Waitress Salary in Meridian, ID
Waitresses in Meridian, ID, in 2026, earn approximately $18.09 per hour, which translates to about $723.60 per week, $3,135.60 per month, and $37,627.20 per year.
The demand for waitresses in Meridian is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating positive job prospects and a healthy market for service staff in the area.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Meridian, ID?
The salary of a Waitress in Meridian varies based on experience, employer, and specific role responsibilities. The following table provides a breakdown by experience level:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.00 | $400.00 | $1,733.33 | $20,800.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.09 | $723.60 | $3,135.60 | $37,627.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $32.75 | $1,310.00 | $5,658.33 | $67,720.00 |
Do Waitresses in Meridian Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses typically earn significant tips in addition to their base salary. On average, a Waitress in Meridian can make an extra $10 per hour in tips, which can substantially increase their overall earnings and boost monthly and yearly income.
Waitress Salary in Meridian vs. National Average
The hourly national average wage for Waitresses is about $18.09 per hour, which equals approximately $37,627.20 per year.
Waitresses in Meridian earn wages roughly on par with the national average, reflecting a competitive salary within the local job market.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Meridian for Waitresses
Nearby areas offer varied wages for the Waitress role, with the highest-paying locations including:
- Eagle, ID: $25.74 per hour
- Nampa, ID: $20.69 per hour
These surrounding cities provide higher pay rates compared to Meridian, likely due to differences in cost of living and demand.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Meridian?
Several critical factors affect how much a Waitress earns in Meridian, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Waitresses or those with specialized customer service skills usually command higher wages and tips.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining and upscale restaurants often pay better wages and provide higher tipping opportunities than casual dining or fast-food outlets.
- Shift Timing: Evening, weekend, and holiday shifts may come with increased hourly pay or more generous tips due to busier service periods.
- Location: Working in nearby cities like Eagle or Nampa may bring a higher wage compared to Meridian.
- Additional Certifications: Servers with alcohol service certifications might qualify for positions with better pay.
How To Become a Waitress in Meridian
Becoming a Waitress in Meridian involves a few key steps to enhance employability:
- Gain Relevant Training: Programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at College of Western Idaho or the Hospitality Management Program at Boise State University offer foundational knowledge beneficial for this role.
- Obtain Certifications: Acquiring an Idaho Food Safety Certification is required for food handlers to ensure compliance with safety regulations. Additionally, the Alcohol Server Training Certification is mandatory when serving alcoholic beverages responsibly.
- Develop Customer Service Skills: Strong communication, attentiveness, and multitasking are essential abilities for a successful Waitress.
- Gain Experience: Entry-level roles, internships, or volunteer opportunities in food service can help build a resume.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Meridian
Some of the leading companies and franchises hiring Waitresses in Meridian include:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Waitresses in Meridian Work At
Waitresses in Meridian find opportunities across various types of establishments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These establishments employ many Waitresses but may offer moderate wages and tips.
- Fast Casual and Quick-Service Restaurants: These places often have higher turnover but usually provide lower wages and fewer tipping opportunities.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Venues: Expect better compensation packages, including a higher base wage and more generous tipping possibilities.
- Hotel and Resort Restaurants: Large hospitality venues may offer benefits and potentially higher wages, depending on scale and clientele.
The type of establishment significantly impacts both a Waitress’s base wage and the amount of tips earned.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Meridian for Waitresses
If you are exploring careers related to being a Waitress, consider the following roles that share similar skills and environments:
These include Server, Backwaiter, and Banquet Server, all of which involve customer interaction and service duties within hospitality settings.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Meridian
Understanding labor regulations and tax responsibilities is important for Waitresses in Meridian to safeguard their rights and comply with laws.
- Visit the Federal Department of Labor website for comprehensive information on labor laws nationwide.
- The Idaho Department of Labor website offers state-specific resources on employment laws and worker protections.