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Food Service · Arizona

How to Become a Waiters and Waitresses in Arizona

Waiters and Waitresses in Arizona earn a median salary of $36,730/year, which is 9% above the national average. Arizona has a state income tax of ~2.5%. After taxes and rent, a waiters and waitresses takes home approximately $1,141/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$37K
Median salary in Arizona
+9%
vs. national average
2.5%
State income tax
55,010
Employed in Arizona

What a waiters and waitresses can afford in Arizona

Gross annual salary$36,730
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 2.5% state tax)$2,553/mo
Median 2BR rent (Arizona)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home55.3% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$36,730/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$1,141/mo

Becoming a waiters and waitresses in Arizona

1

Meet education requirements

Waiters and Waitresses positions in Arizona typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Arizona. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many waiters and waitresses positions in Arizona require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain Arizona licensure or certification

Arizona may require specific licensing or professional certification for waiters and waitressess. Requirements vary by state — contact the Arizona Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Arizona

Arizona employs 55,010 waiters and waitresses. The highest concentrations are in Phoenix-Mesa-Chandler and Flagstaff.

Waiters and Waitresses salary by metro area in Arizona

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Phoenix-Mesa-Chandler$38K$18.1/hr39,140
Flagstaff$36K$17.17/hr2,290
Prescott Valley-Prescott$36K$17.15/hr1,930
Tucson$35K$17.03/hr6,920
Lake Havasu City-Kingman$35K$16.82/hr1,280
Yuma$35K$16.79/hr1,050
Sierra Vista-Douglas$34K$16.57/hr580

Waiters and Waitresses salary range in Arizona

10th percentile (entry)
$30K
25th percentile
$31K
Median (50th)
$37K
75th percentile
$60K
90th percentile (senior)
$78K
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Waiters and Waitresses careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a waiters and waitresses make in Arizona?

The median waiters and waitresses salary in Arizona is $36,730 per year ($17.66/hr). This is 9% above the national median of $33,760. Salaries range from $29,850 to $77,790.

What are the requirements to become a waiters and waitresses in Arizona?

Waiters and Waitresses positions in Arizona typically require No formal educational credential. Arizona may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Arizona licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a waiters and waitresses afford to live in Arizona?

At the median salary of $36,730, a waiters and waitresses in Arizona would take home approximately $2,553/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 55.3% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for waiters and waitresses in Arizona?

The highest paying metro areas for waiters and waitresses in Arizona are Phoenix-Mesa-Chandler ($37,650), Flagstaff ($35,710), Prescott Valley-Prescott ($35,680). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Arizona have state income tax for waiters and waitresses?

Yes, Arizona has a state income tax rate of approximately 2.5%. On a $36,730 salary, this means roughly $918/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.