Waitress Salary in Oak Park, IL
Waitresses in Oak Park, IL, in 2025, earn approximately $22.07 per hour, which equates to about $882.80 per week, $3,825.47 per month, and $45,905.60 per year.
The demand for Waitresses in Oak Park is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive trend and expanding opportunities in the food service industry in this area.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Oak Park, IL?
The salary of a Waitress in Oak Park varies based on experience, skills, and the type of establishment. Below is an overview of typical earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.67 | $466.80 | $2,016.00 | $24,192.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $22.07 | $882.80 | $3,825.47 | $45,905.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $41.75 | $1,670.00 | $7,216.67 | $86,600.00 |
Do Waitresses in Oak Park Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses in Oak Park typically earn tips in addition to their base pay. It is common for a Waitress to make an extra $10 to $15 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and customer volume, which can significantly boost overall earnings.
Waitress Salary in Oak Park vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn an average of about $17.25 per hour, which translates to approximately $35,880 per year.
Waitresses in Oak Park earn a higher hourly rate at $22.07 per hour and an annual salary of $45,905.60, reflecting the area's cost of living and demand for hospitality talent.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Oak Park for Waitresses
Some of the highest-paying nearby areas for Waitresses include:
- Downtown Oak Park: $25.50 per hour
- South Oak Park: $23.00 per hour
Waitresses working in Downtown Oak Park may find better compensation compared to other parts of the region.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Oak Park?
Several factors can influence how much a Waitress earns in Oak Park:
- Experience and Skill Level: More seasoned Waitresses usually command higher wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants generally pay more than casual or fast-food venues.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts can yield higher earnings due to increased customer traffic and potential tips.
- Customer Service Skills: Strong communication and interpersonal skills can lead to better tips and more consistent raises.
How To Become a Waitress in Oak Park
Starting a career as a Waitress in Oak Park involves several key steps:
- Education and Training Programs: Participation in programs like the Triton College Hospitality Program or Oak Park-River Forest High School Culinary Arts Program can provide valuable foundational knowledge and skills.
- Obtain Certifications: The Illinois Food Handler Certification is required for all food service workers, ensuring understanding of safe food handling practices.
- Alcohol Service Training: The BASSET Certification is mandatory for servers to responsibly serve alcoholic beverages in Illinois.
- Gain Experience: Beginning as a host or busser can help develop customer service skills and open doors to Waitress positions.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Oak Park
Some of the prominent employers looking for Waitresses in Oak Park include:
- Cozy Corner
- Maya Del Sol
- T.G.I. Fridays
- Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
- Brookdale Senior Living
Establishments That Waitresses in Oak Park Work At
Waitresses in Oak Park typically work at a variety of establishments including:
- Casual Restaurants: These offer consistent work hours and moderate base pay with tipping opportunities.
- Fast Casual Venues: May pay lower base wages but have faster-paced environments and somewhat less tipping.
- Fine Dining: These establishments usually provide the highest tipping potential and base pay.
- Coffee Shops and Cafés: Typically smaller tips but steady clientele and flexible shifts.
The type of establishment greatly impacts a Waitress’s overall income, influencing both base salary and tip earnings.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Oak Park for Waitresses
If you're interested in hospitality roles related to Waitressing, you might consider these similar careers:
These include Server, Fine Dining Server, and Backwaiter positions, which involve similar skills and working environments.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Oak Park
Waitresses should be aware of key labor laws and tax obligations to effectively manage their employment and earnings.
- For federal labor laws and regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For Illinois-specific employment information, check the Illinois Department of Employment Security website.
- Local government resources and regulations can be found on the Official Oak Park, IL website.