How to Become a Waiters and Waitresses in Wisconsin
Waiters and Waitresses in Wisconsin earn a median salary of $29,050/year, which is 14% below the national average. Wisconsin has a state income tax of ~2.0%. After taxes and rent, a waiters and waitresses takes home approximately $655/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.
What a waiters and waitresses can afford in Wisconsin
Becoming a waiters and waitresses in Wisconsin
Meet education requirements
Waiters and Waitresses positions in Wisconsin typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Wisconsin. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many waiters and waitresses positions in Wisconsin require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Wisconsin licensure or certification
Wisconsin may require specific licensing or professional certification for waiters and waitressess. Requirements vary by state — contact the Wisconsin Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Wisconsin
Wisconsin employs 39,510 waiters and waitresses. The highest concentrations are in Madison and Milwaukee-Waukesha.
Waiters and Waitresses salary by metro area in Wisconsin
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Madison | $31K | $14.67/hr | 5,330 |
| Milwaukee-Waukesha | $30K | $14.38/hr | 11,170 |
| Appleton | $29K | $14/hr | 1,730 |
| Sheboygan | $29K | $13.98/hr | 760 |
| Wausau | $29K | $13.95/hr | 860 |
| La Crosse-Onalaska | $29K | $13.92/hr | 1,410 |
| Oshkosh-Neenah | $29K | $13.92/hr | 1,110 |
| Kenosha | $29K | $13.87/hr | 1,090 |
| Green Bay | $29K | $13.86/hr | 2,600 |
| Racine-Mount Pleasant | $29K | $13.77/hr | 990 |
| Eau Claire | $29K | $13.77/hr | 1,150 |
| Fond du Lac | $28K | $13.67/hr | 510 |
| Janesville-Beloit | $28K | $13.6/hr | 970 |
Waiters and Waitresses salary range in Wisconsin
Waiters and Waitresses careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a waiters and waitresses make in Wisconsin?▼
The median waiters and waitresses salary in Wisconsin is $29,050 per year ($13.97/hr). This is 14% below the national median of $33,760. Salaries range from $17,100 to $48,120.
What are the requirements to become a waiters and waitresses in Wisconsin?▼
Waiters and Waitresses positions in Wisconsin typically require No formal educational credential. Wisconsin may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Wisconsin licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a waiters and waitresses afford to live in Wisconsin?▼
At the median salary of $29,050, a waiters and waitresses in Wisconsin would take home approximately $2,067/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 68.3% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for waiters and waitresses in Wisconsin?▼
The highest paying metro areas for waiters and waitresses in Wisconsin are Madison ($30,520), Milwaukee-Waukesha ($29,910), Appleton ($29,130). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Wisconsin have state income tax for waiters and waitresses?▼
Yes, Wisconsin has a state income tax rate of approximately 2.0%. On a $29,050 salary, this means roughly $577/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.