Waitress Salary in Virginia Beach, VA
Waitresses in Virginia Beach, VA, in 2026, earn approximately $19.24 per hour, translating to about $769.60 per week, $3,334.93 per month, and $40,019.20 per year.
The demand for Waitresses in Virginia Beach is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities in the local food service industry.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Virginia Beach, VA?
The salary of a Waitress in Virginia Beach can vary based on experience and the establishment, but here is an overview across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.41 | $496.40 | $2,147.73 | $25,769.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.24 | $769.60 | $3,334.93 | $40,019.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $31.43 | $1,257.20 | $5,438.13 | $65,366.40 |
Do Waitresses in Virginia Beach Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses in Virginia Beach typically earn tips as a significant part of their income. On average, one can expect to earn an extra $10-$15 per hour in tips, depending on the restaurant and customer volume, which can substantially increase total earnings.
Waitress Salary in Virginia Beach vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn an average of around $17.49 per hour, equating to about $36,379.20 per year.
Compared to the national average, Waitresses in Virginia Beach earn slightly more, at approximately $19.24 per hour and $40,019.20 annually. This difference reflects local market demand and the area's cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Virginia Beach for Waitresses
Nearby areas offer varying compensation for Waitresses:
- Atlantic Shores: $33.00 per hour
- Pho 79 Vietnamese Restaurant: $26.00 per hour
Waitresses working in Atlantic Shores have the potential to earn notably higher wages compared to other local venues, highlighting the impact of location and establishment type on pay.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Virginia Beach?
Several factors can influence how much a Waitress earns in Virginia Beach:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Waitresses tend to secure higher-paying positions and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining and upscale restaurants typically offer higher wages and tips compared to casual dining or fast food.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts can yield better pay and greater tipping opportunities.
- Customer Service Skills: Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills often lead to better tips and promotional opportunities.
- Location: Busy tourist areas or affluent neighborhoods usually offer Waitresses more lucrative earnings.
How To Become a Waitress in Virginia Beach
To pursue a career as a Waitress in Virginia Beach, consider the following steps:
- Gain Relevant Experience: Entry-level positions often do not require previous experience, but having some background in customer service or hospitality helps.
- Complete Food Safety Training: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often necessary and demonstrate knowledge of safe food handling practices.
- Obtain Required Licenses: For serving alcohol, acquiring the Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) License is essential to comply with state laws.
- Consider Culinary or Hospitality Programs: Programs like the Tidewater Community College Culinary Arts Program or courses at the Culinary Institute of Virginia provide valuable skills and credentials.
- Develop Strong Customer Service Skills: Building communication and multitasking abilities can improve job performance and income potential.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Virginia Beach
Some of the notable employers currently hiring Waitresses in Virginia Beach include:
- Atlantic Shores
- Pho 79 Vietnamese Restaurant
- Tapped Crafthouse
Establishments That Waitresses in Virginia Beach Work At
Waitresses can find employment in a range of establishments across Virginia Beach, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer steady work but typically moderate pay and tips.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: These venues usually have lower wages and tipping opportunities.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Higher-end establishments provide better base wages and significantly higher tipping potential.
- Bars and Pubs: Pay and tips can vary widely depending on the crowd and location.
- Hotel and Resort Dining: Such environments often offer benefits and competitive wages due to the volume of guests.
The type and prestige of the establishment greatly influence a Waitress’s total compensation package.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Virginia Beach for Waitresses
If you are interested in roles related to that of a Waitress, consider exploring the following careers which share similar skills and responsibilities:
These careers include Server, Backwaiter, and Fine Dining Server, each offering different levels of responsibility and pay scales.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Virginia Beach
Waitresses in Virginia Beach should be aware of labor laws and tax requirements to manage their work and earnings appropriately.
- For detailed state employment laws and worker rights, visit the Virginia government website.
- The U.S. Department of Labor offers comprehensive information on federal labor regulations.