Waiters and Waitresses Salary in Phoenix, AZ

In Phoenix, Arizona, waiters and waitresses typically earn a median annual salary of $37,650, which translates to an hourly wage of approximately $18.10. This figure is notably higher than the national median for this occupation, which stands at $33,760 annually. When compared to the local area's median household income of $84,703, the earnings of waiters and waitresses in Phoenix account for about 44% of a typical household's income. Such a comparison highlights that while individuals in this role can contribute significantly towards their household finances, they still earn less than half of what the average household takes home annually.

For entry-level waiters and waitresses in Phoenix, earnings start at around $30,170 per year, which is near the 10th percentile mark. Those who have gained more experience and skills may see a substantial increase in their income, with those at the 25th percentile earning about $32,240 annually, and those at the 75th percentile making approximately $60,930. The highest earners within this occupation reach up to $78,900 per year, near the 90th percentile. The variation in earnings is largely driven by factors such as experience, hours worked, location of employment (e.g., upscale restaurants vs. casual dining establishments), and additional skills or responsibilities like managing a section or handling reservations. These elements collectively contribute to the notable disparity between entry-level and seasoned professionals within this field.