Waitress Salary in Knoxville, TN
Waitresses in Knoxville, TN, in 2026, earn approximately $20.17 per hour, which translates to about $806.80 per week, $3,496.13 per month, and $41,953.60 per year.
The demand for Waitresses in Knoxville is growing positively at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy job market and increasing opportunities for those interested in this role in the hospitality sector.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Knoxville, TN?
The salary of a Waitress in Knoxville varies widely depending on the level of experience, location, and type of establishment. Here's a breakdown by experience level for hourly, weekly, monthly, and yearly earnings.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.12 | $484.80 | $2,102.40 | $25,209.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.17 | $806.80 | $3,496.13 | $41,953.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $33.57 | $1,342.80 | $5,818.80 | $69,585.60 |
Do Waitresses in Knoxville Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses in Knoxville typically earn tips, which can significantly increase their income. On average, a Waitress might earn an extra $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and customer volume. Tips are a crucial part of total compensation in this role.
Waitress Salary in Knoxville vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn an average of around $17.54 per hour, equating to approximately $36,483.20 per year.
Compared to this, Waitresses in Knoxville earn a higher average wage of $20.17 per hour, which translates to about $41,953.60 annually. This suggests that Knoxville offers competitive wages for Waitresses relative to the national average.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Knoxville for Waitresses
Nearby areas offer varying pay levels for Waitresses:
- Downtown Knoxville: $25.69 per hour
- West Knoxville: $40.00 per hour
Those working in West Knoxville can expect notably higher hourly pay, reflecting the area's demand and possibly upscale establishments.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Knoxville?
A variety of factors impact how much a Waitress earns in Knoxville:
- Experience Level and Skills: More experienced Waitresses with excellent customer service and multitasking abilities command higher wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, fine dining, or venues with high volume often offer higher base pay and better tips than casual dining or fast food.
- Shift Timing and Hours Worked: Evening and weekend shifts may come with shift differentials or more tip opportunities.
- Location: Working in areas like West Knoxville can lead to higher pay because of customer demographics and restaurant caliber.
- Certifications: Possessing certifications related to food safety or alcohol service can improve employment options and pay rates.
How To Become a Waitress in Knoxville
Becoming a successful Waitress in Knoxville involves a combination of training, certification, and experience.
- Complete Relevant Training Programs: Programs like Pellissippi State Community College Culinary Arts Program and the University of Tennessee Hospitality Management Program can provide foundational knowledge relevant to food service and hospitality.
- Obtain Necessary Permits and Certifications: The Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission Server Permit is required for those serving alcohol, ensuring responsible service.
- Earn Food Safety Credentials: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is nationally recognized and important for demonstrating knowledge of food safety practices.
- Gain Practical Experience: Starting with entry-level roles in restaurants helps develop customer service skills and familiarity with dining environments.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Knoxville
Prominent employers frequently seeking Waitresses in Knoxville include:
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Aubrey's Restaurant Group
- Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen
- Copper Cellar Family of Restaurants
- Condado Tacos
Establishments That Waitresses in Knoxville Work At
Waitresses in Knoxville find work in:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Offering a balanced work environment and moderate wages combined with tip income.
- Fast Casual Establishments: These often have a faster pace with slightly lower base wages but can offer more consistent hours.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Generally provide higher base pay and larger tip pools owing to higher check averages.
- Bars and Nightclubs: Positions here may depend heavily on tips and require specialized knowledge such as responsible alcohol service.
The type of establishment has a clear impact on overall earnings, with fine dining and specialty venues typically paying more both in salary and tips.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Knoxville for Waitresses
If you are exploring roles related to Waitressing, consider these similar hospitality careers:
These roles include Server, Backwaiter, and Fine Dining Server, each offering different responsibilities and pay ranges within the food service industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Knoxville
Waitresses must be knowledgeable about labor laws and tax regulations that apply to their role.
- Official website of the State of Tennessee offers comprehensive information on state labor laws and regulations relevant to employees.
- U.S. Department of Labor website provides resources on federal labor standards, wage laws, and workplace rights.