Waitress Salary in Fort Worth, TX
Waitresses in Fort Worth, TX, in 2026, earn approximately $16.42 per hour, which translates to about $656.80 per week, $2,846.13 per month, and $34,153.60 per year.
The demand for Waitresses in Fort Worth is growing at a rate of about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook with increasing job opportunities in this dynamic hospitality sector.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Fort Worth, TX?
The salary of a Waitress in Fort Worth varies based on experience and employer, offering different pay scales from entry-level to top earners.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $8.55 | $342.00 | $1,482.00 | $17,784.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.42 | $656.80 | $2,846.13 | $34,153.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $31.51 | $1,260.40 | $5,448.67 | $65,500.80 |
Do Waitresses in Fort Worth Earn Tips?
Waitresses typically earn tips in addition to their base salary. In Fort Worth, a Waitress can expect to earn an additional approximately $10 per hour in tips, significantly enhancing total earnings and reflecting the importance of excellent customer service.
Waitress Salary in Fort Worth vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn an average of around $17.47 per hour, which translates to about $36,337.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Waitresses in Fort Worth earn slightly less hourly at $16.42 per hour, and their annual salary is approximately $34,153.60. This difference can be influenced by the local cost of living and market demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Fort Worth for Waitresses
Nearby cities offer varying wage levels for Waitresses, including:
- Grapevine: $19.51 per hour
- Dallas: $16.83 per hour
Grapevine offers the highest pay among nearby cities, which could be attractive for Waitresses interested in maximizing their earnings within the region.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Fort Worth?
Several factors can impact the salary of a Waitress in Fort Worth:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Waitresses with strong communication and customer service skills tend to earn better wages and receive higher tips.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale or fine dining restaurants generally offers higher pay and tips compared to fast food or casual dining.
- Shift Hours: Evening and weekend shifts often come with higher tipping opportunities and sometimes premium pay.
- Location: Urban areas with higher living costs tend to pay Waitresses more to compensate for expenses.
- Certifications: Certifications like the Texas Food Handler Certification and TABC Certification can qualify Waitresses for more roles and better pay in establishments serving alcohol.
How To Become a Waitress in Fort Worth
To pursue a career as a Waitress in Fort Worth, you can consider the following steps:
- Complete Basic Food Service Training: Enroll in programs such as the Tarrant County College Culinary Arts Program or Fort Worth Culinary School to gain foundational skills.
- Obtain Required Certifications: Ensure you have a valid Texas Food Handler Certification and possibly a TABC Certification if working in venues serving alcohol.
- Build Experience: Start with entry-level positions in casual dining or fast food to develop practical skills and customer interaction experience.
- Develop Soft Skills: Enhancing communication, multitasking, and customer service skills can lead to better job prospects and higher earnings.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Fort Worth
Several well-known establishments actively hire Waitresses in Fort Worth, such as:
- Waffle House
- Olive Garden
- Chili's
- Texas Roadhouse
- Outback Steakhouse
Establishments That Waitresses in Fort Worth Work At
Waitresses in Fort Worth typically find employment in various types of establishments:
- Fast Casual and Casual Dining: These venues often have higher turnover but offer steady employment and experience-building opportunities.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Usually pay more and provide higher tips due to the upscale clientele.
- Bars and Nightclubs: May offer higher tips during busy hours but can involve more demanding work conditions.
The type of establishment can greatly affect both the base salary and tips a Waitress earns, with fine dining and popular bars generally providing the best pay.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Fort Worth for Waitresses
If you are interested in careers similar to a Waitress, consider these related roles
These include Server, Backwaiter, and Banquet Server positions, which involve many overlapping skills and responsibilities within hospitality.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Fort Worth
Understanding labor laws and taxes is important for Waitresses working in Fort Worth. Key resources include:
- Check Texas state labor laws and employment regulations on the official Texas government website.
- For federal labor standards and worker rights, visit the U.S. Department of Labor's site at dol.gov.