Waitress Salary in Surprise, AZ
Waitresses in Surprise, AZ, in 2025, earn approximately $19.90 per hour, which translates to about $796.00 per week, $3,449.33 per month, and $41,392.00 per year.
The job demand for Waitresses in Surprise is growing moderately at about 5% per year, indicating an encouraging outlook for those interested in this profession in the local area.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Surprise, AZ?
The salary of a Waitress in Surprise can vary depending on experience and employer, but the following table offers a breakdown across different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.70 | $588.00 | $2,541.33 | $30,496.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.90 | $796.00 | $3,449.33 | $41,392.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $38.88 | $1,555.20 | $6,721.60 | $80,659.20 |
Do Waitresses in Surprise Earn Tips?
Waitresses typically earn tips as a significant part of their income. In Surprise, AZ, a Waitress can expect to earn an extra $10 per hour in tips on average, enhancing their overall earnings substantially beyond the base wage.
Waitress Salary in Surprise vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn about $17.60 per hour, or approximately $36,608 annually.
Compared to the national average, Waitresses in Surprise enjoy a higher hourly rate of $19.90 and an annual salary of $41,392.
This difference may be due to cost of living adjustments or the local hospitality market's strength.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Surprise for Waitresses
Looking at nearby locations, the highest wages for Waitresses are as follows:
- Area 1: $21.38 per hour
- Area 2: $20.69 per hour
Waitresses in these surrounding areas can expect to earn slightly more compared to Surprise, highlighting options for those willing to commute.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Surprise?
A Waitress’s salary in Surprise can be influenced by several factors:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Waitresses or those with excellent customer service skills often command higher wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants tend to pay more and offer better tips than fast food or casual dining.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts may provide higher tip opportunities and sometimes premium pay rates.
- Location: Waitresses working in high-traffic or upscale areas typically earn more than those in less busy environments.
- Certifications and Training: Additional training and certifications can make a Waitress more appealing to employers, potentially increasing pay.
How To Become a Waitress in Surprise, AZ
To become a successful Waitress in Surprise, you can consider the following steps:
- Complete Relevant Training: Enroll in programs like the West-MEC Culinary Arts Program or the Estrella Mountain Community College Hospitality Program to gain practical hospitality skills.
- Acquire Necessary Certifications: Obtain a Food Handler's Card and Alcohol Server Certification which are often required by employers for safety and compliance.
- Gain Experience: Many Waitress positions require some previous customer service or hospitality experience, which you can acquire through internships or entry-level roles.
- Develop Soft Skills: Communication, patience, and multitasking are vital for excelling as a Waitress.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Surprise
Several well-known restaurant chains frequently hire Waitresses in the Surprise area, including:
- Olive Garden
- Red Lobster
- Texas Roadhouse
Establishments That Waitresses in Surprise Work At
Waitresses in Surprise typically work in various types of establishments:
- Casual Dining: Restaurants and cafes with moderately priced menus offer good opportunities for Waitresses, often with steady customer flow.
- Fast Casual: These places usually pay a bit less in base wages but may offer fast-paced environments ideal for gaining experience.
- Fine Dining: Upscale restaurants tend to pay higher wages and generate higher tips, making them attractive workplaces.
- Buffets and Family Restaurants: These establishments might provide consistent schedules but lower tip potentials.
The type of establishment can significantly impact earnings, especially through tip income differences.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Surprise for Waitresses
If you are considering options related to the Waitress career path, here are a few similar roles worth exploring:
These include Backwaiter, Server, and Fine Dining Server positions, which share similar customer service and hospitality skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Surprise
If you work as a Waitress in Surprise, AZ, it is important to understand the local labor laws and tax requirements.
- Helpful resources on health regulations, labor rights, and wage laws can be found at the Arizona Department of Health Services.
- Employment services, unemployment benefits, and taxation information is available at the Arizona Department of Economic Security.