Server salary in United States

Average Yearly Salary of Server in United States is approximately 18,713 USD (18,611 USD). Data is for 2025 and indicates a pre-tax value. The salary itself depends on multiple factors such as seniority, job performance, certifications, experience or any other bonuses. The value indicated is an average amount based on records we have in database. Real values may vary. The data is for orientational purposes.

What does Server do?

A server is responsible for delivering food and beverages to customers in a restaurant or other dining establishment. They take orders from customers, relay them to the kitchen staff, and ensure that the correct meals are served promptly and accurately. Servers also provide recommendations on menu items, answer customer inquiries, and address any concerns or complaints. They must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills to provide exceptional customer service and create a positive dining experience. Additionally, servers may be required to handle cash transactions, clean and set up tables, and assist with general restaurant duties.

Skills: Server, Waitstaff, Food Service, Hospitality, Customer Service, Restaurant
Job industry: Hospitality

How much does Server make?

Difference in salary year over year or average salary increase is approximately 4 %


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Salary comparison to National average

Is Server a well paid job?

No, our data shows that Server is quite an underpaid paid job. The salary varies based on experience. Meaning that even though Server might be a low paying job, with experience the salary might increase to satisfactory levels.

What is considered a high salary for Server?

High salary for Server would be somewhere between 20,584 USD and 27,134 USD. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Server in United States?

Living in United States the approximate monthly expenses are: 2,280 USD. This amount covers basic needs such as food, housing, clothing, healthcare and education costs for a single person. No luxury expenses such as traveling, leisure, hobbies are included in the estimation.

Estimated Yearly Salary: 18,713 USD
Estimated Monthly Salary: 1,559 USD
Estimated Weekly Salary: 360 USD per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 9 USD per hour
Our data indicates that by working as Server you will not be able to save much money and will likely need to make adjustments to your lifestyle to go comfortably through the month.

NOTE: These values are estimates and are averaged for the whole country. Furthermore the value is likely exaggerated as no other expenses are taken into account in the projection. Unessential expenses are very subjective and are difficult to assess. Most likely the previously estimated number is significantly lower for majority of people. Expenses in different cities across the country may vary. Above values accuracy is low and is based on limited set of data obtained.

For more information regarding expenses in United States, see costs of living in United States.

Salary comparison to region and neighbouring coutries

Country's neighbours are: Canada, Mexico.
To make it easier for comparison a conversion from local currency to USD has been made (conversion rates may vary).

Estimated Yearly Salary for Server

Last revision of data: 2025-01-04

Salary increase per years of experience

Based on data available the salary increase per years of experience is as following

0 years (beginner) equals base salary

1 to 5 years of experience yields +12% salary increase

6 to 10 years of experience yields +25% salary increase

11 to 15 years of experience yields +16% salary increase

16 to 25 years of experience yields +9% salary increase

more than 25 years of experience yields +10% salary increase

NOTE: Details based on limited set of data. Percentages may vary. The salary increase over years of experience can vary widely based on factors such as job industry, job role, location, company size, and individual performance. To gain even larger increase in salary one is advised to switch jobs and / or employer.

Top 10 highest salaries in United States

Data as of 2025

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