Waitress Salary in Kansas City, KS
Waitresses in Kansas City, KS, in 2026, earn approximately $24.64 per hour, which translates to about $985.60 per week, $4,270.93 per month, and $51,251.20 per year.
The demand for Waitresses in Kansas City is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job market outlook for serving roles in this region.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Kansas City, KS?
The salary of a Waitress in Kansas City can vary depending on experience and employer. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings for different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.58 | $623.20 | $2,698.13 | $32,390.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $24.64 | $985.60 | $4,270.93 | $51,251.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $38.96 | $1,558.40 | $6,739.73 | $80,876.80 |
Do Waitresses in Kansas City Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses in Kansas City typically earn tips, which can significantly supplement their income. On average, they might make an extra $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and clientele.
Waitress Salary in Kansas City vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn an average of about $17.60 per hour, which totals approximately $36,608 per year.
Compared to this, Waitresses in Kansas City, KS, earn a higher hourly rate of $24.64 and an annual salary of about $51,251.20, reflecting the region’s better-paying hospitality market.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Kansas City for Waitresses
Some nearby areas offer higher average wages for Waitresses:
- Downtown: $25.50 per hour
- Westport: $26.00 per hour
Waitresses working in Westport can expect to earn slightly more on average compared to Downtown Kansas City, making these neighborhoods attractive for those seeking higher pay.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Kansas City?
Several factors can influence how much a Waitress earns in Kansas City, KS:
- Experience: More experienced Waitresses tend to command higher wages and better tips.
- Skills and Customer Service: Exceptional interpersonal skills and ability to upsell can increase earnings.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants generally pay more than casual or fast-food venues.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts may offer higher tip opportunities or shift differentials.
- Location: Areas with higher customer traffic or more affluent patrons often yield better pay.
How To Become a Waitress in Kansas City
Becoming a Waitress in Kansas City is achievable through several practical steps and education options:
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensure knowledge of food safety (important for employment).
- Consider Hospitality Education: Programs such as the Johnson County Community College Culinary Arts Program or the Kansas City Kansas Community College Hospitality Management Program provide valuable foundational knowledge in food service and hospitality.
- Alcohol Service Training: Earning the TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification is beneficial for serving alcoholic beverages responsibly.
- Gain Experience: Start working in fast casual or casual dining to build skills in customer service and order handling.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Kansas City
Some of the major employers in the region that frequently hire Waitresses include:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Waitresses in Kansas City Work At
Waitresses in Kansas City typically work across a range of establishments:
- Casual Dining: These places offer moderate pay with steady tip earnings.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Often pay slightly less but provide high-volume work experience.
- Fine Dining: Usually offers the highest earning potential through better hourly wages and tips.
- Bars and Nightclubs: Can be lucrative due to high tip volume but may require specialized skills and certifications.
The establishment type greatly impacts total earnings, with fine dining locations providing the most lucrative opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Kansas City for Waitresses
If you're interested in similar roles within hospitality, consider these options:
These careers include Bartender, Fine Dining Server, and Server, roles closely related to Waitressing that offer varied working environments and earning potentials.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Kansas City
Waitresses should familiarize themselves with federal and state labor laws and tax requirements to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- Check labor standards and employment rights on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For Kansas-specific labor laws and resources, visit the Kansas government website.