Waitress Salary in Tampa, FL
Waitresses in Tampa, FL, in 2025, earn approximately $21.30 per hour, which translates to about $852.00 per week, $3,692.00 per month, and $44,304.00 per year.
The demand for Waitresses in Tampa is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy job market with plenty of opportunities for aspiring professionals in the hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Tampa, FL?
The salary of a Waitress in Tampa varies based on experience and establishment, but here is an overview of typical pay levels across different experience tiers.
| 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) | $21.30 | $852.00 | $3,692.00 | $44,304.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $31.01 | $1,240.40 | $5,376.87 | $64,505.00 |
Do Waitresses in Tampa Earn Tips?
Waitresses typically earn tips as a significant portion of their income. In Tampa, a Waitress can expect to earn an extra $10 per hour in tips, which can substantially increase overall earnings depending on the establishment and shift.
Waitress Salary in Tampa vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn about $17.60 per hour and approximately $36,608 annually.
Compared to the national average, Waitresses in Tampa earn a higher hourly wage, about $21.30 per hour, and annually around $44,304. This higher pay could reflect Tampa’s growing hospitality sector and its demand for skilled waitstaff.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Tampa for Waitresses
Nearby areas offer competitive pay rates for Waitresses:
- Hyde Park: $22.50 per hour
- Downtown Tampa: $23.00 per hour
Waitresses working in Downtown Tampa and Hyde Park can expect slightly higher wages than the city average, often due to the upscale nature of establishments in these neighborhoods.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Tampa?
Several factors significantly affect a Waitress’s salary in Tampa:
- Experience Level: More experienced Waitresses often command higher wages and better tips.
- Skills and Customer Service: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills improve tips and job prospects.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and fine dining venues typically offer higher base wages and better tipping opportunities.
- Shift and Hours Worked: Evening and weekend shifts may include differential pay and increased tip earnings.
- Location: Working in high-traffic tourist or business areas can lead to better earnings.
How To Become a Waitress in Tampa
To begin a career as a Waitress in Tampa, consider these steps:
- Complete Relevant Culinary or Hospitality Programs: Courses such as the Culinary Arts Program at Hillsborough Community College and the Hospitality Management Program at the University of South Florida provide solid foundations on food service and operations.
- Acquire Food Safety Certifications: Holding certifications like ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensures compliance with safety standards often mandated by employers.
- Obtain Alcohol Service Training: The TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification enhances skills related to responsible alcohol service and customer care.
- Gain Experience: Starting in entry-level service roles helps build confidence and skills necessary for more advanced Waitress positions.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Tampa
The following establishments are among the top employers for Waitresses in Tampa:
- Bern's Steak House
- Ulele
- Columbia Restaurant
- The Capital Grille
- Ocean Prime
Establishments That Waitresses in Tampa Work At
Waitresses in Tampa work across a variety of establishments including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often provide steady work with moderate wage and tip opportunities.
- Fast Casual Chains: Typically pay hourly wages with less reliance on tips.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Offer higher base pay and significantly greater tip potentials due to upscale clientele.
- Hotels and Resorts: May provide benefits and consistent work schedules; wages vary based on luxury level.
The nature and prestige of the establishment can greatly impact overall earnings as a Waitress in Tampa.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Tampa for Waitresses
For those interested in similar roles within hospitality, here are some related options worth considering:
These roles include Bartender, Barista, and Fine Dining Server, each offering a unique set of responsibilities and potential salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Tampa
Waitresses operating in Tampa should be mindful of the following resources for labor laws and tax information:
- For comprehensive details on employment laws and wages, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Florida specific labor market information and workforce development can be found on the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity's site.