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Food Service · Ohio

How to Become a Waiters and Waitresses in Ohio

Waiters and Waitresses in Ohio earn a median salary of $36,030/year, which is 7% above the national average. Ohio has a state income tax of ~0.8%. After taxes and rent, a waiters and waitresses takes home approximately $1,147/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$36K
Median salary in Ohio
+7%
vs. national average
0.8%
State income tax
76,260
Employed in Ohio

What a waiters and waitresses can afford in Ohio

Gross annual salary$36,030
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 0.8% state tax)$2,559/mo
Median 2BR rent (Ohio)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home55.2% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$36,030/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$1,147/mo

Becoming a waiters and waitresses in Ohio

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain Ohio licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in Ohio

Ohio employs 76,260 waiters and waitresses. The highest concentrations are in Columbus and Dayton-Kettering-Beavercreek.

Waiters and Waitresses salary by metro area in Ohio

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Columbus$37K$17.9/hr15,130
Dayton-Kettering-Beavercreek$36K$17.5/hr4,550
Cincinnati$36K$17.45/hr18,300
Toledo$36K$17.42/hr4,640
Akron$36K$17.3/hr4,460
Cleveland$36K$17.17/hr14,410
Canton-Massillon$35K$17.06/hr2,630
Lima$35K$17.06/hr720
Springfield$35K$16.99/hr580
Mansfield$35K$16.82/hr850
Youngstown-Warren$35K$16.61/hr2,500
Sandusky$34K$16.22/hr1,400

Waiters and Waitresses salary range in Ohio

10th percentile (entry)
$23K
25th percentile
$28K
Median (50th)
$36K
75th percentile
$47K
90th percentile (senior)
$60K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a waiters and waitresses make in Ohio?

The median waiters and waitresses salary in Ohio is $36,030 per year ($17.32/hr). This is 7% above the national median of $33,760. Salaries range from $22,860 to $60,120.

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

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

Can a waiters and waitresses afford to live in Ohio?

At the median salary of $36,030, a waiters and waitresses in Ohio would take home approximately $2,559/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 55.2% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

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

The highest paying metro areas for waiters and waitresses in Ohio are Columbus ($37,230), Dayton-Kettering-Beavercreek ($36,400), Cincinnati ($36,290). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Ohio have state income tax for waiters and waitresses?

Yes, Ohio has a state income tax rate of approximately 0.8%. On a $36,030 salary, this means roughly $279/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.