Skip to content
AffordMap
Food Service · Oregon

How to Become a Waiters and Waitresses in Oregon

Waiters and Waitresses in Oregon earn a median salary of $33,930/year, which is 1% above the national average. Oregon has a state income tax of ~7.2%. After taxes and rent, a waiters and waitresses takes home approximately $826/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$34K
Median salary in Oregon
+1%
vs. national average
7.2%
State income tax
22,920
Employed in Oregon

What a waiters and waitresses can afford in Oregon

Gross annual salary$33,930
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 7.2% state tax)$2,238/mo
Median 2BR rent (Oregon)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home63.1% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$33,930/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$826/mo

Becoming a waiters and waitresses in Oregon

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain Oregon licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in Oregon

Oregon employs 22,920 waiters and waitresses. The highest concentrations are in Portland-Vancouver-Hillsboro and Salem.

Waiters and Waitresses salary by metro area in Oregon

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Portland-Vancouver-Hillsboro$36K$17.34/hr13,920
Salem$33K$16.09/hr1,790
Bend$33K$15.72/hr1,630
Grants Pass$33K$15.71/hr310
Medford$31K$14.96/hr1,130
Albany$31K$14.9/hr380
Eugene-Springfield$31K$14.78/hr1,770
Corvallis$30K$14.61/hr490

Waiters and Waitresses salary range in Oregon

10th percentile (entry)
$30K
25th percentile
$31K
Median (50th)
$34K
75th percentile
$49K
90th percentile (senior)
$66K
View jobs for Waiters and Waitresses
Currently hiring in Oregon
View →
More openings for Waiters and Waitresses
Currently hiring in Oregon
View →
Find accredited trade programs
Apprenticeship and certification paths
View →
Full waiters and waitresses salary breakdown in Oregon
Percentiles, trends, and comparisons
View →
Calculate take-home pay in Oregon
After federal + 7.2% state tax
Calculate →
Compare Oregon cost of living to other states
See where your salary goes further
Compare →

Waiters and Waitresses careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a waiters and waitresses make in Oregon?

The median waiters and waitresses salary in Oregon is $33,930 per year ($16.31/hr). This is 1% above the national median of $33,760. Salaries range from $29,840 to $65,550.

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

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

Can a waiters and waitresses afford to live in Oregon?

At the median salary of $33,930, a waiters and waitresses in Oregon would take home approximately $2,238/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 63.1% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

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

The highest paying metro areas for waiters and waitresses in Oregon are Portland-Vancouver-Hillsboro ($36,060), Salem ($33,470), Bend ($32,690). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Oregon have state income tax for waiters and waitresses?

Yes, Oregon has a state income tax rate of approximately 7.2%. On a $33,930 salary, this means roughly $2,444/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.