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Food Service · Georgia

How to Become a Waiters and Waitresses in Georgia

Waiters and Waitresses in Georgia earn a median salary of $20,040/year, which is 41% below the national average. Georgia has a state income tax of ~3.2%. After taxes and rent, a waiters and waitresses takes home approximately $34/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$20K
Median salary in Georgia
-41%
vs. national average
3.2%
State income tax
71,870
Employed in Georgia

What a waiters and waitresses can afford in Georgia

Gross annual salary$20,040
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 3.2% state tax)$1,446/mo
Median 2BR rent (Georgia)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home97.6% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$20,040/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$34/mo

Becoming a waiters and waitresses in Georgia

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain Georgia licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in Georgia

Georgia employs 71,870 waiters and waitresses. The highest concentrations are in Rome and Savannah.

Waiters and Waitresses salary by metro area in Georgia

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Rome$22K$10.36/hr780
Savannah$21K$9.98/hr4,710
Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell$20K$9.75/hr43,170
Gainesville$20K$9.45/hr1,300
Dalton$19K$9.14/hr690
Hinesville$19K$8.92/hr250
Augusta-Richmond County$18K$8.75/hr3,680
Macon-Bibb County$18K$8.69/hr1,570
Brunswick-St. Simons$18K$8.64/hr1,280
Warner Robins$18K$8.63/hr1,190
Athens-Clarke County$18K$8.56/hr1,950
Valdosta$18K$8.47/hr1,050
Columbus$17K$8.41/hr1,870
Albany$17K$8.33/hr830

Waiters and Waitresses salary range in Georgia

10th percentile (entry)
$15K
25th percentile
$16K
Median (50th)
$20K
75th percentile
$35K
90th percentile (senior)
$47K
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Waiters and Waitresses careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a waiters and waitresses make in Georgia?

The median waiters and waitresses salary in Georgia is $20,040 per year ($9.64/hr). This is 41% below the national median of $33,760. Salaries range from $15,080 to $47,060.

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

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

Can a waiters and waitresses afford to live in Georgia?

At the median salary of $20,040, a waiters and waitresses in Georgia would take home approximately $1,446/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 97.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

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

The highest paying metro areas for waiters and waitresses in Georgia are Rome ($21,560), Savannah ($20,750), Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell ($20,270). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Georgia have state income tax for waiters and waitresses?

Yes, Georgia has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.2%. On a $20,040 salary, this means roughly $649/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.