Waitress Salary in Lexington, KY
Waitresses in Lexington, KY, in 2025, earn approximately $14.87 per hour, which translates to about $594.80 per week, $2,577.47 per month, and $30,929.60 per year.
The job outlook for Waitresses in Lexington is positive, with an estimated growth rate of 5% per year, indicating steady demand and opportunities in the hospitality sector.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Lexington, KY?
The salary of a Waitress in Lexington can vary based on experience and place of employment. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $8.68 | $347.20 | $1,505.87 | $18,054.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.87 | $594.80 | $2,577.47 | $30,929.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $25.47 | $1,018.80 | $4,404.20 | $52,977.60 |
Do Waitresses in Lexington Earn Tips?
Waitresses typically earn tips in addition to their hourly wage. Tips can significantly supplement income, often amounting to an extra $10 per hour or sometimes more depending on the establishment and clientele.
Waitress Salary in Lexington vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn on average $17.50 per hour, which amounts to approximately $36,400 per year.
Compared to this, a Waitress in Lexington earns slightly less at $14.87 per hour and $30,929.60 annually. This difference reflects local economic factors including cost of living and restaurant market dynamics.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lexington for Waitresses
Nearby areas offering higher wages for Waitresses include:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- Chevy Chase: $17.60 per hour
Working in Chevy Chase or Downtown can provide Waitresses with better pay, making them desirable locations for employment.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Lexington?
Various factors impact the earnings of Waitresses in Lexington:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Waitresses who provide excellent service can command higher wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining venues typically offer higher base wages and more tips compared to casual or fast-food restaurants.
- Shift and Hours: Evening or weekend shifts might provide higher tip opportunities or shift differentials.
- Location: Working in high-traffic or affluent areas like Chevy Chase can boost income.
- Customer Volume: Busy restaurants allow Waitresses to serve more customers and potentially earn more tips.
How To Become a Waitress in Lexington
Starting a career as a Waitress in Lexington involves some key steps:
- Obtain Relevant Certifications: Earning a Kentucky Food Handlers Certification is required to ensure safe food handling.
- Alcohol Service Certification: TIPS Alcohol Certification provides training for responsible alcohol service, which is important in many Lexington establishments.
- Consider Hospitality Education: Programs like the Bluegrass Community and Technical College Culinary Arts Program and the University of Kentucky Hospitality Management and Tourism Program can provide foundational skills and career advancement opportunities.
- Gain Work Experience: Entry-level positions in food service or hosting can provide valuable experience before becoming a full-time Waitress.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Lexington
Lexington’s vibrant dining scene includes many popular employers for Waitresses:
- Dudley’s on Short
- Coles 735 Main
- Jeff Ruby's Steakhouse
- Portofino's Italian Kitchen
- Lockbox
Establishments That Waitresses in Lexington Work At
Waitresses in Lexington find employment opportunities at a variety of establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These provide steady shifts but generally lower base pay with moderate tips.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Usually offer higher wages and greater tip potential due to upscale clientele.
- Fast Casual or Quick Service: These venues often pay minimum wage with less or no tipping.
- Banquets and Event Venues: Can offer temporary or part-time work with high tip opportunities during events.
The mix of base salary and tips can vary significantly based on the type of establishment and its customer base.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lexington for Waitresses
If you're interested in careers similar to Waitressing, here are some related roles worth considering:
These include Server, Fine Dining Server, and Backwaiter positions, which involve customer interaction and varied work environments within the hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Lexington
Waitresses should familiarize themselves with federal, state, and local labor laws and tax regulations to ensure proper workplace standards and compliance.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for nationwide employment rules.
- For state-specific information, the Kentucky Career Center provides resources on employment rights and labor standards.
- The Official city website offers local guidance and resources for workers in Lexington.