Waitress Salary in Tempe, AZ
Waitresses in Tempe, AZ, in 2025, earn approximately $18.74 per hour, which translates to about $749.60 per week, $3,248.27 per month, and $38,979.20 per year.
The demand for Waitresses in Tempe is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting positive job prospects and expanding opportunities in the local hospitality sector.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Tempe, AZ?
The salary of a Waitress in Tempe can vary with experience and establishment type, but here is a general overview of earnings across different levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.70 | $588.00 | $2,538.00 | $30,456.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.74 | $749.60 | $3,248.27 | $38,979.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $28.16 | $1,126.40 | $4,867.73 | $58,892.80 |
Do Waitresses in Tempe Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses in Tempe generally earn tips which can significantly increase their income. On average, a Waitress might make an extra $10 per hour in tips, adding considerably to their base salary and overall earnings.
Waitress Salary in Tempe vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn an average of around $17.50 per hour, with the yearly average salary being approximately $36,400.
Compared to the national average, Waitresses in Tempe earn slightly more at about $18.74 per hour and $38,979.20 annually. This reflects the competitive pay rates in the local market and potentially better tips in the area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Tempe for Waitresses
Nearby areas offering higher salaries for Waitresses include:
- Downtown Tempe: $20.50 per hour
- Tempe Marketplace Area: $21.00 per hour
Working in these areas can provide better earning opportunities due to their bustling dining scenes and higher customer volumes.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Tempe?
Multiple factors affect a Waitress's earning potential in Tempe:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Waitresses with excellent customer service skills tend to secure higher base wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and busy casual dining venues typically offer better pay and tip potential compared to fast food or lower-end eateries.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts often come with higher tip income and sometimes shift differentials in base pay.
- Location: Working in high-traffic areas such as Downtown Tempe or Tempe Marketplace generally offers increased earning opportunities.
How To Become a Waitress in Tempe
Starting a career as a Waitress in Tempe involves several key steps:
- Obtain Required Certifications: Get certified with the Arizona Food Handler's Card, which is mandatory for all food service workers in Arizona.
- Pursue Additional Training: Consider hospitality programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Mesa Community College or the Hospitality Management Program at Arizona State University to enhance service skills and career prospects.
- Complete TIPS Certification: This certification teaches responsible alcohol service and is valuable for Waitresses working in establishments serving alcohol.
- Gain Experience: Entry-level positions or assisting roles help build practical skills needed to excel in this role.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Tempe
Some of the prominent employers currently hiring Waitresses in Tempe include:
- Texas Roadhouse
- Olive Garden
- The Keg Steakhouse + Bar
- Culinary Dropout
- Postino WineCafe
Establishments That Waitresses in Tempe Work At
Waitresses in Tempe typically work in a variety of dining settings:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These establishments provide steady work and moderate tip potential.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Often busier and faster-paced, these can offer a different experience but usually slightly lower tips.
- Fine Dining: Upscale restaurants offer higher base salaries and greater tip earnings due to more expensive menus and higher service expectations.
- Bars and Wine Cafés: These venues often provide excellent tip opportunities, especially during busy hours and weekends.
The type of establishment can greatly affect both the base pay and tip income for Waitresses in Tempe.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Tempe for Waitresses
If you are interested in related roles within hospitality, here are some similar careers worth considering:
These include Server, Fine Dining Server, and Backwaiter positions, all of which share customer interaction and service skills similar to those of a Waitress.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Tempe
Waitresses in Tempe should familiarize themselves with labor laws and tax requirements to ensure compliance and proper financial management.
- Check the Arizona Department of Health Services for state health regulations and certifications relevant to food handlers.
- Visit the Arizona Department of Economic Security for resources on employment laws and labor standards.
- Refer to the Internal Revenue Service for federal tax information and guidance applicable to income earned as a Waitress.