Waitress Salary in Washington, DC
Waitresses in Washington, DC, 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 job outlook for Waitresses in Washington, DC is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy demand for server roles within the area’s vibrant hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Washington, DC?
The salary of a Waitress in Washington, DC varies depending on experience and employer. Here is a breakdown of earnings 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 | $2,426.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,947.33 | $35,360.00 |
Do Waitresses in Washington, DC Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses typically earn tips in addition to their hourly wage. In Washington, DC, it is common for Waitresses to receive an extra $10 per hour in tips, which can significantly increase their overall earnings.
Waitress Salary in Washington, DC vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn an average of about $14.50 per hour, which corresponds to roughly $30,160 per year.
In comparison, Waitresses in Washington, DC earn a slightly lower base hourly wage of $13.90 per hour and an annual salary of $28,912.
This difference may reflect local cost-of-living adjustments and the tipping culture within Washington, DC.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Washington, DC for Waitresses
Nearby areas offering higher wages for Waitresses include:
- Georgetown: $15.50 per hour
- Dupont Circle: $17.60 per hour
Working in these neighborhoods may offer Waitresses better pay opportunities due to the upscale dining establishments located there.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Washington, DC?
Experience level is a primary factor; Waitresses with more years on the job tend to earn higher wages.
Skills such as customer service, speed, and order accuracy also play important roles in salary determination.
The type of establishment greatly influences earnings: fine dining restaurants often pay more and tips are typically higher than at fast casual or diner environments.
Furthermore, work schedule and shift differentials, like weekend or evening shifts, can contribute to increased pay.
How To Become a Waitress in Washington, DC
Starting a career as a Waitress in Washington, DC can be aided by several educational and certification pathways.
Formal training through programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at L'Academie de Cuisine provides valuable hands-on experience, while the Hospitality Management Program at George Washington University offers a strong foundation in hospitality operations.
Obtaining certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensures knowledge of food safety practices required in the food service industry.
Additionally, the TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification educates servers on responsible alcohol service, which is important for many Washington, DC establishments.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Washington, DC
Leading employers actively seeking Waitresses include:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Waitresses in Washington, DC Work At
Waitresses in Washington, DC can be found working in a variety of establishments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These places offer consistent work but may have modest pay and tipping opportunities.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: Tend to have lower base pay with sometimes fewer tipping prospects.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Usually provide higher salaries and significantly better tip potential, boosting total compensation.
- Bars and Nightclubs: Where tips can be much higher but work can be more demanding.
The choice of establishment can greatly affect earnings, with fine dining offering the highest pay ceilings for experienced Waitresses.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Washington, DC for Waitresses
If you're interested in hospitality careers similar to being a Waitress, consider roles such as:
These include Server, Backwaiter, and Fine Dining Server, which share similar work environments and skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Washington, DC
It is crucial for Waitresses in Washington, DC to understand federal and local labor laws and tax obligations.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for comprehensive federal guidelines.
- The District of Columbia Department of Employment Services website offers local labor laws and employment resources.