Waitress Salary in Palm Coast, FL
Waitresses in Palm Coast, FL, in 2025, earn approximately $15.00 per hour, which translates to about $600.00 per week, $2,600.00 per month, and $31,200.00 per year.
The job demand for Waitresses in Palm Coast is growing steadily at about 3% per year, indicating a positive outlook for employment opportunities in this role.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Palm Coast, FL?
The salary of a Waitress in Palm Coast varies depending on experience and the specific employer. Below is a general overview of earnings across various experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $8.13 | $325.20 | $1,402.00 | $16,862.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $8.93 | $357.20 | $1,536.53 | $18,574.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $12.91 | $516.40 | $2,228.73 | $26,852.80 |
Do Waitresses in Palm Coast Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses in Palm Coast typically earn tips in addition to their base pay. They can make an estimated an extra $10 per hour in tips, which significantly boosts their total earnings, depending on the establishment and customer volume.
Waitress Salary in Palm Coast vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn an average of around $17.65 per hour, amounting to about $36,712 per year.
Compared to the national average, Waitresses in Palm Coast earn slightly less, with an average hourly wage of $15.00 and an annual salary of $31,200. This difference can be influenced by the local cost of living and market factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Palm Coast for Waitresses
Nearby areas to Palm Coast offer slightly different pay scales for Waitresses:
- Palm Harbor: $15.50 per hour
- Pine Lakes: $17.60 per hour
Waitresses seeking higher pay might consider opportunities in Pine Lakes or Palm Harbor, where the hourly wages exceed those in Palm Coast.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Palm Coast?
Several factors can influence the salary of a Waitress in Palm Coast:
- Experience Level: Experienced Waitresses often earn higher wages and better tips.
- Skills and Customer Service: Exceptional communication and multitasking skills can boost earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: High-end or busy restaurants typically pay more or generate higher tips.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts may come with higher pay rates.
- Local Economy and Demand: Economic conditions and demand for hospitality services affect salaries.
How To Become a Waitress in Palm Coast
Starting a career as a Waitress in Palm Coast involves several key steps:
- Gain Basic Education: A high school diploma or GED is usually required.
- Complete Hospitality Programs: Consider programs such as Daytona State College Culinary Management Program or Flagler Technical Institute Hospitality Program to build relevant skills.
- Obtain Certifications: Certifications like Florida Food Handler Certification and ServSafe Alcohol Certification can improve job prospects.
- Develop Customer Service Skills: Strong interpersonal skills are crucial for success in this role.
- Gain Experience: Start in entry-level food service positions to build experience and learn the ropes.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Palm Coast
Major employers frequently hiring Waitresses in Palm Coast include:
- Outback Steakhouse
- Olive Garden
- Red Lobster
- Applebee's
- Chili's
Establishments That Waitresses in Palm Coast Work At
Waitresses in Palm Coast often work in various establishment types:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often provide steady tips and wages.
- Fast Casual Chains: May offer lower base pay but faster-paced work.
- Fine Dining: Typically higher tips and pay reflecting the upscale environment.
- Buffets and Family-Style Restaurants: Salaries may be moderate, with tips depending on service style.
The type of establishment greatly affects the earning potential, with fine dining venues generally offering the highest overall compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Palm Coast for Waitresses
If interested in similar careers, these roles share many common skills and work environments:
This list includes Server, Fine Dining Server, and Backwaiter positions, which have related responsibilities and career paths.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Palm Coast
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is essential for Waitresses in Palm Coast.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for information on workplace rights and protections.
- The State of Florida's official website provides resources on state labor laws and employment guidance.
- For local government information in Palm Coast, the Flagler County's official website is a valuable resource.