Waiters and Waitresses Salary in Worcester, MA

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Worcester, MA

Median annual salary $35,260 +4.4% vs national
Median hourly $16.95
10th percentile $31,200
90th percentile $64,360
Employed locally 4,370
National median $33,760

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Waiters and Waitresses
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    In Worcester, MA, waiters and waitresses typically earn a median annual salary of $35,260, which is slightly above the national median of $33,760 for this occupation. This translates to a median hourly wage of $16.95. When compared to the local area's median household income of $93,561, it is evident that earnings from waiting tables constitute less than half of what an average Worcester household earns annually. This disparity highlights the challenges faced by workers in the hospitality industry when trying to meet typical living expenses within the area, especially considering the cost of living and housing market trends prevalent in the region.

    Entry-level waiters and waitresses in Worcester generally earn closer to the 10th percentile mark of $31,200 annually, reflecting lower wages for those just starting out or working part-time. In contrast, more experienced workers may see their earnings rise significantly, with some reaching up to the 75th percentile at $45,020 per year and even further to the 90th percentile at $64,360. This substantial wage growth is often driven by factors such as increased experience, tips accumulation, seniority within a restaurant, and the development of specialized skills or roles that command higher pay. Additionally, working in high-end establishments or locations with affluent clientele can also contribute to the potential for significantly higher earnings over time.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $31,200
    25th
    $33,350
    50th (median)
    $35,260
    75th
    $45,020
    90th
    $64,360

    Worcester economic context

    Unemployment rate 4.10% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $93,561 2023 • Census ACS
    Waiters and Waitresses salary vs area income 38% Median Waiters and Waitresses salary is 62% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Waiters and Waitresses make per hour in Worcester?

    The median hourly wage for Waiters and Waitresses in Worcester, MA is $16.95, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $28.71 or more per hour.

    Is Worcester above or below average for Waiters and Waitresses salaries?

    The median Waiters and Waitresses salary in Worcester, MA is 4.4% 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 Worcester?

    Entry-level Waiters and Waitresses (10th percentile) earn around $31,200 per year in Worcester, MA. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $33,350.