How Much Does A Waitress Make An Hour Without Tips

Waitress Hourly Income Without Tips

The food service industry is one of the largest employment sectors in the United States. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the food and beverage industry employed over 10 million people in 2020. Waitressing is a common job in this industry, and it’s essential to understand how much a waitress makes an hour without tips. This research article aims to explore the hourly wages for waitresses without including tips and analyze the factors that influence their earnings.

Hourly Wages for Waitresses

The federal minimum wage for tipped employees is $2.13 per hour, which has remained the same since 1991. However, if the employee’s tips plus their hourly wage do not equal the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour, the employer must make up the difference. Therefore, the hourly wage for waitresses varies depending on their tips and the state in which they work.

The hourly wages for waitresses without tips can range from $2.13 to $15 per hour, depending on the state’s minimum wage laws. In states where the minimum wage is the same for tipped and non-tipped employees, such as California, Oregon, and Washington, waitresses earn the same minimum wage as other employees. As of 2021, the minimum wage in these states is $13 per hour or higher.

However, in states where the minimum wage for tipped employees is lower than the regular minimum wage, waitresses earn less than the standard minimum wage. For example, in Texas, the minimum wage for tipped employees is $2.13 per hour, while the regular minimum wage is $7.25 per hour. Therefore, waitresses in Texas can earn as little as $2.13 per hour without tips.

Factors that Influence Waitress Wages

Several factors influence how much a waitress makes an hour without tips. These factors include:

1. Location: The state and city where the waitress works can significantly affect their hourly wage. States with higher minimum wages tend to pay waitresses more than states with lower minimum wages.
2. Experience: Waitresses with more experience in the industry tend to earn more than those with less experience. Experienced waitresses are more likely to have regular customers who tip well and have a better understanding of the industry.
3. Type of Restaurant: The type of restaurant where the waitress works can also affect their hourly wage. Waitresses who work in high-end restaurants or restaurants with a higher average check size tend to earn more than those who work in fast-food restaurants.
4. Shifts: Waitresses who work the night shift or weekends tend to earn more than those who work during the day. This is because the night shift and weekends are usually busier, and customers tend to tip more during these times.
5. Education and Certification: Waitresses with a degree in hospitality or food service management or those with certifications, such as sommelier or wine specialist, tend to earn more than those without any formal education or certification.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the hourly wages for waitresses without tips can range from $2.13 to $15 per hour, depending on the state’s minimum wage laws. Factors that influence waitress wages include location, experience, type of restaurant, shifts, education, and certification. Understanding these factors can help waitresses negotiate for a higher wage and choose the best location and restaurant to work in. It’s crucial to note that while tips are an essential part of a waitress’s income, they should not rely solely on tips to earn a living wage. Employers must ensure that their employees are paid at least the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour, including tips.