Waitress Salary in Portland, ME
Waitresses in Portland, ME, in 2025, earn approximately $21.84 per hour, which translates to about $873.60 per week, $3,785.60 per month, and $45,427.20 per year.
The demand for Waitresses in Portland is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the local hospitality sector.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Portland, ME?
The salary of a Waitress in Portland varies based on experience and the particular employer. Here is a general breakdown of earnings based on experience levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.65 | $586.00 | $2,534.33 | $30,472.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.13 | $805.20 | $3,457.80 | $41,870.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $35.34 | $1,413.60 | $6,110.40 | $73,363.20 |
Do Waitresses in Portland Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses in Portland often earn a significant portion of their income through tips. On average, a Waitress can earn an extra $10 per hour in tips, which boosts overall earnings and rewards excellent customer service.
Waitress Salary in Portland vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn an average of about $20.13 per hour, which amounts to roughly $41,870 per year.
In Portland, ME, Waitresses earn somewhat higher than the national average, at approximately $21.84 per hour and $45,427 annually. This premium can be attributed to regional demand and local wage standards.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Portland for Waitresses
Nearby areas offer slightly different pay rates for Waitresses:
- Falmouth: $25.28 per hour
- Kennebunk: $24.30 per hour
These areas tend to pay more than Portland itself, providing options for Waitresses willing to commute or relocate.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Portland?
Multiple factors influence how much a Waitress can earn in Portland, including:
- Experience and Seniority: More experienced Waitresses typically earn higher base wages and attract more tips.
- Skills and Customer Service Ability: Exceptional communication and customer care can lead to more tips and better employment opportunities.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants usually pay more and provide greater tip opportunities compared to casual or fast-food venues.
- Shift Hours and Days: Working evenings, weekends, or holidays can increase earnings due to shift differentials and busier service periods.
- Local Economic Conditions: Portland's vibrant tourism and dining scene supports competitive wages in the hospitality industry.
How To Become a Waitress in Portland
Becoming a Waitress in Portland involves several key steps:
- Gain Basic Food Service Training: Enroll in programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Southern Maine Community College to develop foundational skills.
- Consider Hospitality Management Education: The Hospitality Management Program at University of Southern Maine offers valuable knowledge for career advancement.
- Obtain Certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler and TIPS Training enhance employability by ensuring knowledge of food safety and responsible alcohol service.
- Acquire Practical Experience: Entry-level positions in casual dining or fast casual establishments can provide hands-on experience.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Portland
Some of the top establishments employing Waitresses in Portland include:
- Fore Street Restaurant
- Eventide Oyster Co.
- The Honey Paw
- Central Provisions
- Street & Co.
Establishments That Waitresses in Portland Work At
Waitresses in Portland find jobs in various types of food service establishments, including:
- Casual Dining: These venues offer steady employment and moderate wages plus tips.
- Fast Casual: Typically faster-paced with slightly lower wages but still providing tipping opportunities.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Restaurants: Often provide the highest salaries and tipping potential due to affluent clientele and superior service standards.
- Bars and Cafés: May include alcohol service, leading to additional tip income and requiring specific certifications.
The type of establishment has a strong impact on overall salary as well as the consistency and size of tips earned by Waitresses.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Portland for Waitresses
If you are interested in roles similar to a Waitress, consider these related careers:
These include Bartender, Cashier, and Backwaiter, all roles within the hospitality industry with overlapping skills and responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Portland
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is crucial for Waitresses to ensure fair employment and comply with regulations.
- Visit the official Maine government website for comprehensive information on state labor laws, wage standards, and worker rights.
- For federal labor laws and guidelines, consult the U.S. Department of Labor website, which provides resources on wages, employment practices, and workplace safety.