Waitress Salary in Tulsa, OK
Waitresses in Tulsa, OK, in 2025, earn approximately $16.01 per hour, which translates to about $640.40 per week, $2,775.07 per month, and $33,300.80 per year.
The job market for WAITRESSES in Tulsa is growing positively at around 5% per year, indicating increasing opportunities and demand for this role in the city's hospitality sector.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Tulsa, OK?
The salary of a Waitress in Tulsa can vary depending on level of experience, skills, and workplace, but the following chart provides a general overview of earnings across different stages.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $8.70 | $348.00 | $1,508.00 | $18,096.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.01 | $640.40 | $2,775.07 | $33,300.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $29.45 | $1,178.00 | $5,103.33 | $61,056.00 |
Do Waitresses in Tulsa Earn Tips?
Yes, WAITRESSES commonly earn tips which can significantly boost their income. On average, a waitress in Tulsa might make an extra $10 per hour in tips depending on the establishment and shift.
Waitress Salary in Tulsa vs. National Average
The national average hourly wage for WAITRESSES is around $17.61, with an annual salary averaging about $36,628.80.
Compared to this, WAITRESSES in Tulsa earn slightly less, making approximately $16.01 per hour and $33,300.80 per year, reflecting the regional cost of living and local market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Tulsa for Waitresses
In nearby areas, the wages can vary slightly, with some neighborhoods offering better pay:
- Downtown Tulsa: $17.50 per hour
- Brookside: $18.00 per hour
Those working in Brookside may benefit from higher hourly rates compared to other parts of the city.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Tulsa?
A variety of factors influence the salary of a WAITRESS in Tulsa including:
- Experience and Tenure: More experienced waitresses usually command higher wages and better tips.
- Skills and Customer Service: Exceptional communication, multitasking, and upselling skills can increase earnings.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants typically pay more than casual or fast-food eateries.
- Shift and Hours Worked: Evening and weekend shifts can offer more tips and sometimes higher pay.
- Location: Working in higher-end neighborhoods or busy commercial districts often results in better pay.
How To Become a Waitress in Tulsa
Starting a career as a WAITRESS in Tulsa involves several practical steps:
- Enroll in Local Hospitality or Culinary Programs: Institutions like Tulsa Community College Hospitality Management Program provide comprehensive training suitable for service roles.
- Consider Culinary Arts Education: Programs such as Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology Culinary Arts Program offer valuable hands-on experience.
- Obtain Necessary Certifications: Earning an Oklahoma Alcohol Server Permit is essential for serving alcoholic beverages responsibly.
- Food Safety Training: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is nationally recognized and important for maintaining health standards.
- Gain Practical Experience: Starting in entry-level positions helps build the skills needed for advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Tulsa
Some of the well-known employers frequently hiring WAITRESSES in Tulsa include:
- Outback Steakhouse
- Texas Roadhouse
- Red Lobster
Establishments That Waitresses in Tulsa Work At
WAITRESSES in Tulsa are typically employed across various types of establishments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often provide a steady flow of customers with moderate tips and wages.
- Fast Casual Eateries: Usually pay less in wages but see high turnover and quick service.
- Fine Dining Venues: Tend to offer higher wages and significantly more in tips due to upscale clientele.
- Bars and Lounges: Depending on the alcohol sales, waitresses may earn more through tips here.
The type of establishment plays a major role in overall earnings and benefits.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Tulsa for Waitresses
If you are interested in roles similar to WAITRESS, consider these related hospitality careers in Tulsa:
These include Server, Backwaiter, and Banquet Server, all of which involve customer service in the hospitality industry with overlapping skill sets.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Tulsa
WAITRESSES in Tulsa should be knowledgeable about applicable labor laws and tax regulations.
- For state-specific labor regulations and employment information visit the Official website of the State of Oklahoma.
- Federal labor laws and worker rights can be explored at the U.S. Department of Labor's official site.