Waitress Salary in Jackson, MS
Waitresses in Jackson, MS, in 2025, earn approximately $15.29 per hour, which translates to about $611.60 per week, $2,650.27 per month, and $31,803.20 per year.
The demand for Waitresses in Jackson is growing positively at about 5% per year, reflecting increasing opportunities in the hospitality sector in this region.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Jackson, MS?
The salary of a Waitress in Jackson can vary depending on experience and employer, but here is a general overview across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $8.98 | $359.20 | $1,556.27 | $18,670.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.29 | $611.60 | $2,650.27 | $31,803.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $26.04 | $1,041.60 | $4,518.40 | $54,163.20 |
Do Waitresses in Jackson Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses in Jackson typically earn tips as a significant part of their income. They can make an extra $10 per hour in tips on busy days, which greatly enhances their overall earnings.
Waitress Salary in Jackson vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn an average of about $17 per hour, or roughly $35,360 per year.
Compared to the national average, Waitresses in Jackson make slightly less hourly at $15.29 per hour and $31,803.20 annually. This reflects regional wage variations and living cost differences.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Jackson for Waitresses
Nearby areas offer the following salary ranges for Waitresses:
- Ridgeland: $16.06 per hour
- Southaven: $17.28 per hour
Waitresses in Southaven earn notably higher hourly wages compared to Jackson, indicating better pay opportunities close by.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Jackson?
Several factors influence the salary level for Waitresses in Jackson, MS:
- Experience: More experienced Waitresses often earn higher wages and better tips due to efficiency and customer rapport.
- Skills: Strong customer service and multitasking skills can lead to higher earnings and better job stability.
- Type of Establishment: Waitresses in upscale restaurants or busy sports bars usually make more than those in casual diners or fast food outlets.
- Shift Hours: Working peak hours, evenings, or weekends may result in higher tip income.
- Local Economy: The regional economic conditions and cost of living affect base wages.
How To Become a Waitress in Jackson
Becoming a Waitress in Jackson involves several steps to enhance your employability and earnings potential:
- Obtain Food Handling Certifications: Completing courses like the ServSafe Food Handler Program demonstrates essential food safety knowledge.
- Develop Customer Service Skills: Community college programs such as Customer Service Excellence Training can boost interpersonal abilities.
- Get Certified in Alcohol Service Safety: Certifications like TIPS Certification are often required for serving alcoholic beverages responsibly.
- Gain Experience: Start in entry-level positions, volunteering to learn the ropes and steadily advance.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Jackson
Some of the key establishments actively hiring Waitresses in Jackson, MS include:
- Vibe Sports Bar & Grill
- Twin Peaks Restaurants
- McDonald's
Establishments That Waitresses in Jackson Work At
Waitresses in Jackson predominantly work in the following types of establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer steady schedules with moderate wages and opportunities for tips.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Usually involve faster service, potentially lower tips but more consistent hours.
- Sports Bars and Grills: Tend to offer higher tips during busy games and events.
- Fast Food Chains: Typically pay hourly wages with little or no tipping involved.
The type of establishment significantly impacts both the base salary and tip income of a Waitress.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Jackson for Waitresses
If you are interested in similar roles within hospitality, consider exploring these alternatives:
These similar roles include Server, Banquet Server, and Backwaiter, which share many job aspects and have related earnings profiles.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Jackson
Understanding employment laws and tax responsibilities is important for Waitresses working in Jackson, MS.
- Helpful information on state employment regulations can be found at the Mississippi Department of Employment Security.
- For federal guidelines, including minimum wage and labor standards, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.