Waitress Salary in Mobile, AL
Waitresses in Mobile, AL, 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 job market for Waitresses in Mobile is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive demand trend in the hospitality and food service sectors in the area.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Mobile, AL?
The salary of a Waitress in Mobile varies depending on experience and employer, but the following table shows typical earnings by experience level.
| 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 | $2,947.33 | $35,360.00 |
Do Waitresses in Mobile Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses in Mobile typically earn tips in addition to their base pay. They can make an extra approximately $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and shift, which can substantially boost their overall income.
Waitress Salary in Mobile vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which comes to about $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Waitresses in Mobile earn slightly less at $13.90 per hour and $28,912 annually. This reflects local economic conditions and cost of living differences.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Mobile for Waitresses
Nearby areas offer varied wages for Waitresses:
- Downtown Mobile: $15.50 per hour
- Midtown Mobile: $17.60 per hour
Waitresses working in Midtown Mobile tend to earn the highest wages in the region, which may be due to higher demand and upscale dining options.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Mobile?
Experience and Seniority: More experienced Waitresses typically command better wages and secure shifts with higher tips.
Skills: Strong customer service, multitasking, and upselling abilities contribute to higher earnings.
Type of Establishment: Upscale and fine dining venues usually offer higher base pay and tip opportunities than casual or fast food restaurants.
Shift Timing: Evening shifts, weekends, and holidays may provide higher tips or differential pay.
Location: Working in high-traffic or affluent areas of Mobile generally results in increased earnings.
How To Become a Waitress in Mobile
Starting a career as a Waitress in Mobile can be straightforward, but certain steps and credentials enhance employment opportunities and earning potential.
Enroll in Relevant Programs: The Culinary Arts Program at Bishop State Community College offers foundational food service knowledge beneficial for Waitresses.
Pursue Hospitality Education: The Hospitality Management Program at the University of South Alabama imparts skills related to restaurant operations and customer interaction.
Obtain Food Safety and Alcohol Service Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and the Alabama Responsible Vendor Program ensure compliance with health and alcohol service regulations and are often required by employers.
Gain On-the-Job Experience: Many Waitresses start in entry-level roles and build skills to advance within the field.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Mobile
Some of the prominent companies and restaurants hiring Waitresses in Mobile include:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Waitresses in Mobile Work At
Waitresses in Mobile commonly work across several types of establishments such as:
- Fast Food Restaurants: Often involve high volume and lower base pay but provide quick job entry.
- Casual Dining: Offers moderate base salary with regular tips and opportunities for wage growth through experience.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Restaurants: Provide higher base pay and the potential for significant tips, reflecting the quality of service expected.
- Bars and Nightclubs: Tips can be substantial here, especially during busy hours and events.
The type of establishment greatly affects overall earnings, with fine dining generally providing the highest compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Mobile for Waitresses
There are several roles closely related to Waitressing that might interest those looking to expand or shift their careers within hospitality.
These include Server, Fine Dining Server, and Backwaiter positions, which involve customer-facing roles with varied responsibilities and salary levels.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Mobile
Waitresses should stay informed about labor laws and tax responsibilities relevant to their work.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for comprehensive information.
- The State of Alabama's official labor department website offers state-specific rules and resources.
- For local ordinances and community support, check the Official website for the City of Mobile.