Waiters and Waitresses Salary in Augusta, GA-SC

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Augusta-Richmond County, GA-SC

Median annual salary $18,200 -46.1% vs national
Median hourly $8.75
10th percentile $15,080
90th percentile $43,370
Employed locally 3,680
National median $33,760

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Waiters and Waitresses
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    In Augusta, GA-SC, waiters and waitresses earn a median annual salary of $18,200, with an hourly wage averaging $8.75. This is significantly lower than the national median for this occupation, which stands at $33,760 annually. When compared to local household income in the area, which has a median of $66,628, the earnings of typical waitstaff are markedly less—nearly one-third that amount. This disparity highlights the financial challenges faced by individuals working as waiters and waitresses in this region. Despite an estimated employment of 3,680 workers in this field, the local unemployment rate remains at a relatively low 4.40%, indicating a stable job market for these positions.

    Earnings among waiters and waitresses can vary considerably based on experience. Those at the entry-level tend to earn near the 10th percentile, making around $15,080 annually, while those with more experience might reach the 75th percentile with earnings of approximately $29,000 per year. Top earners, at the 90th percentile, can make up to $43,370 annually. The significant difference in wages is primarily driven by factors such as tenure, skill level, and the ability to handle larger tips, especially in high-volume or upscale dining establishments. Experience often leads to better job placements, higher base pay, and increased opportunities for substantial tip earnings, contributing to the overall wage growth within this profession.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $15,080
    25th
    $15,080
    50th (median)
    $18,200
    75th
    $29,000
    90th
    $43,370

    Augusta economic context

    Unemployment rate 4.40% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $66,628 2023 • Census ACS
    Waiters and Waitresses salary vs area income 27% Median Waiters and Waitresses salary is 73% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Waiters and Waitresses make per hour in Augusta?

    The median hourly wage for Waiters and Waitresses in Augusta, GA-SC is $8.75, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $22.78 or more per hour.

    Is Augusta above or below average for Waiters and Waitresses salaries?

    The median Waiters and Waitresses salary in Augusta, GA-SC is 46.1% below the national median of $33,760. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Waiters and Waitresses in Augusta?

    Entry-level Waiters and Waitresses (10th percentile) earn around $15,080 per year in Augusta, GA-SC. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $15,080.