Waitress in Grand Rapids, MI
Waitresses in Grand Rapids, MI, in 2025, earn approximately $19.78 per hour, which translates to about $791.20 per week, $3,428.53 per month, and $41,142.40 per year.
The demand for Waitresses in Grand Rapids is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the foodservice industry in this region.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Grand Rapids, MI?
The salary of a Waitress in Grand Rapids can vary depending on experience and employer. Here's a breakdown of typical earnings by experience level:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.55 | $502.00 | $2,173.33 | $26,096.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.78 | $791.20 | $3,428.53 | $41,142.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $31.18 | $1,247.20 | $5,389.87 | $64,854.40 |
Do Waitresses in Grand Rapids Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses often earn tips in addition to their base salary. In Grand Rapids, a Waitress can typically make an extra $10 per hour in tips, significantly boosting overall earnings depending on the establishment and day’s business.
Waitress Salary in Grand Rapids vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn an average hourly wage of about $17.50, which translates to approximately $36,400 per year.
Compared to the national average, Waitresses in Grand Rapids earn a higher hourly rate of $19.78 and a yearly salary of about $41,142.40. This difference may be influenced by local market demand and living costs.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Grand Rapids for Waitresses
Some nearby areas offer the following average hourly wages for Waitresses:
- East Grand Rapids: $21.50 per hour
- Forest Hills: $22.00 per hour
These locations tend to provide slightly better compensation, likely due to differing demographics and customer bases in these communities.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Grand Rapids?
Experience plays a major role; more experienced Waitresses often secure higher wages and better tips.
Skills such as excellent customer service, multitasking, and knowledge of the menu can enhance earnings.
The type and size of establishment also matter. Upscale restaurants often pay more and yield better tips than casual dining spots.
Shift timing may influence pay, with evening or weekend shifts sometimes offering higher tips.
Finally, local economic conditions and competition affect wage levels.
How To Become a Waitress in Grand Rapids
To start a career as a Waitress in Grand Rapids, consider these steps:
- Gaining basic food safety knowledge through certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification.
- Completing culinary or hospitality programs like those at Grand Rapids Community College Culinary Arts Program or the Secchia Institute for Culinary Education can provide valuable skills.
- For establishments serving alcohol, obtaining a TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification is beneficial.
- Building experience through entry-level roles like Hostess or Busser to develop hospitality skills.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Grand Rapids
Several respected establishments frequently look for talented Waitresses in Grand Rapids, including:
- The Chop House
- Ruth's Chris Steak House
- Leo's Seafood Restaurant & Bar
Establishments That Waitresses in Grand Rapids Work At
Waitresses in Grand Rapids commonly work in different types of venues:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Offer steady hours but generally moderate pay and tips.
- Fine Dining: Tend to provide higher base pay and significantly better tips.
- Fast Casual and Cafés: Usually lower pay and limited tipping opportunities.
- Bars and Nightclubs: Can offer lucrative tip incomes depending on the crowd.
The nature of the establishment heavily influences both the hourly rate and tipping potential for Waitresses.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Grand Rapids for Waitresses
If you are exploring roles related to Waitressing, consider these similar careers:
These include Server, Backwaiter, and Fine Dining Server, which all share similar service-related skills and working environments.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Grand Rapids
Waitresses in Grand Rapids should be aware of both state and federal labor laws to understand their rights and obligations.
- For state-specific labor regulations, visit the Michigan government website which details wage laws and employment standards.
- Federal labor laws and employee rights are available at the U.S. Department of Labor website.