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Food Service · Minnesota

How to Become a Waiters and Waitresses in Minnesota

Waiters and Waitresses in Minnesota earn a median salary of $24,470/year, which is 28% below the national average. Minnesota has a state income tax of ~2.2%. After taxes and rent, a waiters and waitresses takes home approximately $348/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$24K
Median salary in Minnesota
-28%
vs. national average
2.2%
State income tax
38,540
Employed in Minnesota

What a waiters and waitresses can afford in Minnesota

Gross annual salary$24,470
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 2.2% state tax)$1,760/mo
Median 2BR rent (Minnesota)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home80.2% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$24,470/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$348/mo

Becoming a waiters and waitresses in Minnesota

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain Minnesota licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in Minnesota

Minnesota employs 38,540 waiters and waitresses. The highest concentrations are in Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington and Rochester.

Waiters and Waitresses salary by metro area in Minnesota

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington$26K$12.32/hr26,660
Rochester$24K$11.34/hr1,700
St. Cloud$23K$11.06/hr1,160
Mankato$23K$11.01/hr790
Duluth$23K$10.85/hr2,130

Waiters and Waitresses salary range in Minnesota

10th percentile (entry)
$23K
25th percentile
$23K
Median (50th)
$24K
75th percentile
$29K
90th percentile (senior)
$35K
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Waiters and Waitresses careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a waiters and waitresses make in Minnesota?

The median waiters and waitresses salary in Minnesota is $24,470 per year ($11.77/hr). This is 28% below the national median of $33,760. Salaries range from $22,570 to $35,120.

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

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

Can a waiters and waitresses afford to live in Minnesota?

At the median salary of $24,470, a waiters and waitresses in Minnesota would take home approximately $1,760/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 80.2% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

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

The highest paying metro areas for waiters and waitresses in Minnesota are Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington ($25,620), Rochester ($23,580), St. Cloud ($22,990). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Minnesota have state income tax for waiters and waitresses?

Yes, Minnesota has a state income tax rate of approximately 2.2%. On a $24,470 salary, this means roughly $529/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.