Waitress Salary in Tacoma, WA
Waitresses in Tacoma, WA, in 2025, earn approximately $12.00 per hour, which translates to about $480.00 per week, $2,080.00 per month, and $24,960.00 per year.
The demand for Waitresses in Tacoma is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive trend and expanding opportunities for those seeking employment in the food service industry.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Tacoma, WA?
The salary of a Waitress in Tacoma can vary depending on experience and specific employer, but here is a general overview of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.00 | $400.00 | $1,733.33 | $20,800.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $12.00 | $480.00 | $2,080.00 | $24,960.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $13.00 | $520.00 | $2,246.67 | $26,960.00 |
Do Waitresses in Tacoma Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses in Tacoma typically earn tips. On average, they can make an extra $10 per hour in tips, which significantly supplements their base salary and can vary depending on the establishment and clientele.
Waitress Salary in Tacoma vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn an average of around $12.00 per hour, translating to about $24,960.00 per year.
When compared to the national average, Waitresses in Tacoma earn roughly the same hourly rate and annual salary, reflecting the area's competitive compensation for this role.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Tacoma for Waitresses
When looking at nearby areas, waitress salaries vary slightly:
- Downtown Tacoma: $13.50 per hour
- North End: $14.00 per hour
Waitresses working in the North End can expect higher pay, with Downtown Tacoma also offering competitive wages above the city average.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Tacoma?
Several key factors influence the salary of a Waitress in Tacoma:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Waitresses who provide excellent customer service and multitasking skills tend to earn more.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and fine dining venues typically pay higher wages and offer better tips compared to casual dining or fast food.
- Shift and Hours Worked: Working evening or weekend shifts might result in higher earnings due to increased customer volume and potential for better tips.
- Local Economy and Cost of Living: Tacoma's economic conditions and living expenses can impact wage levels and tipping behavior.
How To Become a Waitress in Tacoma
To pursue a career as a Waitress in Tacoma, consider the following steps:
- Gain Basic Food Service Knowledge: Enroll in programs like the Tacoma Community College Culinary Arts Program, which offers comprehensive training in culinary skills and food service preparation.
- Obtain Required Certifications: Acquire mandatory certifications such as the Washington State Food Worker Card to ensure compliance with food safety standards. For establishments serving alcohol, obtaining an Alcohol Server Permit (MAST) is essential.
- Develop Communication and Customer Service Skills: These skills are critical for success and earning good tips in the role.
- Seek Practical Experience: Consider starting with entry-level waiter/waitress positions or assisting roles to build experience.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Tacoma
Several prominent employers in Tacoma frequently hire Waitresses, including:
- E3 Co. Restaurant Group
- US Department of Veterans Affairs
- Sodexo Live!
Establishments That Waitresses in Tacoma Work At
Waitresses in Tacoma typically find work in various types of establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These venues offer steady employment, though wages and tips may vary.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Usually have a faster pace and may offer lower tips but higher base wages.
- Fine Dining Establishments: These tend to pay more with opportunities for higher tips due to premium service expectations.
- Bars and Cafes: May offer a blend of wages and tips, often requiring an Alcohol Server Permit (MAST).
The nature of the establishment significantly affects the waitress’s compensation, with upscale settings generally rewarding more.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Tacoma for Waitresses
If you are considering roles similar to Waitressing, here are a few related careers you might explore:
These include Bartender, Hostess, and Fine Dining Server positions, which share overlapping skills and may offer varying compensation structures.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Tacoma
Waitresses in Tacoma should stay informed about local and federal labor laws to ensure fair treatment and compliance.
- Visit the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries website for detailed information on workplace rights, minimum wage, and safety standards.
- For federal labor law resources, check the U.S. Department of Labor's official site for regulations on wages, working hours, and tax obligations.