Waitress Salary in Raleigh, NC
Waitresses in Raleigh, NC, 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 demand for Waitresses in Raleigh is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive employment outlook and expanding opportunities in the local food service industry.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Raleigh, NC?
The salary of a Waitress in Raleigh varies depending on experience and employer, with a general range across different levels of expertise.
| 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 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Waitresses in Raleigh Earn Tips?
Waitresses often earn a significant portion of their income through tips. In Raleigh, they can make approximately an extra $10 per hour in tips, which greatly boosts their overall earnings and makes the position financially rewarding for many.
Waitress Salary in Raleigh vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, translating to about $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Waitresses in Raleigh earn slightly less at about $13.90 per hour and $28,912 annually. This is reflective of regional wage differences and the local cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Raleigh for Waitresses
Nearby areas where Waitresses tend to earn higher wages include:
- Downtown Raleigh: $15.50 per hour
- North Hills: $17.60 per hour
Working in these neighborhoods can offer a higher income potential, especially for those looking to maximize earnings in the Raleigh area.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Raleigh?
Several factors can affect the salary of a Waitress in Raleigh:
- Experience and Skill Level: A Waitress with more experience and polished customer service skills is likely to earn higher wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants tend to offer higher hourly wages and tips compared to casual or fast food venues.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts can sometimes yield higher earnings due to increased patronage and potential for tips.
- Location: Working in high-traffic or upscale areas such as North Hills or Downtown Raleigh can provide better earning opportunities.
- Certifications and Training: Food safety certifications and alcohol service permits can enhance employment prospects and pay scales.
How To Become a Waitress in Raleigh
Becoming a Waitress in Raleigh generally involves a few key steps to establish qualifications and improve employability:
- Gain basic education: A high school diploma is typically required.
- Complete food safety training: Obtaining a ServSafe Food Handler Certification is highly recommended to demonstrate knowledge of proper food handling and safety.
- Acquire an alcohol service permit: The North Carolina Alcohol Beverage Control Commission Permit is required for Waitresses serving alcoholic beverages.
- Consider culinary training: Programs such as the Wake Technical Community College Culinary Arts Program or the Johnson & Wales University Charlotte Campus provide comprehensive culinary knowledge that can improve service skills.
- Develop customer service skills: Experience in hospitality roles or customer-facing positions helps build essential qualities for successful Waitresses.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Raleigh
Some of the top employers actively hiring Waitresses in Raleigh include:
- McDonalds
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Waitresses in Raleigh Work At
Waitresses in Raleigh typically find work in a variety of settings, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Offering moderate wages and steady tip opportunities.
- Fast Casual Eateries: Generally faster-paced with lower base pay but tips can vary.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Often the highest wages and tip potential.
- Bars and Pubs: Tips can be substantial, especially during busy periods.
- Family Restaurants and Diners: Stable roles, with moderate tip income.
The establishment type directly affects compensation due to differences in customer volume, service expectations, and tipping culture.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Raleigh for Waitresses
Here are some careers closely related to the Waitress role that could interest you:
These include Backwaiter, Fine Dining Server, and Server positions, offering similar job responsibilities and varying salary scales.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Raleigh
Waitresses in Raleigh should be informed about their rights and responsibilities related to labor laws and taxation. Useful resources include:
- Federal labor laws can be explored on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The North Carolina Department of Labor provides state-specific labor regulations and worker protections.
- Local information and resources for employees and businesses are available at the City of Raleigh's official website.