How to Become a Waiters and Waitresses in Louisiana
Waiters and Waitresses in Louisiana earn a median salary of $16,880/year, which is 50% below the national average. Louisiana has a state income tax of ~2.3%. After taxes and rent, a waiters and waitresses takes home approximately -$161/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.
What a waiters and waitresses can afford in Louisiana
Becoming a waiters and waitresses in Louisiana
Meet education requirements
Waiters and Waitresses positions in Louisiana typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Louisiana. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many waiters and waitresses positions in Louisiana require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Louisiana licensure or certification
Louisiana may require specific licensing or professional certification for waiters and waitressess. Requirements vary by state — contact the Louisiana Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Louisiana
Louisiana employs 33,170 waiters and waitresses. The highest concentrations are in New Orleans-Metairie and Lake Charles.
Waiters and Waitresses salary by metro area in Louisiana
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Orleans-Metairie | $18K | $8.84/hr | 10,030 |
| Lake Charles | $18K | $8.49/hr | 1,490 |
| Shreveport-Bossier City | $17K | $8.36/hr | 2,730 |
| Alexandria | $16K | $7.93/hr | 680 |
| Hammond | $16K | $7.93/hr | 1,040 |
| Lafayette | $16K | $7.92/hr | 3,390 |
| Slidell-Mandeville-Covington | $16K | $7.79/hr | 2,580 |
| Baton Rouge | $16K | $7.78/hr | 6,430 |
| Houma-Bayou Cane-Thibodaux | $16K | $7.67/hr | 1,180 |
| Monroe | $15K | $7.44/hr | 1,270 |
Waiters and Waitresses salary range in Louisiana
Waiters and Waitresses careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a waiters and waitresses make in Louisiana?▼
The median waiters and waitresses salary in Louisiana is $16,880 per year ($8.11/hr). This is 50% below the national median of $33,760. Salaries range from $15,080 to $43,690.
What are the requirements to become a waiters and waitresses in Louisiana?▼
Waiters and Waitresses positions in Louisiana typically require No formal educational credential. Louisiana may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Louisiana licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a waiters and waitresses afford to live in Louisiana?▼
At the median salary of $16,880, a waiters and waitresses in Louisiana would take home approximately $1,251/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 112.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for waiters and waitresses in Louisiana?▼
The highest paying metro areas for waiters and waitresses in Louisiana are New Orleans-Metairie ($18,380), Lake Charles ($17,670), Shreveport-Bossier City ($17,380). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Louisiana have state income tax for waiters and waitresses?▼
Yes, Louisiana has a state income tax rate of approximately 2.3%. On a $16,880 salary, this means roughly $385/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.