Waitress Salary in Skokie, IL
Waitresses in Skokie, IL, in 2025, earn approximately $17.29 per hour, which translates to about $691.60 per week, $2,996.93 per month, and $35,963.20 per year.
The job outlook for waitresses in Skokie is growing steadily at about 5% per year, showing positive demand for hospitality services and vibrant dining options available in the area.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Skokie, IL?
The salary of a Waitress in Skokie varies by experience, skills, and employer, but here is a general overview based on different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.29 | $691.60 | $2,996.93 | $35,963.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $32.06 | $1,282.40 | $5,541.73 | $66,496.80 |
Do Waitresses in Skokie Earn Tips?
Waitresses typically earn tips in addition to their base pay, which can significantly supplement their income. On average, a Waitress in Skokie may earn an extra $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and shifts worked.
Waitress Salary in Skokie vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn an average hourly wage of about $17.29 per hour, translating to an annual salary around $35,963.20.
Comparing this with Skokie, Waitresses earn roughly the same hourly wage and annual salary, indicating that Skokie offers a competitive compensation package relative to the national average.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Skokie for Waitresses
Nearby areas show similar pay scales for Waitresses:
- Downtown Skokie: $17.29 per hour
- Devonshire: $17.29 per hour
Both Downtown Skokie and Devonshire offer competitive wages, making them attractive options for Waitresses seeking employment close to Skokie.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Skokie?
Several factors play a role in determining the salary of a Waitress in Skokie:
- Experience and Skills: More experienced Waitresses with excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to handle high-volume shifts often earn higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants typically pay better wages and higher tips compared to fast casual or casual dining spots.
- Shift Timing: Evening, weekend, or holiday shifts might offer higher compensation or increased tipping opportunities.
- Location: Establishments in busier or more affluent neighborhoods often provide better pay.
How To Become a Waitress in Skokie
To start a career as a Waitress in Skokie, consider the following steps:
- Complete Relevant Training: Programs such as the Oakton Community College Culinary Arts Program provide foundational knowledge and skills vital for working in food service.
- Obtain Food Handler Certifications: The Illinois Food Handler Certification is mandatory for all food service employees, ensuring safe and hygienic handling of food
- Consider Advanced Certifications: Optional programs like the nationally recognized ServSafe Certification can enhance your qualifications and potential pay.
- Gain Work Experience: Entry level positions in local restaurants or cafes help gather practical experience and build customer service skills.
- Develop Excellent Customer Service Skills: Being friendly, attentive, and efficient will help build repeat clientele and increase tipping potential.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Skokie
Several well-known restaurant chains are regularly hiring skilled Waitresses in Skokie, including:
- Outback Steakhouse
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Maggiano's Little Italy
Establishments That Waitresses in Skokie Work At
Waitresses in Skokie typically find work across a variety of restaurant types, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These venues provide steady hours but often a moderate wage, with tipping playing a significant part in overall income.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: While pay may be competitive, tipping might be less common in these establishments compared to full-service dining.
- Fine Dining or Upscale Restaurants: These can offer higher base wages and greater tipping potential due to the clientele and service expectations.
The type and prestige of the establishment significantly influence a Waitress’s earning potential, with upscale venues often offering the best financial rewards.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Skokie for Waitresses
If you are considering alternative or related roles within hospitality, here are some careers similar to Waitress:
Similar careers include Server, Backwaiter, and Fine Dining Server roles, all offering customer-facing positions in hospitality with varying levels of responsibility and salary.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Skokie
Understanding local and federal labor laws and taxes is essential for Waitresses working in Skokie.
- For federal labor laws and regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The Illinois Department of Employment Security offers information on state-specific employment laws and unemployment benefits.
- Additional local government resources and regulations can be found on the Village of Skokie official website.