Waitress Salary in Memphis, TN
Waitresses in Memphis, TN, in 2025, earn approximately $14.04 per hour, which translates to about $561.60 per week, $2,433.60 per month, and $29,203.20 per year.
The demand for Waitresses in Memphis is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a promising outlook for those seeking opportunities in the food service industry within the city.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Memphis, TN?
The salary of a Waitress in Memphis can vary depending on experience and employer, but here is a general overview across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $7.59 | $303.60 | $1,314.80 | $15,763.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.04 | $561.60 | $2,433.60 | $29,203.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $25.96 | $1,038.40 | $4,488.27 | $53,980.80 |
Do Waitresses in Memphis Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses typically earn tips in addition to their base pay. In Memphis, a Waitress can make approximately $10 or more per hour in tips, contributing significantly to their overall earnings.
Waitress Salary in Memphis vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn an average of about $17.33 per hour, corresponding to roughly $36,046.40 per year.
Compared to the national average, Waitresses in Memphis earn slightly less, with an average hourly wage of $14.04 and annual income around $29,203.20.
This variance may be influenced by local cost of living, economic factors, and employer capabilities in Memphis.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Memphis for Waitresses
Nearby areas offer varying salaries for Waitresses:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- Midtown: $17.60 per hour
Waitresses working in Midtown can typically expect higher wages than those in Downtown Memphis.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Memphis?
Several factors impact the salary of a Waitress in Memphis, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Waitresses with strong customer service skills often command higher wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants usually pay more compared to casual or fast-food locations.
- Shift Timing and Hours: Working peak hours, weekends, or holidays can increase earning potential due to higher tips.
- Location: Establishments in high-traffic areas or upscale neighborhoods tend to offer higher pay.
How To Become a Waitress in Memphis
Becoming a Waitress in Memphis involves several key steps and credentials that can improve job prospects and earnings:
- Culinary and Food Service Education: Programs like Southwest Tennessee Community College Culinary Arts Program or L'Ecole Culinaire Memphis provide valuable training for food service roles.
- Food Safety Certification: Possessing a ServSafe Food Handler Certification is often required and ensures knowledge of food safety protocols.
- Alcohol Server Permit: The Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission Server Permit is necessary for Waitresses serving alcohol, ensuring compliance with state laws.
- Gaining Experience: Many start in entry-level roles at fast casual or casual dining, building skills and customer service experience.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Memphis
Some prominent employers currently hiring Waitresses in Memphis include:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Waitresses in Memphis Work At
Waitresses in Memphis find work across various types of establishments including:
- Fast Food Restaurants: Offer entry-level opportunities but typically lower base pay and tips.
- Casual Dining: Provide moderate wages and tip potential, often with regular shifts.
- Fine Dining: Tend to offer higher wages and significantly higher tips due to upscale clientele and pricing.
- Bars and Nightclubs: Waitresses serving in these venues often earn more through tips, especially during busy evenings.
The nature of each establishment impacts a Waitress’s salary and tip earnings considerably.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Memphis for Waitresses
If you are interested in careers similar to being a Waitress, consider the following roles that share skills and responsibilities:
These include Server, Fine Dining Server, and Backwaiter, roles closely aligned to Waitressing with overlapping duties and earning potential.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Memphis
It is important for Waitresses in Memphis to be aware of relevant labor laws and tax regulations to ensure protection and compliance:
- Visit the Official website of the State of Tennessee for information on state-specific labor regulations, wage laws, and resources.
- For federal regulations, the U.S. Department of Labor's official site provides comprehensive details on labor standards and workplace rights.