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Food Service · Maryland

How to Become a Waiters and Waitresses in Maryland

Waiters and Waitresses in Maryland earn a median salary of $35,140/year, which is 4% above the national average. Maryland has a state income tax of ~4.3%. After taxes and rent, a waiters and waitresses takes home approximately $986/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$35K
Median salary in Maryland
+4%
vs. national average
4.3%
State income tax
37,680
Employed in Maryland

What a waiters and waitresses can afford in Maryland

Gross annual salary$35,140
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.3% state tax)$2,398/mo
Median 2BR rent (Maryland)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home58.9% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$35,140/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$986/mo

Becoming a waiters and waitresses in Maryland

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain Maryland licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in Maryland

Maryland employs 37,680 waiters and waitresses. The highest concentrations are in Baltimore-Columbia-Towson and Lexington Park.

Waiters and Waitresses salary by metro area in Maryland

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Baltimore-Columbia-Towson$35K$16.72/hr19,270
Lexington Park$34K$16.57/hr1,030
Hagerstown-Martinsburg$31K$15/hr1,390
Salisbury$31K$15/hr680

Waiters and Waitresses salary range in Maryland

10th percentile (entry)
$31K
25th percentile
$31K
Median (50th)
$35K
75th percentile
$45K
90th percentile (senior)
$61K
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Full waiters and waitresses salary breakdown in Maryland
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Waiters and Waitresses careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a waiters and waitresses make in Maryland?

The median waiters and waitresses salary in Maryland is $35,140 per year ($16.89/hr). This is 4% above the national median of $33,760. Salaries range from $31,200 to $60,980.

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

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

Can a waiters and waitresses afford to live in Maryland?

At the median salary of $35,140, a waiters and waitresses in Maryland would take home approximately $2,398/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 58.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

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

The highest paying metro areas for waiters and waitresses in Maryland are Baltimore-Columbia-Towson ($34,770), Lexington Park ($34,460), Hagerstown-Martinsburg ($31,200). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Maryland have state income tax for waiters and waitresses?

Yes, Maryland has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.3%. On a $35,140 salary, this means roughly $1,496/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.