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Food Service · Kansas

How to Become a Waiters and Waitresses in Kansas

Waiters and Waitresses in Kansas earn a median salary of $31,560/year, which is 7% below the national average. Kansas has a state income tax of ~3.6%. After taxes and rent, a waiters and waitresses takes home approximately $775/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$32K
Median salary in Kansas
-7%
vs. national average
3.6%
State income tax
20,290
Employed in Kansas

What a waiters and waitresses can afford in Kansas

Gross annual salary$31,560
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 3.6% state tax)$2,187/mo
Median 2BR rent (Kansas)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home64.6% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$31,560/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$775/mo

Becoming a waiters and waitresses in Kansas

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain Kansas licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in Kansas

Kansas employs 20,290 waiters and waitresses. The highest concentrations are in Lawrence and Wichita.

Waiters and Waitresses salary by metro area in Kansas

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Lawrence$35K$16.95/hr1,180
Wichita$35K$16.73/hr4,330
Manhattan$33K$16.05/hr920
Topeka$32K$15.19/hr1,300

Waiters and Waitresses salary range in Kansas

10th percentile (entry)
$16K
25th percentile
$20K
Median (50th)
$32K
75th percentile
$46K
90th percentile (senior)
$60K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a waiters and waitresses make in Kansas?

The median waiters and waitresses salary in Kansas is $31,560 per year ($15.17/hr). This is 7% below the national median of $33,760. Salaries range from $15,850 to $60,170.

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

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

Can a waiters and waitresses afford to live in Kansas?

At the median salary of $31,560, a waiters and waitresses in Kansas would take home approximately $2,187/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 64.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

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

The highest paying metro areas for waiters and waitresses in Kansas are Lawrence ($35,250), Wichita ($34,800), Manhattan ($33,380). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Kansas have state income tax for waiters and waitresses?

Yes, Kansas has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.6%. On a $31,560 salary, this means roughly $1,151/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.