How to Become a Waiters and Waitresses in Washington
Waiters and Waitresses in Washington earn a median salary of $47,490/year, which is 41% above the national average. Washington has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a waiters and waitresses takes home approximately $1,938/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.
What a waiters and waitresses can afford in Washington
Becoming a waiters and waitresses in Washington
Meet education requirements
Waiters and Waitresses positions in Washington typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Washington. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many waiters and waitresses positions in Washington require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Washington licensure or certification
Washington may require specific licensing or professional certification for waiters and waitressess. Requirements vary by state — contact the Washington Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Washington
Washington employs 43,720 waiters and waitresses. The highest concentrations are in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue and Mount Vernon-Anacortes.
Waiters and Waitresses salary by metro area in Washington
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue | $49K | $23.44/hr | 25,860 |
| Mount Vernon-Anacortes | $48K | $22.86/hr | 780 |
| Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard | $47K | $22.63/hr | 1,330 |
| Kennewick-Richland | $46K | $22.3/hr | 1,400 |
| Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater | $46K | $22.25/hr | 1,380 |
| Bellingham | $46K | $22.17/hr | 1,380 |
| Wenatchee-East Wenatchee | $46K | $21.9/hr | 950 |
| Spokane-Spokane Valley | $46K | $21.89/hr | 3,000 |
| Longview-Kelso | $45K | $21.8/hr | 410 |
| Walla Walla | $45K | $21.44/hr | 320 |
| Yakima | $45K | $21.43/hr | 930 |
Waiters and Waitresses salary range in Washington
Waiters and Waitresses careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a waiters and waitresses make in Washington?▼
The median waiters and waitresses salary in Washington is $47,490 per year ($22.83/hr). This is 41% above the national median of $33,760. Salaries range from $34,910 to $91,730.
What are the requirements to become a waiters and waitresses in Washington?▼
Waiters and Waitresses positions in Washington typically require No formal educational credential. Washington may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Washington licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a waiters and waitresses afford to live in Washington?▼
At the median salary of $47,490, a waiters and waitresses in Washington would take home approximately $3,350/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 42.1% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for waiters and waitresses in Washington?▼
The highest paying metro areas for waiters and waitresses in Washington are Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue ($48,760), Mount Vernon-Anacortes ($47,560), Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard ($47,080). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Washington have state income tax for waiters and waitresses?▼
No, Washington 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.