Waitress Salary in Rochester, MN
Waitresses in Rochester, MN, in 2026, earn approximately $11.70 per hour, which translates to about $468.00 per week, $2,028.00 per month, and $24,336.00 per year.
The job market for Waitresses in Rochester is showing positive signs with a 5% growth rate per year. This indicates a growing demand for hospitality service roles in the area.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Rochester, MN?
The salary of a Waitress in Rochester varies depending on experience and workplace, with entry-level positions earning less and experienced workers earning more.
| 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) | $11.70 | $468.00 | $2,028.00 | $24,336.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.02 | $760.80 | $3,288.80 | $39,561.60 |
Do Waitresses in Rochester Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses typically earn tips, which can significantly supplement their income. In Rochester, a Waitress can earn an additional approximately $10 per hour in tips, which can considerably enhance overall earnings, especially in busy or higher-end establishments.
Waitress Salary in Rochester 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 Rochester, MN earn somewhat less, at about $11.70 per hour and $24,336 annually. This difference can be influenced by regional cost of living and local industry factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Rochester for Waitresses
Nearby areas offer varying pay rates for Waitresses:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- West End: $17.60 per hour
Waitresses working in West End can expect some of the highest wages near Rochester, benefiting from local demand and upscale venues.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Rochester?
Several key factors influence the salary of a Waitress in Rochester:
- Experience Level: More experienced Waitresses tend to earn higher wages and attract better tip averages due to refined customer service skills.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, fine dining, and hotels generally offer better pay compared to casual or fast food restaurants.
- Location: Working in more affluent or busy districts of Rochester and its surrounding neighborhoods can increase earning potential.
- Shift Hours: Evenings and weekends often offer opportunities for higher tips and sometimes premium wages.
How To Become a Waitress in Rochester
Starting a career as a Waitress in Rochester can be facilitated with the following steps:
- Gain Basic Education: A high school diploma is typically sufficient; additional customer service training can be helpful.
- Complete Training Programs: Institutions like Rochester Community and Technical College Culinary Arts Program and Minnesota State College Southeast Hospitality and Tourism Program offer courses relevant to hospitality and service skills.
- Obtain Certifications: Certifications such as Minnesota Food Manager Certification and Alcohol Server Training are important especially when handling food safety and alcoholic beverages.
- Develop Communication Skills: Excellent interpersonal skills are vital for a Waitress to interact effectively with customers and colleagues.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Rochester
Several well-known employers in Rochester frequently hire Waitresses, including:
- Texas Roadhouse
- The Tap House West End
- Perkins
- Ruth's Chris Steak House
- McDonald's
Establishments That Waitresses in Rochester Work At
Waitresses in Rochester typically find employment at various types of establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Offers a steady customer flow; earnings may be moderate but tips can be consistent.
- Fast Casual and Chain Restaurants: Generally have lower hourly wages but high customer turnover.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Restaurants: These venues typically pay higher base wages and provide significantly larger tips.
- Hotels and Event Venues: Work at banquet halls or hotels can offer variable wages depending on the scale and service level.
The type of establishment greatly influences both the hourly pay and tip potential for Waitresses.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Rochester for Waitresses
If considering other related roles within hospitality, there are several options that share similar skills and salary ranges.
These include roles such as Server, Backwaiter, and Fine Dining Server, which involve customer service and hospitality skill sets.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Rochester
Waitresses in Rochester should familiarize themselves with local labor laws and tax regulations to ensure fair treatment and proper financial management.
- Relevant labor laws can be found on the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry - State labor laws and regulations website.
- For tax information, the Minnesota Department of Revenue - State tax information site provides details.
- Local government resources are available through the City of Rochester Official Website.