonstrate excellent customer service skills often command higher pay and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and fine dining venues tend to pay more compared to casual or fast-food restaurants.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts might offer differential pay or higher tip earning opportunities.
- Location: Waitresses working in prime areas such as Las Olas usually earn more due to affluent clientele.
How To Become a Waitress in Fort Lauderdale
To start a career as a Waitress in Fort Lauderdale, consider the following steps:
- Complete Hospitality Training: Programs such as the Broward College Hospitality and Tourism Management Program or Florida Atlantic University’s Hospitality Management Program provide valuable skills for the hospitality industry.
- Obtain Relevant Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensure knowledge of food safety practices, while the TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification is helpful for responsible alcohol service.
- Gain Customer Service Experience: Previous experience in retail or food service roles can improve job prospects.
- Develop Key Skills: Strong communication, multitasking, and attentiveness to customers are essential skills for success.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale’s thriving restaurant scene includes several top employers for Waitresses:
- The Capital Grille
- Ruth's Chris Steak House
- Seasons 52
- Morton's The Steakhouse
- Truluck's
Establishments That Waitresses in Fort Lauderdale Work At
Waitresses in Fort Lauderdale typically find employment at:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer a steady flow of customers and moderate pay.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Such venues provide higher base pay and larger tips due to the premium service and clientele.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: These have quicker service and usually lower pay and tipping opportunities.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger venues often provide consistent work and benefits, which can affect overall compensation.
The type of establishment has a significant impact on both the base salary and tip potential for Waitresses.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Fort Lauderdale for Waitresses
If you are considering related roles in hospitality, here are some similar careers worth exploring:
These include Server, Fine Dining Server, and Backwaiter roles, which share several responsibilities and may appeal to those interested in varied hospitality careers.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Fort Lauderdale
It is important for Waitresses to be knowledgeable about applicable labor laws and taxes.
- Visit the Federal Department of Labor website for comprehensive labor regulations and standards.
- Check the State of Florida's official employment site for local employment laws and job resources.
- For specific county-level information, the Broward County website provides valuable resources and updates.