Waitress Salary in Minneapolis, MN
Waitresses in Minneapolis, MN, in 2025, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The demand for Waitresses in Minneapolis is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for employment opportunities in this role over the coming years.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Minneapolis, MN?
The earnings of a Waitress in Minneapolis can vary depending on experience, skill level, and the type of establishment. Below is the breakdown of wages at different levels of experience.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,436.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Waitresses in Minneapolis Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses in Minneapolis typically earn tips in addition to their base wage. On average, a Waitress can expect to make an extra $10 per hour in tips, which significantly supplements their income and can vary widely based on the venue and customer volume.
Waitress Salary in Minneapolis vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which translates to about $30,160 annually.
Compared to the national figures, Waitresses in Minneapolis earn slightly less on an hourly basis at $13.90 per hour and around $28,912 annually. This difference may reflect local market conditions and industry factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Minneapolis for Waitresses
When considering nearby areas of Minneapolis, the hourly salaries for Waitresses are as follows:
- Downtown Minneapolis: $15.50 per hour
- Uptown: $17.60 per hour
Waitresses working in Uptown, in particular, can expect to earn higher wages than in other parts of the city, benefiting from the area's lively dining scene.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Minneapolis?
Several factors influence a Waitress's salary in Minneapolis:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Waitresses with excellent customer service skills often earn higher wages and tips.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and busy venues generally pay better wages and provide more generous tipping opportunities than casual eateries.
- Shift Timing and Hours: Working evening or weekend shifts can often come with higher tips due to increased customer traffic.
- Local Demand and Competition: Areas with higher customer volume or specialized cuisine might offer better pay.
How To Become a Waitress in Minneapolis
To pursue a career as a Waitress in Minneapolis, consider the following steps:
- Complete Food Safety Training: Acquiring certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensures you meet essential food safety standards required by employers.
- Obtain State-Required Alcohol Server Certification: The Minnesota Alcohol Server Training is mandatory for serving alcohol responsibly in many establishments.
- Enroll in Culinary Arts or Hospitality Programs: Programs like Minneapolis Community and Technical College Culinary Arts Program or Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Minneapolis offer skills helpful for advancement.
- Gain Experience: Starting in entry-level service jobs and demonstrating excellent customer interaction can build your career.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Minneapolis
Some of the notable employers hiring Waitresses in Minneapolis include:
- McDonalds
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Waitresses in Minneapolis Work At
Waitresses in Minneapolis typically find roles in various establishments such as:
- Fast Food Restaurants: Often provide steady hours but lower base wages and limited tipping opportunities.
- Casual Dining: Moderate base pay with regular tips, commonly popular employment choice.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These venues often offer higher base wages and substantial tip earnings due to clientele.
- Bars and Pubs: Also provide opportunities for tips but may require additional certifications for serving alcohol.
The type of establishment can significantly impact the total income a Waitress might earn.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Minneapolis for Waitresses
If you are considering careers related to Waitressing, some similar positions include the following:
These roles include Server, Backwaiter, and Banquet Server, all of which involve customer service and hospitality skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Minneapolis
Waitresses should be aware of applicable labor laws and tax regulations affecting their employment in Minneapolis.
- Visit the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry for state labor laws and workplace standards.
- For federal tax obligations and information, consult the Internal Revenue Service.
- The City of Minneapolis Official Website provides local government resources and employment information.