Waitress Salary in Lees-Summit, MO
Waitresses in Lees-Summit, MO, in 2025, earn approximately $18.40 per hour, which translates to about $736.00 per week, $3,189.33 per month, and $38,272.00 per year.
The demand for Waitresses in Lees-Summit is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive trend and increasing opportunities in the region for this position.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Lees-Summit, MO?
The salary of a Waitress in Lees-Summit varies depending on experience and workplace, but the following overview provides an idea of earnings across different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.16 | $486.40 | $2,101.33 | $25,252.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.40 | $736.00 | $3,189.33 | $38,272.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $27.84 | $1,113.60 | $4,821.33 | $57,772.80 |
Do Waitresses in Lees-Summit Earn Tips?
Waitresses typically earn tips on top of their base salary. In Lees-Summit, a Waitress can earn an extra $10 per hour in tips, enhancing overall earnings significantly depending on the establishment and customer volume.
Waitress Salary in Lees-Summit, MO vs. National Average
Nationally, the average hourly wage for a Waitress is about $17.20 per hour, which totals to approximately $35,776 per year.
Compared to the national average, Waitresses in Lees-Summit earn slightly more, with an average hourly rate of $18.40 and annual earnings of $38,272.
This difference could be influenced by local market conditions, cost of living, and demand for hospitality services.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lees-Summit for Waitresses
Nearby areas with higher pay rates for Waitresses include:
- Downtown: $19.50 per hour
- New Longview: $18.70 per hour
Waitresses may find better compensation in Downtown Lees-Summit compared to other nearby locations.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Lees-Summit?
Several factors can affect how much a Waitress earns in Lees-Summit, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Waitresses with strong customer service skills tend to earn higher wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants, hotels, or busy venues usually offers higher pay and more substantial tips compared to casual or fast-food settings.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts often come with higher tip potential.
- Local Economic Conditions: The overall demand for hospitality workers and regional cost of living also influence salaries.
How To Become a Waitress in Lees-Summit
Becoming a Waitress in Lees-Summit involves several steps to ensure readiness for the job:
- Education and Training: While formal education is not always required, completing programs such as the Metropolitan Community College Culinary Arts Program or Johnson County Community College Hospitality Management can be beneficial.
- Certifications: Obtaining certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and the Missouri Responsible Serving Certification can enhance job prospects and are often required by employers.
- Develop Customer Service Skills: Strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential for excelling in this role.
- Gain Experience: Entry-level positions or externships can help build practical experience.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Lees-Summit
Several notable establishments actively hire Waitresses in Lees-Summit:
- Chili's
- Third Street Social
- Pearl Tavern
Establishments That Waitresses in Lees-Summit Work At
Waitresses typically find employment across various types of establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer stable hours and decent tips but possibly lower base wages.
- Fast Casual Eateries: These may provide more hours but often have a faster pace with different tipping dynamics.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Higher tips and wages are common here due to upscale clientele and service expectations.
- Bars and Taverns: Earnings can differ widely depending on alcohol sales and customer volume.
The type of establishment significantly influences overall compensation, combining base salary and tips.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lees-Summit for Waitresses
If you're exploring other careers in hospitality related to Waitressing, consider the following roles:
These include Server, Fine Dining Server, and Backwaiter, all offering roles with some overlapping skills and varied salary prospects.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Lees-Summit
Waitresses should be aware of the labor laws and tax obligations relevant to their employment in Lees-Summit.
- Federal labor laws and regulations can be found on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For Missouri-specific employment laws and worker rights, visit the Missouri Department of Labor website.
- Local guidelines and community resources are available on the Official City of Lees-Summit website.