Waiters and Waitresses Salary in Austin, TX
BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos, TX
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In Austin, Texas, the typical waiter or waitress earns a median annual salary of $29,740, which is approximately $14.30 per hour. This figure is notably lower than the national median for waiters and waitresses, which stands at $33,760 annually. When compared to the local median household income in Austin, which is $97,638, the earnings of waitstaff represent a significant portion but still fall short, indicating that many households may rely on multiple sources of income or additional earners to reach the area's median standard of living.
Entry-level workers in this occupation in Austin generally earn closer to the 10th percentile mark, around $18,800 annually, while those at the 25th percentile can expect earnings of about $20,760. In contrast, experienced waiters and waitresses with higher skill levels or positions in more upscale establishments might see their incomes rise significantly, reaching up to the 75th percentile at approximately $44,940 per year. The most seasoned professionals may even achieve salaries near the 90th percentile, earning as much as $55,780 annually. These differences are primarily driven by factors such as experience, location of employment within Austin, tips received, and the establishment's reputation or pricing level. As the demand for skilled service personnel remains consistent in a thriving job market with an unemployment rate of 3.50%, opportunities for advancement and salary growth exist for those willing to develop their expertise.
Salary percentile breakdown
Austin economic context
Frequently asked questions
How much do Waiters and Waitresses make per hour in Austin?
The median hourly wage for Waiters and Waitresses in Austin, TX is $14.30, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $27.76 or more per hour.
Is Austin above or below average for Waiters and Waitresses salaries?
The median Waiters and Waitresses salary in Austin, TX is 11.9% 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 Austin?
Entry-level Waiters and Waitresses (10th percentile) earn around $18,800 per year in Austin, TX. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $20,760.