Food and Beverage Serving Worker Salary: $33,400 Median in 2025
The median salary for food and beverage serving workers in the United States is $33,400 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That's about $16 an hour. The bottom 10% earn $22,130 or less, while the top 10% bring home $49,490 or more.
How much Food and Beverage Serving Workers earn
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the mean annual wage for these workers is $35,730, with mean hourly pay at $17.18. Keep in mind that tips can significantly boost actual earnings, especially for waitstaff and bartenders.
The typical salary range stretches from $22,130 at the 10th percentile to $49,490 at the 90th. Factors like location, experience, and establishment type push pay up or down within that band.
- Median annual wage: $33,400
- Mean annual wage: $35,730
- Mean hourly wage: $17.18
- 10th percentile: $22,130
- 90th percentile: $49,490
Pay by state
BLS does not provide state-level data for this occupation in the most recent release. However, high-cost-of-living states like Hawaii, New York, and California typically pay above the national median, while southern and rural states tend to pay less. Check the BLS database for up-to-date state figures.
For exact state comparisons, visit the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics page.
How to become Food and Beverage Serving Worker
Most food and beverage serving jobs don't require a formal degree. The key is on-the-job training. Typically, workers start as bussers or hosts and move up to serving or bartending.
Many states require food handlers' permits or alcohol server training (e.g., TIPS or ServSafe). These can be completed online or in person, often for a small fee.
- No college degree required
- On-the-job training is standard
- Get a food handler's card or alcohol server certification if your state mandates it
- Gain experience as a host, busser, or in fast food to move into serving
Job outlook
BLS does not project growth for this occupation from 2024 to 2034. The market is large, with 7,175,250 workers employed. Turnover is high, so openings occur frequently as people cycle through the industry. Demand is steady but tied to the overall economy and consumer spending.
Frequently asked questions
What is the hourly wage for food and beverage serving workers?
The mean hourly wage is $17.18. Median hourly pay is about $16. However, tips can push actual earnings much higher, especially in full-service restaurants.
Do food and beverage serving workers need a degree?
No. Most positions require only a high school diploma or equivalent and provide on-the-job training. Some states require food safety or alcohol server certifications.
How many food and beverage serving workers are there?
The BLS reports 7,175,250 workers in this occupation as of the latest data. It's one of the largest occupations in the U.S.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Food and Beverage Serving Workers data.