Waiters and Waitresses Salary in Oklahoma City, OK

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Oklahoma City, OK

Median annual salary $20,150 -40.3% vs national
Median hourly $9.69
10th percentile $16,980
90th percentile $47,090
Employed locally 11,350
National median $33,760

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Waiters and Waitresses
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Oklahoma City, OK
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    In Oklahoma City, waiters and waitresses earn a median annual salary of $20,150, which translates to approximately $9.69 per hour. This figure is significantly lower than the national median for this occupation, which stands at $33,760. When compared to local household income, the earnings for waitstaff are also notably modest; Oklahoma City's area median household income is $70,499. Given these statistics, it becomes evident that individuals in this role generally earn less than half of what an average household in the city brings in annually.

    The salary range for entry-level waiters and waitresses in Oklahoma City starts at about $16,980 (10th percentile), while those with more experience can earn significantly higher wages, with earnings up to $47,090 at the 90th percentile. This disparity is driven by several factors including years of experience, skill level, hours worked, and employment setting. Entry-level workers typically begin closer to the lower end of the pay scale, often in less prominent establishments or during off-peak hours. Conversely, experienced waitstaff may work in higher-end restaurants or during busy shifts, commanding better tips and potentially receiving additional bonuses or benefits that contribute to their higher earnings.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $16,980
    25th
    $17,710
    50th (median)
    $20,150
    75th
    $30,800
    90th
    $47,090

    Oklahoma City economic context

    Unemployment rate 3.10% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $70,499 2023 • Census ACS
    Waiters and Waitresses salary vs area income 29% Median Waiters and Waitresses salary is 71% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Waiters and Waitresses make per hour in Oklahoma City?

    The median hourly wage for Waiters and Waitresses in Oklahoma City, OK is $9.69, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $28.44 or more per hour.

    Is Oklahoma City above or below average for Waiters and Waitresses salaries?

    The median Waiters and Waitresses salary in Oklahoma City, OK is 40.3% 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 Oklahoma City?

    Entry-level Waiters and Waitresses (10th percentile) earn around $16,980 per year in Oklahoma City, OK. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $17,710.