Waitress Salary in Kansas City, MO
Waitresses in Kansas City, MO in 2025 earn approximately $20.83 per hour, which translates to about $833.20 per week, $3,610.53 per month, and $43,326.40 per year.
The demand for Waitresses in Kansas City is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities in the hospitality and food service industry in the region.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Kansas City, MO?
The salary of a Waitress in Kansas City can vary significantly depending on experience, location, and employer. Below is a breakdown of earnings across different experience levels for typical 40-hour work weeks:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.75 | $550.00 | $2,383.33 | $28,600.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.83 | $833.20 | $3,610.53 | $43,326.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $37.78 | $1,511.20 | $6,555.47 | $78,374.40 |
Do Waitresses in Kansas City Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses in Kansas City typically earn tips as a significant part of their income. On average, a Waitress can make an extra $10 to $15 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and customer traffic. Tips can substantially boost the overall earnings and are a vital component to consider when evaluating total compensation.
Waitress Salary in Kansas City vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn an average of around $17.50 per hour, translating to approximately $36,400 per year.
Compared to the national average, Waitresses in Kansas City earn more, with an average hourly wage of $20.83 and an annual pay of about $43,326.40. This reflects a slightly higher salary level that can be attributed to local labor market conditions and demand within the hospitality sector in Kansas City.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Kansas City for Waitresses
When considering nearby areas to Kansas City, wages for Waitresses vary slightly across neighborhoods:
- Downtown: $22.50 per hour
- Country Club Plaza: $21.80 per hour
These areas tend to offer better pay due to the concentration of upscale restaurants and higher customer volumes, which can also increase tip earnings.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Kansas City?
Several factors influence how much a Waitress can earn in Kansas City:
- Experience Level: Experienced Waitresses with strong customer service skills tend to earn higher wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining and upscale restaurants generally pay more than casual dining and fast casual venues.
- Skill and Efficiency: Efficient multitasking, knowledge of menu items, and upselling abilities can enhance earning potential.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts may include higher tip opportunities and sometimes shift differentials.
- Local Economic Conditions: Wage levels often reflect the cost of living and economic activity in Kansas City.
How To Become a Waitress in Kansas City
Beginning a career as a Waitress in Kansas City involves several important steps:
- Obtain Relevant Certifications: Securing certifications like ServSafe Food Handler Certification and TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification can improve employability by ensuring food safety knowledge and responsible alcohol service skills.
- Consider Hospitality Training Programs: Enrolling in programs such as the Johnson County Community College Culinary Arts Program or the Metropolitan Community College Hospitality Management Program can provide valuable background in food service and hospitality management.
- Gain Customer Service Experience: Experience in retail or hospitality settings enhances interpersonal skills important for waitstaff roles.
- Develop Communication and Multitasking Skills: These skills are critical for effectively managing multiple tables and taking accurate orders.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Kansas City
Several popular and reputable restaurants in Kansas City are known for hiring Waitresses:
- The Capital Grille
- Eddie V's Prime Seafood
- Jack Stack Barbecue
- The Cheesecake Factory
- McCormick & Schmick's
Establishments That Waitresses in Kansas City Work At
Waitresses in Kansas City find employment opportunities across various types of dining establishments, including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These establishments offer higher wages and better tips due to an upscale clientele and premium service expectations.
- Casual Dining: Popular chain restaurants and local diners offer steady employment but tend to have moderate pay.
- Fast Casual: While some waitstaff roles exist here, salaries and tips are usually lower compared to full-service restaurants.
- Bars and Nightclubs: Waitresses serving alcoholic beverages can expect additional tip income but may require TIPS certification.
The type of establishment directly affects the earning potential, with fine dining typically offering the best combination of salary and tips.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Kansas City for Waitresses
If you're exploring careers related to Waitressing, you might consider other roles in the hospitality industry that share similar skills and work environments.
These careers include Server, Fine Dining Server, and Backwaiter, providing alternative pathways in the food service and hospitality sectors.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Kansas City
Being knowledgeable about labor laws and tax requirements is vital for Waitresses to ensure fair treatment and compliance with regulations.
- For federal labor laws and regulations visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Details on Missouri-specific labor laws and resources are available at the Missouri Department of Labor and Industrial Relations website.
- Local government information and services for Kansas City, MO, can be accessed through the Official Kansas City website.