How to Become a Waiters and Waitresses in North Carolina
Waiters and Waitresses in North Carolina earn a median salary of $28,460/year, which is 16% 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 $557/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.
What a waiters and waitresses can afford in North Carolina
Becoming a waiters and waitresses in North Carolina
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.
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.
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.
Find positions in North Carolina
North Carolina employs 74,110 waiters and waitresses. The highest concentrations are in Asheville and Durham-Chapel Hill.
Waiters and Waitresses salary by metro area in North Carolina
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Asheville | $30K | $14.34/hr | 4,380 |
| Durham-Chapel Hill | $30K | $14.32/hr | 3,650 |
| Raleigh-Cary | $29K | $14.16/hr | 11,110 |
| Pinehurst-Southern Pines | $29K | $14.04/hr | 1,020 |
| Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia | $29K | $13.94/hr | 20,100 |
| Greensboro-High Point | $29K | $13.92/hr | 4,870 |
| Jacksonville | $27K | $12.96/hr | 1,110 |
| Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton | $27K | $12.78/hr | 2,070 |
| Fayetteville | $26K | $12.5/hr | 1,900 |
| Rocky Mount | $25K | $12.06/hr | 600 |
| Goldsboro | $24K | $11.39/hr | 680 |
| Burlington | $23K | $11.26/hr | 1,190 |
| Winston-Salem | $23K | $10.86/hr | 3,970 |
| Greenville | $22K | $10.69/hr | 1,260 |
| Wilmington | $22K | $10.36/hr | 5,050 |
Waiters and Waitresses salary range in North Carolina
Waiters and Waitresses careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a waiters and waitresses make in North Carolina?▼
The median waiters and waitresses salary in North Carolina is $28,460 per year ($13.68/hr). This is 16% below the national median of $33,760. Salaries range from $17,210 to $58,390.
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 $28,460, a waiters and waitresses in North Carolina would take home approximately $1,969/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 71.7% 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 Asheville ($29,820), Durham-Chapel Hill ($29,780), Raleigh-Cary ($29,450). 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 $28,460 salary, this means roughly $1,281/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.