Waitress Salary in Salt Lake City, UT
Waitresses in Salt Lake City, UT, in 2025, earn approximately $17.93 per hour, which translates to about $717.20 per week, $3,107.87 per month, and $37,294.40 per year.
The demand for Waitresses in Salt Lake City is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for job availability and career opportunities in this role.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Salt Lake City, UT?
The salary of a Waitress in Salt Lake City varies based on experience, employer, and other factors. Here's an overview of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.07 | $402.80 | $1,746.93 | $20,934.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.93 | $717.20 | $3,107.87 | $37,294.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $31.92 | $1,276.80 | $5,541.60 | $66,393.60 |
Do Waitresses in Salt Lake City Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses in Salt Lake City typically earn tips, which can significantly increase their overall earnings. On average, a waitress might earn an extra $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and customer volume.
Waitress Salary in Salt Lake City vs. National Average
Nationally, the average hourly wage for Waitresses is about $17.93, equating to roughly $37,294.40 annually. Interestingly, Salt Lake City matches these figures, indicating that waitresses in this area earn salaries in line with the national average.
Factors such as the local cost of living and demand for hospitality services contribute to this alignment.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Salt Lake City for Waitresses
Waitresses working near Salt Lake City may find higher wages in certain nearby areas:
- South Jordan: $22.88 per hour
- Park City: $19.85 per hour
South Jordan offers significantly higher hourly pay compared to Salt Lake City, making it an attractive location for waitresses seeking increased earnings.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Salt Lake City?
Several key factors influence the salary of a Waitress in Salt Lake City:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Waitresses often command higher wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and fine dining establishments generally offer higher wages and better tipping opportunities than casual dining or fast food outlets.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Working during peak hours or holidays can increase overall earnings due to higher customer traffic and tip potential.
- Customer Service Skills: Exceptional interpersonal and hospitality skills can lead to better tips and more job opportunities.
- Location: Certain neighborhoods or cities have higher wage standards reflecting local cost of living and demand.
How To Become a Waitress in Salt Lake City
Entering the Waitressing profession in Salt Lake City can be achieved by following several important steps:
- Complete Basic Food Handling Training: It is essential to obtain the Utah Food Handler Permit, which certifies knowledge of safe food practices required to work in food service.
- Consider Certification Programs: Earning the nationally recognized ServSafe Certification can improve job prospects and demonstrate responsibility in food safety and sanitation.
- Enroll in Culinary or Hospitality Training: Programs like the Salt Lake Community College Culinary Arts Program or Utah Valley University Culinary Arts Institute provide foundational knowledge and hands-on experience useful for career growth.
- Gain On-the-Job Experience: Starting in entry-level restaurant roles builds valuable skills essential to becoming a proficient Waitress.
- Develop Strong Customer Service Skills: Cultivating these helps in maximizing tips and gaining positive employer reviews.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Salt Lake City
Several well-known companies in Salt Lake City are actively hiring Waitresses, including:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Waitresses in Salt Lake City Work At
Waitresses in Salt Lake City are commonly employed in a variety of food service establishments, such as casual dining restaurants, fast casual eateries, and fine dining venues.
The type of establishment significantly affects salary and earnings. For instance, fine dining establishments generally offer higher base pay and greater tip potential due to higher-price menus and clientele expectations.
Conversely, fast casual and casual dining tend to have lower wages but offer more consistent work shifts.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Salt Lake City for Waitresses
If you are considering similar career paths in hospitality, there are several options close to the role of Waitress:
These include Server, Fine Dining Server, and Backwaiter, roles that share similar duties and work environments with some variations in responsibilities and pay.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Salt Lake City
Waitresses should be knowledgeable about state and federal labor laws as well as tax requirements applicable to their employment.
- Check the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for nationwide guidelines on minimum wage, overtime, and worker rights.
- The State of Utah's Department of Workforce Services website provides specific Utah labor laws and workforce resources.
- Local regulations and employment support can be accessed via the Official website of Salt Lake City government.