How to Become a Waiters and Waitresses in Michigan
Waiters and Waitresses in Michigan earn a median salary of $35,940/year, which is 6% above the national average. Michigan has a state income tax of ~4.2%. After taxes and rent, a waiters and waitresses takes home approximately $1,037/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.
What a waiters and waitresses can afford in Michigan
Becoming a waiters and waitresses in Michigan
Meet education requirements
Waiters and Waitresses positions in Michigan typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Michigan. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many waiters and waitresses positions in Michigan require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Michigan licensure or certification
Michigan may require specific licensing or professional certification for waiters and waitressess. Requirements vary by state — contact the Michigan Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Michigan
Michigan employs 64,920 waiters and waitresses. The highest concentrations are in Saginaw and Ann Arbor.
Waiters and Waitresses salary by metro area in Michigan
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Saginaw | $36K | $17.5/hr | 1,480 |
| Ann Arbor | $36K | $17.48/hr | 2,750 |
| Grand Rapids-Wyoming-Kentwood | $36K | $17.43/hr | 7,960 |
| Flint | $36K | $17.38/hr | 2,000 |
| Detroit-Warren-Dearborn | $36K | $17.37/hr | 29,410 |
| Niles | $36K | $17.34/hr | 1,360 |
| Traverse City | $36K | $17.28/hr | 1,650 |
| Kalamazoo-Portage | $36K | $17.27/hr | 1,690 |
| Lansing-East Lansing | $36K | $17.25/hr | 2,550 |
| Midland | $36K | $17.24/hr | 460 |
| Monroe | $36K | $17.16/hr | 620 |
| Jackson | $36K | $17.07/hr | 760 |
| Muskegon-Norton Shores | $35K | $17.04/hr | 950 |
| Bay City | $35K | $16.85/hr | 560 |
| Battle Creek | $32K | $15.32/hr | 720 |
Waiters and Waitresses salary range in Michigan
Waiters and Waitresses careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a waiters and waitresses make in Michigan?▼
The median waiters and waitresses salary in Michigan is $35,940 per year ($17.28/hr). This is 6% above the national median of $33,760. Salaries range from $22,010 to $63,800.
What are the requirements to become a waiters and waitresses in Michigan?▼
Waiters and Waitresses positions in Michigan typically require No formal educational credential. Michigan may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Michigan licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a waiters and waitresses afford to live in Michigan?▼
At the median salary of $35,940, a waiters and waitresses in Michigan would take home approximately $2,449/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 57.7% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for waiters and waitresses in Michigan?▼
The highest paying metro areas for waiters and waitresses in Michigan are Saginaw ($36,400), Ann Arbor ($36,360), Grand Rapids-Wyoming-Kentwood ($36,260). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Michigan have state income tax for waiters and waitresses?▼
Yes, Michigan has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.2%. On a $35,940 salary, this means roughly $1,527/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.