How to Become a Waiters and Waitresses in Tennessee
Waiters and Waitresses in Tennessee earn a median salary of $28,410/year, which is 16% below the national average. Tennessee has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a waiters and waitresses takes home approximately $660/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.
What a waiters and waitresses can afford in Tennessee
Becoming a waiters and waitresses in Tennessee
Meet education requirements
Waiters and Waitresses positions in Tennessee typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Tennessee. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many waiters and waitresses positions in Tennessee require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Tennessee licensure or certification
Tennessee may require specific licensing or professional certification for waiters and waitressess. Requirements vary by state — contact the Tennessee Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Tennessee
Tennessee employs 53,400 waiters and waitresses. The highest concentrations are in Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin and Knoxville.
Waiters and Waitresses salary by metro area in Tennessee
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin | $30K | $14.57/hr | 20,060 |
| Knoxville | $28K | $13.51/hr | 7,410 |
| Kingsport-Bristol | $28K | $13.51/hr | 1,940 |
| Morristown | $28K | $13.27/hr | 600 |
| Johnson City | $27K | $13.01/hr | 1,450 |
| Chattanooga | $26K | $12.6/hr | 4,920 |
| Clarksville | $26K | $12.49/hr | 1,760 |
| Memphis | $25K | $11.91/hr | 8,560 |
| Cleveland | $23K | $10.85/hr | 650 |
| Jackson | $22K | $10.71/hr | 930 |
Waiters and Waitresses salary range in Tennessee
Waiters and Waitresses careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a waiters and waitresses make in Tennessee?▼
The median waiters and waitresses salary in Tennessee is $28,410 per year ($13.66/hr). This is 16% below the national median of $33,760. Salaries range from $15,080 to $48,420.
What are the requirements to become a waiters and waitresses in Tennessee?▼
Waiters and Waitresses positions in Tennessee typically require No formal educational credential. Tennessee may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Tennessee licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a waiters and waitresses afford to live in Tennessee?▼
At the median salary of $28,410, a waiters and waitresses in Tennessee would take home approximately $2,072/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 68.1% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for waiters and waitresses in Tennessee?▼
The highest paying metro areas for waiters and waitresses in Tennessee are Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin ($30,300), Knoxville ($28,100), Kingsport-Bristol ($28,100). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Tennessee have state income tax for waiters and waitresses?▼
No, Tennessee does not have a state income tax. This means waiters and waitresses keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.