Waitress Salary in St. Louis, MO
Waitresses in St. Louis, MO, in 2025, earn approximately $20.10 per hour, which translates to about $804.00 per week, $3,484.00 per month, and $41,808.00 per year.
The demand for Waitresses in St. Louis is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for employment opportunities in the local hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in St. Louis, MO?
The salary of a Waitress in St. Louis varies based on experience, skills, and location within the city. Here's a breakdown of earnings at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.75 | $550.00 | $2,383.33 | $28,600.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.10 | $804.00 | $3,484.00 | $41,808.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $32.96 | $1,318.40 | $5,705.33 | $68,476.80 |
Do Waitresses in St. Louis Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses in St. Louis generally earn tips that can add significantly to their income. On average, a Waitress can make an extra $10 to $15 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and clientele. This supplemental income can substantially increase overall earnings.
Waitress Salary in St. Louis vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn an average of around $17.30 per hour, or about $35,984 per year. Compared to the national average, Waitresses in St. Louis earn more, at approximately $20.10 per hour and $41,808 annually.
This difference may reflect local cost of living, stronger demand, or competitive hospitality markets in St. Louis.
Highest-Paying Areas Near St. Louis for Waitresses
Within the St. Louis area, the following neighborhoods offer higher pay rates for Waitresses:
- Downtown: $21.50 per hour
- Central West End: $22.00 per hour
Working in these bustling, upscale parts of the city can provide Waitresses with better earning potential and possibly higher tips.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in St. Louis?
Several key factors impact a Waitress’s salary in St. Louis.
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Waitresses with excellent customer service skills tend to earn higher wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Higher-end restaurants and venues often offer better base pay and more generous tips compared to casual dining or fast food outlets.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts might command higher pay or increased tips due to busier service periods.
- Location Within the City: Working in premium neighborhoods like Downtown or Central West End can increase overall earnings.
- Certification and Training: Additional training in food safety or alcohol service can enhance employability and wages.
How To Become a Waitress in St. Louis
Becoming a Waitress in St. Louis generally requires dedication to customer service and knowledge of food service operations. Some steps to consider include:
- Complete Culinary or Hospitality Training: Programs such as the St. Louis Community College Culinary Arts Program or L'École Culinaire provide valuable skills for a career in food service.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensure compliance with health standards, which are often mandatory.
- Consider Alcohol Service Training: TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification helps with responsible alcohol service, important for Waitresses in establishments serving alcohol.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level positions or internships help develop essential service skills and can lead to better job opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in St. Louis
Some notable employers actively hiring Waitresses in St. Louis include:
- The Blue Duck
- Lester's Sports Bar and Grill
- Alamo Drafthouse Cinema
- Brio Italian Grille Frontenac
- Hotel Saint Louis
Establishments That Waitresses in St. Louis Work At
Waitresses in St. Louis typically work in a variety of establishments that can influence their overall income.
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These provide steady work with moderate wages and tips.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Often offer higher base pay and better tipping potential due to upscale clientele.
- Bars and Nightclubs: Such venues may provide higher tips but require proficiency in alcohol service.
- Fast Casual or Quick Service: Lower base pay and few tips but can offer flexible hours for entry-level workers.
The type and prestige of these establishments directly influence the overall salary and tip income.
Related Hospitality Jobs in St. Louis for Waitresses
If you're interested in roles related to Waitressing, consider these similar positions that often share skills and responsibilities.
The jobs above include Server, Backwaiter, and Banquet Server — all roles that complement and align with the skills of a Waitress.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in St. Louis
Waitresses should be informed about labor laws and tax regulations that affect their employment and earnings.
- For detailed Missouri state labor laws and regulations, visit the Missouri Department of Labor website.
- Federal labor guidelines are accessible via the U.S. Department of Labor website.