Waiters and Waitresses Salary in Madison, WI

In Madison, WI, waiters and waitresses typically earn a median annual salary of $30,520, which translates to an hourly wage of approximately $14.67. This figure is slightly below the national median for this occupation, which stands at $33,760. When compared to the local median household income of $86,827, the earnings of those in the waiting profession represent a significant disparity, indicating that the typical worker's income is well below the area’s average household income level. The concentration of approximately 5,330 individuals employed as waiters and waitresses in Madison underscores their crucial role within the local service industry, despite the relatively low compensation compared to other households.

The earnings landscape for waiters and waitresses in Madison reveals a broad range between entry-level and experienced workers. Entry-level positions tend to align with the lower end of the salary spectrum; specifically, those at the 10th percentile earn around $18,250 annually. In contrast, more seasoned professionals who reach or exceed the 75th percentile can expect earnings upwards of $43,910 per year. This disparity in pay is largely driven by factors such as experience, hours worked, and skill level, including specialization in particular types of cuisine or dining establishments that command higher rates for service staff. Additionally, those at the upper echelon, near the 90th percentile, can earn up to $59,270 annually, reflecting the potential for significant income growth within this occupation based on performance and tenure.