How to Become a Waiters and Waitresses in Indiana
Waiters and Waitresses in Indiana earn a median salary of $27,420/year, which is 19% below the national average. Indiana has a state income tax of ~3.0%. After taxes and rent, a waiters and waitresses takes home approximately $524/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.
What a waiters and waitresses can afford in Indiana
Becoming a waiters and waitresses in Indiana
Meet education requirements
Waiters and Waitresses positions in Indiana typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Indiana. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many waiters and waitresses positions in Indiana require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Indiana licensure or certification
Indiana may require specific licensing or professional certification for waiters and waitressess. Requirements vary by state — contact the Indiana Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Indiana
Indiana employs 43,880 waiters and waitresses. The highest concentrations are in South Bend-Mishawaka and Indianapolis-Carmel-Greenwood.
Waiters and Waitresses salary by metro area in Indiana
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| South Bend-Mishawaka | $29K | $13.71/hr | 1,920 |
| Indianapolis-Carmel-Greenwood | $28K | $13.55/hr | 15,910 |
| Fort Wayne | $28K | $13.54/hr | 3,290 |
| Elkhart-Goshen | $28K | $13.42/hr | 1,040 |
| Michigan City-La Porte | $27K | $13.18/hr | 730 |
| Lafayette-West Lafayette | $27K | $13.16/hr | 1,320 |
| Evansville | $26K | $12.73/hr | 2,090 |
| Bloomington | $26K | $12.66/hr | 1,630 |
| Kokomo | $25K | $11.8/hr | 710 |
| Columbus | $24K | $11.63/hr | 520 |
| Terre Haute | $24K | $11.52/hr | 1,140 |
| Muncie | $22K | $10.74/hr | 820 |
Waiters and Waitresses salary range in Indiana
Waiters and Waitresses careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a waiters and waitresses make in Indiana?▼
The median waiters and waitresses salary in Indiana is $27,420 per year ($13.18/hr). This is 19% below the national median of $33,760. Salaries range from $17,410 to $48,000.
What are the requirements to become a waiters and waitresses in Indiana?▼
Waiters and Waitresses positions in Indiana typically require No formal educational credential. Indiana may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Indiana licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a waiters and waitresses afford to live in Indiana?▼
At the median salary of $27,420, a waiters and waitresses in Indiana would take home approximately $1,936/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 72.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for waiters and waitresses in Indiana?▼
The highest paying metro areas for waiters and waitresses in Indiana are South Bend-Mishawaka ($28,510), Indianapolis-Carmel-Greenwood ($28,180), Fort Wayne ($28,170). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Indiana have state income tax for waiters and waitresses?▼
Yes, Indiana has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.0%. On a $27,420 salary, this means roughly $836/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.