Waiters and Waitresses Salary in New Haven, CT

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • New Haven, CT

Median annual salary $36,730 +8.8% vs national
Median hourly $17.66
10th percentile $32,640
90th percentile $72,600
Employed locally 3,250
National median $33,760

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Waiters and Waitresses
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    In New Haven, CT, the typical waiter or waitress earns a median annual salary of $36,730, which translates to an hourly wage of approximately $17.66. This figure is slightly higher than the national median for waiters and waitresses, which stands at $33,760. When compared to the local area's median household income of $86,266, it becomes evident that earnings in this occupation are significantly lower than what most households in New Haven earn. The disparity highlights the challenges faced by individuals working as waitstaff, particularly when considering living expenses and cost of living within the city.

    The earning potential for waiters and waitresses in New Haven varies considerably based on experience levels. Entry-level workers tend to earn around the 10th percentile mark, making approximately $32,640 annually. In contrast, experienced workers at the 75th percentile can expect salaries up to $49,770 per year, with top earners in the 90th percentile reaching annual incomes of about $72,600. This substantial difference is driven by factors such as tenure, skill level, and the ability to secure positions in high-end establishments or those offering lucrative tips and benefits. Additionally, factors like shifts worked (e.g., weekend vs. weekday), customer service skills, and local economic conditions also play a significant role in determining earnings for waitstaff in New Haven.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $32,640
    25th
    $32,640
    50th (median)
    $36,730
    75th
    $49,770
    90th
    $72,600

    New Haven economic context

    Unemployment rate 3.20% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $86,266 2023 • Census ACS
    Waiters and Waitresses salary vs area income 43% Median Waiters and Waitresses salary is 57% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Waiters and Waitresses make per hour in New Haven?

    The median hourly wage for Waiters and Waitresses in New Haven, CT is $17.66, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $30.49 or more per hour.

    Is New Haven above or below average for Waiters and Waitresses salaries?

    The median Waiters and Waitresses salary in New Haven, CT is 8.8% above 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 New Haven?

    Entry-level Waiters and Waitresses (10th percentile) earn around $32,640 per year in New Haven, CT. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $32,640.