Waitress Salary in Portland, OR
Waitresses in Portland, OR, in 2025, earn approximately $26.00 per hour, which translates to about $1,040.00 per week, $4,506.67 per month, and $54,080.00 per year.
The demand for Waitresses in Portland is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy and expanding hospitality industry in the city with plenty of opportunities for those entering this role.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Portland, OR?
The salary of a Waitress in Portland can vary depending on experience and place of employment, but here is an overview by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $20.00 | $800.00 | $3,466.67 | $41,600.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $26.00 | $1,040.00 | $4,506.67 | $54,080.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $33.00 | $1,320.00 | $5,720.00 | $68,640.00 |
Do Waitresses in Portland Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses in Portland typically earn tips that can amount to an extra $10 per hour in addition to their base pay. These tips can significantly boost overall income, especially during busy shifts.
Waitress Salary in Portland vs. National Average
The national average salary for Waitresses is around $25.50 per hour and about $53,040 per year.
Compared to the national average, Waitresses in Portland earn slightly more on average, with an hourly wage of $26.00 and an annual salary of $54,080.00.
This reflects both the cost of living in Portland and the competitive hospitality market.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Portland for Waitresses
Nearby areas offer slightly higher pay for Waitress roles:
- Pearl District: $28.00 per hour
- Northwest Portland: $27.00 per hour
Waitresses working in the Pearl District may find the highest wages compared to other nearby neighborhoods, likely due to the upscale restaurants and clientele in the area.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Portland?
Several factors influence how much a Waitress can earn in Portland:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Waitresses tend to command higher wages and earn greater tips.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining or upscale restaurants generally pay more than casual or fast-food venues.
- Customer Service and Communication Skills: Exceptional interpersonal skills can increase tipping potential and job advancement.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts often offer more tips and sometimes higher base pay.
- Geographic Location: Working in neighborhoods with higher living costs or affluent diners typically results in higher earnings.
How To Become a Waitress in Portland
Becoming a Waitress in Portland involves a combination of training, certification, and practical experience:
- Formal Training: Programs like those offered by the Oregon Culinary Institute or Portland Community College Hospitality Management Program provide valuable skills in customer service and restaurant operations.
- Food Safety Certifications: Acquiring the Oregon Food Handler's Card is mandatory and ensures knowledge of proper food safety practices.
- Alcohol Service Permits: If serving alcohol, obtaining the OLCC Alcohol Service Permit is required to comply with state regulations.
- Gain Experience: Many start with entry-level positions in casual dining to develop essential skills before moving to higher-paying venues.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Portland
The following employers often seek skilled Waitresses in Portland:
- McMenamins
- The Nines Hotel
- Andina Restaurant
- Departure Restaurant + Lounge
- Jake's Famous Crawfish
Establishments That Waitresses in Portland Work At
Waitresses in Portland find employment across various types of establishments:
- Casual Dining: Offers moderate wages and opportunities to improve service skills.
- Fast Casual: Typically lower pay but higher customer turnover which can mean consistent tips.
- Fine Dining: Higher wages and substantial tips due to upscale clientele and premium service standards.
- Hotels and Resorts: Competitive salaries and benefits, often with larger tips during events.
Each establishment type can influence salary potential through differing base pay and tipping opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Portland for Waitresses
If you’re interested in roles similar to Waitress, you might consider these related positions:
These include Server, Fine Dining Server, and Backwaiter positions, all of which involve working closely with customers and can offer varied pay and tipping potential.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Portland
Waitresses should ensure compliance with state and federal labor laws and understand their tax obligations.
- Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI) oversees labor laws and employment standards in the state. For details visit Oregon BOLI.
- The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is responsible for federal tax collection and enforcement—more info available at IRS.
- Oregon Department of Revenue manages state tax collection and regulations. Check Oregon Department of Revenue for guidance.