Waitress Salary in Huntington, WV
Waitresses in Huntington, WV, in 2025, earn approximately $11.00 per hour, which translates to about $440.00 per week, $1,906.67 per month, and $22,880.00 per year.
The job demand for Waitresses in Huntington is growing at around 5% per year, indicating an upward trend and increasing opportunities in the food service industry in the area.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Huntington, WV?
The salary of a Waitress in Huntington varies depending on experience and employer, but below is a breakdown across various levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $9.00 | $360.00 | $1,560.00 | $18,720.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $11.00 | $440.00 | $1,906.67 | $22,880.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $12.00 | $480.00 | $2,080.00 | $24,960.00 |
Do Waitresses in Huntington Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses in Huntington typically earn tips. On average, they can make an additional $5 to $15 per hour in tips depending on the restaurant type and customer volume, significantly boosting their overall income.
Waitress Salary in Huntington vs. National Average
Nationally, the average Waitress earns about $14.50 per hour, which amounts to roughly $30,160 per year.
Compared to this, Waitresses in Huntington earn a bit less with an average of $11.00 per hour and $22,880 annually, reflecting regional cost of living and economic factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Huntington for Waitresses
Nearby areas offer slightly varied pay rates for Waitresses:
- Downtown: $12.00 per hour
- Southside: $11.50 per hour
Those working in Downtown Huntington generally enjoy the highest hourly wages within close proximity.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Huntington?
Multiple factors can impact how much a Waitress makes in Huntington, including:
- Experience Level: More experienced wait staff tend to command higher wages and better tips.
- Skills: Strong customer service and multitasking can enhance earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining and upscale restaurants generally pay more wages and tips than casual dining.
- Shift Hours: Evening or weekend shifts can sometimes offer premium pay or higher tipping opportunities.
- Local Economy: Economic conditions and demand for food service workers in Huntington influence wages.
How To Become a Waitress in Huntington
Becoming a Waitress in Huntington typically involves a few key steps:
- Obtain Required Food Safety Permits: The West Virginia Food Handler's Permit is mandatory for all food service employees, ensuring knowledge of safe food handling.
- Develop Customer Service Skills: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are essential for wait staff positions.
- Gain Relevant Experience: Entry-level positions or internships can provide valuable hands-on experience.
- Complete Hospitality or Culinary Training: Programs such as the Marshall University Hospitality Management Program or the Mountwest Community & Technical College Culinary Arts Program can increase job readiness.
- Consider Additional Certifications: The TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification can be valuable if you work in establishments serving alcohol.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Huntington
Several well-known restaurant groups in Huntington frequently hire Waitresses, including:
- Texas Roadhouse
- Red Lobster
- Bob Evans Restaurants
- Roosters Restaurants
- Thrive Restaurant Group
Establishments That Waitresses in Huntington Work At
Waitresses in Huntington typically work in a variety of establishments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer steady hours and a friendly environment, but typically moderate wages.
- Fast Casual Chains: While pay may be lower, these establishments often have a higher volume of customers and opportunities for tips.
- Fine Dining Venues: These generally offer higher hourly wages and greater tips due to upscale clientele and service standards.
- Family Restaurants and Diners: Often provide flexible schedules and a comfortable setting, with tips varying by location.
The type of establishment greatly influences the total compensation a Waitress can earn in Huntington.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Huntington for Waitresses
If you are exploring career options similar to Waitress, these roles might interest you:
These include Backwaiter, Bartender, and Server positions, which similarly interact with customers and involve food service skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Huntington
It is important for Waitresses in Huntington to understand both federal and state labor laws as well as local regulations affecting their employment.
- For federal labor guidelines visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For West Virginia state-specific labor law information, check the West Virginia Division of Labor website.
- For local Huntington ordinances and services, the Official City of Huntington website is a good resource.