Waitress Salary in Rockford, IL
Waitresses in Rockford, IL, 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 demand for Waitresses in Rockford is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting positive job prospects for those interested in this role within the local hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Rockford, IL?
The salary of a Waitress in Rockford varies depending on experience and employer, with entry-level positions earning less, and those with more experience earning more.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $9.00 | $360.00 | $1,560.00 | $18,720.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $11.00 | $440.00 | $1,906.67 | $22,880.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $12.00 | $480.00 | $2,080.00 | $24,960.00 |
Do Waitresses in Rockford Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses in Rockford typically earn tips which can significantly supplement their income. They can often make an extra $5 to $15 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and shift.
Waitress Salary in Rockford vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn an average of about $17.65 per hour and approximately $36,712 per year.
Compared to the national average, Waitresses in Rockford earn slightly less, with an average hourly wage of $15.00 and an annual salary of $31,200.00.
This difference may be influenced by the cost of living and demand in the Rockford area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Rockford for Waitresses
Nearby areas offer varying pay for Waitresses:
- Downtown: $12.00 per hour
- East Rockford: $11.50 per hour
Waitresses working in Downtown Rockford can expect to earn the highest hourly pay in the vicinity.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Rockford?
Several factors can impact a Waitress’s earning potential in Rockford:
- Experience and Customer Service Skills: More experienced Waitresses with strong interpersonal skills tend to attract better tips and higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or fine dining establishments usually pay more and offer higher tips compared to fast-food or casual diners.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts may offer higher tips or shift differentials.
- Certifications: Having certifications related to responsible alcohol service can enhance job prospects and salary.
- Local Economy and Cost of Living: Economic factors influence employer wage standards.
How To Become a Waitress in Rockford
To pursue a career as a Waitress in Rockford, consider the following:
- Training Programs: Programs like the Rock Valley College Culinary Arts Program provide comprehensive training that can prepare candidates for roles in food service.
- Hospitality Education: Rockford Career College offers a Hospitality Management Program that covers essential aspects of restaurant service and management.
- Certifications: Obtaining the Illinois Food Handler Certification is mandatory for food service employees. Also, the TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification is valuable for responsible alcohol service.
- Gain Experience: Entry-level opportunities at local restaurants can build experience in customer service and food handling.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Rockford
Some of the prominent employers in Rockford seeking trained Waitresses include:
- Texas Roadhouse
- Olive Garden
- Red Lobster
Establishments That Waitresses in Rockford Work At
Waitresses in Rockford typically work in a variety of settings:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often provide steady shifts and base wages with opportunities for tips.
- Fast Casual and Chain Restaurants: Generally pay hourly wages that may be lower than fine dining but offer more consistent hours.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Tend to offer higher wages and tips but may require more experience and skills.
- Bars and Nightclubs: Can provide substantial tip income, especially during peak hours.
The type of establishment significantly influences the total earnings of a Waitress in Rockford.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Rockford for Waitresses
If you are interested in roles similar to Waitress, consider these related careers:
These include Server, Fine Dining Server, and Backwaiter positions, all of which involve elements of food service and customer interaction.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Rockford
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is important for Waitresses in Rockford.
- Visit the federal website for labor laws and regulations for comprehensive information on workplace rights.
- For state-specific information, explore the Illinois Department of Employment Security website, which covers state labor laws and employment details.