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Food Service · Mississippi

How to Become a Waiters and Waitresses in Mississippi

Waiters and Waitresses in Mississippi earn a median salary of $20,340/year, which is 40% below the national average. Mississippi has a state income tax of ~4.7%. After taxes and rent, a waiters and waitresses takes home approximately $29/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$20K
Median salary in Mississippi
-40%
vs. national average
4.7%
State income tax
16,160
Employed in Mississippi

What a waiters and waitresses can afford in Mississippi

Gross annual salary$20,340
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.7% state tax)$1,441/mo
Median 2BR rent (Mississippi)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home98% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$20,340/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$29/mo

Becoming a waiters and waitresses in Mississippi

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain Mississippi licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in Mississippi

Mississippi employs 16,160 waiters and waitresses. The highest concentrations are in Jackson and Gulfport-Biloxi.

Waiters and Waitresses salary by metro area in Mississippi

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Jackson$21K$10.04/hr3,020
Gulfport-Biloxi$21K$9.88/hr4,130
Hattiesburg$18K$8.89/hr1,010

Waiters and Waitresses salary range in Mississippi

10th percentile (entry)
$16K
25th percentile
$17K
Median (50th)
$20K
75th percentile
$29K
90th percentile (senior)
$38K
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Waiters and Waitresses careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a waiters and waitresses make in Mississippi?

The median waiters and waitresses salary in Mississippi is $20,340 per year ($9.78/hr). This is 40% below the national median of $33,760. Salaries range from $15,930 to $37,740.

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

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

Can a waiters and waitresses afford to live in Mississippi?

At the median salary of $20,340, a waiters and waitresses in Mississippi would take home approximately $1,441/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 98% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

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

The highest paying metro areas for waiters and waitresses in Mississippi are Jackson ($20,880), Gulfport-Biloxi ($20,540), Hattiesburg ($18,480). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Mississippi have state income tax for waiters and waitresses?

Yes, Mississippi has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.7%. On a $20,340 salary, this means roughly $956/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.