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Food Service · Arkansas

How to Become a Waiters and Waitresses in Arkansas

Waiters and Waitresses in Arkansas earn a median salary of $26,350/year, which is 22% below the national average. Arkansas has a state income tax of ~3.3%. After taxes and rent, a waiters and waitresses takes home approximately $450/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$26K
Median salary in Arkansas
-22%
vs. national average
3.3%
State income tax
17,820
Employed in Arkansas

What a waiters and waitresses can afford in Arkansas

Gross annual salary$26,350
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 3.3% state tax)$1,862/mo
Median 2BR rent (Arkansas)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home75.8% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$26,350/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$450/mo

Becoming a waiters and waitresses in Arkansas

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain Arkansas licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in Arkansas

Arkansas employs 17,820 waiters and waitresses. The highest concentrations are in Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers and Jonesboro.

Waiters and Waitresses salary by metro area in Arkansas

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers$27K$12.92/hr4,490
Jonesboro$27K$12.91/hr880
Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway$26K$12.73/hr5,760
Fort Smith$26K$12.48/hr1,390
Hot Springs$26K$12.38/hr970

Waiters and Waitresses salary range in Arkansas

10th percentile (entry)
$23K
25th percentile
$24K
Median (50th)
$26K
75th percentile
$30K
90th percentile (senior)
$44K
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Waiters and Waitresses careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a waiters and waitresses make in Arkansas?

The median waiters and waitresses salary in Arkansas is $26,350 per year ($12.67/hr). This is 22% below the national median of $33,760. Salaries range from $22,880 to $44,430.

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

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

Can a waiters and waitresses afford to live in Arkansas?

At the median salary of $26,350, a waiters and waitresses in Arkansas would take home approximately $1,862/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 75.8% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

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

The highest paying metro areas for waiters and waitresses in Arkansas are Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers ($26,870), Jonesboro ($26,850), Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway ($26,470). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Arkansas have state income tax for waiters and waitresses?

Yes, Arkansas has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.3%. On a $26,350 salary, this means roughly $860/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.