Waitress Salary in Lakeland, FL
Waitresses in Lakeland, FL, in 2025, earn approximately $19.37 per hour, which translates to about $774.80 per week, $3,357.47 per month, and $40,289.60 per year.
The demand for Waitresses in Lakeland is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job outlook and increasing opportunities in the hospitality and food service sectors.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Lakeland, FL?
The salary of a Waitress in Lakeland can vary based on experience and employer type. Below is a breakdown of typical earning levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.37 | $774.80 | $3,357.47 | $40,289.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $30.84 | $1,233.60 | $5,331.20 | $63,979.20 |
Do Waitresses in Lakeland Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses in Lakeland typically earn tips, which can significantly boost their income. On average, a Waitress can make an extra $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and service quality.
Waitress Salary in Lakeland vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn about $17.80 per hour, which amounts to approximately $37,024 per year.
Compared to the national average, Waitresses in Lakeland earn a higher average hourly wage of $19.37 per hour and an annual salary of $40,289.60. This reflects a competitive pay scale in the Lakeland area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lakeland for Waitresses
Specific areas near Lakeland offer higher wages for Waitresses:
- Downtown Lakeland: $21.50 per hour
- Lakeland Highlands: $22.00 per hour
Working in these neighborhoods may provide better earning options due to customer volume and establishment types.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Lakeland?
Several factors can affect the earnings of a Waitress in Lakeland:
- Experience and Skills: More experienced Waitresses often earn higher wages and tips due to efficiency and better service quality.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or busy tourist venues typically pay more and offer higher tips than casual dining spots.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts often come with higher demand and opportunity for tips.
- Customer Volume: High-traffic locations provide increased tipping potential.
- Local Economic Factors: The cost of living and regional competition also impact wages.
How To Become a Waitress in Lakeland
Starting a career as a Waitress in Lakeland involves several key steps:
- Enroll in Hospitality Programs: Polk State College Hospitality and Tourism Management Program offers foundational courses in hospitality management, customer service, and food safety.
- Gain Culinary Skills: The Traviss Technical College Culinary Arts Program provides practical training in food preparation and kitchen operations that can enhance job prospects.
- Obtain Certifications: Certifications like ServSafe Food Handler Certification and TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification increase employability and demonstrate professionalism.
- Develop Customer Service Skills: Strong communication and multitasking abilities are essential for success as a Waitress.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Lakeland
Major employers recruiting for Waitress positions in Lakeland include:
- Waffle House
- Cracker Barrel
- Outback Steakhouse
Establishments That Waitresses in Lakeland Work At
Waitresses typically find jobs in various types of establishments, each influencing their salary:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Most common workplaces offering steady hours but moderate pay.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Often faster-paced environments with varying tipping opportunities.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Higher wages and more substantial tips due to premium service expectations.
- Hotels and Resorts: May pay more and include potential for extra benefits.
The employer type greatly affects everything from base pay to tip earnings.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lakeland for Waitress
If you're interested in careers related to being a Waitress, consider the following roles which have similarities in skillsets and work environment.
These positions include Server, Banquet Server, and Backwaiter roles.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Lakeland
Understanding labor laws and tax regulations is important for Waitresses to protect their rights and comply with local and federal requirements.
- Information on labor laws can be found on the Federal U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The official Florida state website provides resources specific to state employment regulations and labor laws.