How to Become a Waiters and Waitresses in Illinois
Waiters and Waitresses in Illinois earn a median salary of $29,120/year, which is 14% below the national average. Illinois has a state income tax of ~4.9%. After taxes and rent, a waiters and waitresses takes home approximately $588/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.
What a waiters and waitresses can afford in Illinois
Becoming a waiters and waitresses in Illinois
Meet education requirements
Waiters and Waitresses positions in Illinois typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Illinois. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many waiters and waitresses positions in Illinois require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Illinois licensure or certification
Illinois may require specific licensing or professional certification for waiters and waitressess. Requirements vary by state — contact the Illinois Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Illinois
Illinois employs 84,550 waiters and waitresses. The highest concentrations are in Bloomington and Champaign-Urbana.
Waiters and Waitresses salary by metro area in Illinois
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bloomington | $29K | $14/hr | 1,540 |
| Champaign-Urbana | $29K | $14/hr | 1,640 |
| Chicago-Naperville-Elgin | $29K | $14/hr | 64,010 |
| Decatur | $29K | $14/hr | 590 |
| Rockford | $29K | $14/hr | 1,820 |
| Springfield | $29K | $14/hr | 1,840 |
| Peoria | $29K | $14/hr | 2,420 |
| Kankakee | $29K | $14/hr | 590 |
Waiters and Waitresses salary range in Illinois
Waiters and Waitresses careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a waiters and waitresses make in Illinois?▼
The median waiters and waitresses salary in Illinois is $29,120 per year ($14/hr). This is 14% below the national median of $33,760. Salaries range from $29,120 to $47,830.
What are the requirements to become a waiters and waitresses in Illinois?▼
Waiters and Waitresses positions in Illinois typically require No formal educational credential. Illinois may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Illinois licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a waiters and waitresses afford to live in Illinois?▼
At the median salary of $29,120, a waiters and waitresses in Illinois would take home approximately $2,000/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 70.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for waiters and waitresses in Illinois?▼
The highest paying metro areas for waiters and waitresses in Illinois are Bloomington ($29,120), Champaign-Urbana ($29,120), Chicago-Naperville-Elgin ($29,120). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Illinois have state income tax for waiters and waitresses?▼
Yes, Illinois has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.9%. On a $29,120 salary, this means roughly $1,441/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.