Waitress Salary in Tallahassee, FL
Waitresses in Tallahassee, FL, in 2025, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The demand for Waitresses in Tallahassee is growing moderately at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities and a stable increase in the hospitality sector in this region.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Tallahassee, FL?
The salary of a Waitress in Tallahassee varies depending on experience and establishment. Here is a breakdown by experience level:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,433.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Waitresses in Tallahassee Earn Tips?
Waitresses commonly earn an important portion of their income through tips, typically adding an extra $10 per hour in tips on average. This can significantly increase their overall earnings, especially in busy and upscale establishments.
Waitress Salary in Tallahassee vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn an average of around $14.50 per hour and approximately $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Waitresses in Tallahassee earn slightly less hourly at $13.90 per hour, and the yearly salary of $28,912 is also just below the national average. The cost of living and regional job market factors contribute to this difference.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Tallahassee for Waitresses
Nearby areas offer varied salaries for Waitresses:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- Midtown: $17.60 per hour
Midtown appears to be the highest paying area close to Tallahassee, which could be appealing for those seeking higher wages in waitress roles.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Tallahassee?
Several important factors influence how much a Waitress can earn in Tallahassee:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced waitresses with excellent customer service skills typically earn higher wages and can secure better tipping opportunities.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants and upscale venues generally pay higher base wages and tips compared to casual or fast-food settings.
- Hours and Shifts: Working peak hours, evenings, weekends, or holidays may come with increased tips or shift differentials.
- Location: Restaurants in Downtown or Midtown areas often offer better pay due to busier environments and affluent clientele.
- Certifications and Training: Food safety or alcohol handling certifications may improve earning potential and job chances.
How To Become a Waitress in Tallahassee
Becoming a Waitress in Tallahassee generally involves a combination of training and experience.
Some pathways include:
- Participating in culinary arts programs like Tallahassee Community College Culinary Arts Program, which offers comprehensive food service training.
- Gaining practical skills in programs such as Lively Technical College Culinary Arts Program that provide hands-on experience.
- Obtaining important certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification to ensure knowledge of food safety standards.
- Completing the Florida Responsible Vendor Training especially for waitstaff working in establishments serving alcohol.
- Starting with entry-level positions to build experience and develop strong customer service skills.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Tallahassee
Some of the key employers seeking Waitresses in Tallahassee include:
- McDonalds
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Waitresses in Tallahassee Work At
Waitresses in Tallahassee typically find employment in various establishment types:
- Casual dining restaurants: Common and offering steady hours, though wages and tips can vary.
- Fast casual: Often have faster service but may offer lower wages and limited tipping opportunities.
- Fine dining venues: Tend to provide higher base pay and significant tip potential due to upscale clientele.
- Bars and nightclubs: Often pay well due to heavy tipping but may require knowledge of alcohol service and licensing.
The type and prestige of the establishment strongly affect the total compensation Waitresses receive.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Tallahassee for Waitresses
If you’re interested in careers related to being a Waitress, consider these similar roles:
These include Server, Fine Dining Server, and Backwaiter positions, all within the hospitality and food service industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Tallahassee
Waitresses in Tallahassee should be knowledgeable about labor laws and tax regulations that affect their employment.
- Visit the Federal Department of Labor website for comprehensive information on federal labor laws.
- For state-specific guidance, the State of Florida's official website offers resources on employment rights and labor regulations.
- The City of Tallahassee's official site provides local employment regulations and resources.