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Food Service · North Carolina

How to Become a Waiters and Waitresses in North Carolina

Waiters and Waitresses in North Carolina earn a median salary of $32,150/year, which is 9% below the national average. North Carolina has a state income tax of ~4.5%. After taxes and rent, a waiters and waitresses takes home approximately $714/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$32K
Median salary in North Carolina
-9%
vs. national average
4.5%
State income tax
71,940
Employed in North Carolina

What a waiters and waitresses can afford in North Carolina

Gross annual salary$32,150
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.5% state tax)$2,202/mo
Median 2BR rent (North Carolina)-$1,488/mo
Rent as % of take-home67.6% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$32,150/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$714/mo

Becoming a waiters and waitresses in North Carolina

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain North Carolina licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in North Carolina

North Carolina employs 71,940 waiters and waitresses. The highest concentrations are in Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia and Durham-Chapel Hill.

Waiters and Waitresses salary by metro area in North Carolina

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia$36K$17.51/hr19,990
Durham-Chapel Hill$35K$16.94/hr3,560
Raleigh-Cary$35K$16.76/hr10,290
Asheville$34K$16.56/hr3,250
Pinehurst-Southern Pines$34K$16.38/hr1,040
Wilmington$31K$14.72/hr4,920
Greensboro-High Point$30K$14.45/hr5,210
Winston-Salem$30K$14.21/hr3,940
Fayetteville$30K$14.19/hr1,980
Burlington$29K$14.1/hr1,100
Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton$29K$14.09/hr2,000
Jacksonville$29K$13.88/hr1,140
Greenville$29K$13.79/hr1,310
Goldsboro$29K$13.72/hr640
Rocky Mount$27K$12.93/hr580

Waiters and Waitresses salary range in North Carolina

10th percentile (entry)
$17K
25th percentile
$21K
Median (50th)
$32K
75th percentile
$49K
90th percentile (senior)
$63K
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Full waiters and waitresses salary breakdown in North Carolina
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a waiters and waitresses make in North Carolina?

The median waiters and waitresses salary in North Carolina is $32,150 per year ($15.46/hr). This is 9% below the national median of $35,230. Salaries range from $17,140 to $62,670.

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

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

Can a waiters and waitresses afford to live in North Carolina?

At the median salary of $32,150, a waiters and waitresses in North Carolina would take home approximately $2,202/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,488/month, that's 67.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for waiters and waitresses in North Carolina?

The highest paying metro areas for waiters and waitresses in North Carolina are Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia ($36,430), Durham-Chapel Hill ($35,230), Raleigh-Cary ($34,860). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros, a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does North Carolina have state income tax for waiters and waitresses?

Yes, North Carolina has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.5%. On a $32,150 salary, this means roughly $1,447/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.