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Food Service · Hawaii

How to Become a Waiters and Waitresses in Hawaii

Waiters and Waitresses in Hawaii earn a median salary of $48,570/year, which is 44% above the national average. Hawaii has a state income tax of ~6.4%. After taxes and rent, a waiters and waitresses takes home approximately $1,753/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$49K
Median salary in Hawaii
+44%
vs. national average
6.4%
State income tax
13,830
Employed in Hawaii

What a waiters and waitresses can afford in Hawaii

Gross annual salary$48,570
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 6.4% state tax)$3,165/mo
Median 2BR rent (Hawaii)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home44.6% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$48,570/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$1,753/mo

Becoming a waiters and waitresses in Hawaii

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain Hawaii licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in Hawaii

Hawaii employs 13,830 waiters and waitresses. The highest concentrations are in Kahului-Wailuku and Urban Honolulu.

Waiters and Waitresses salary by metro area in Hawaii

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Kahului-Wailuku$72K$34.58/hr2,460
Urban Honolulu$40K$19.09/hr8,480

Waiters and Waitresses salary range in Hawaii

10th percentile (entry)
$29K
25th percentile
$29K
Median (50th)
$49K
75th percentile
$78K
90th percentile (senior)
$105K
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Full waiters and waitresses salary breakdown in Hawaii
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Waiters and Waitresses careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a waiters and waitresses make in Hawaii?

The median waiters and waitresses salary in Hawaii is $48,570 per year ($23.35/hr). This is 44% above the national median of $33,760. Salaries range from $29,120 to $105,480.

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

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

Can a waiters and waitresses afford to live in Hawaii?

At the median salary of $48,570, a waiters and waitresses in Hawaii would take home approximately $3,165/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 44.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

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

The highest paying metro areas for waiters and waitresses in Hawaii are Kahului-Wailuku ($71,920), Urban Honolulu ($39,710). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Hawaii have state income tax for waiters and waitresses?

Yes, Hawaii has a state income tax rate of approximately 6.4%. On a $48,570 salary, this means roughly $3,085/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.