Waiter and Waitress Salary in Alabama
Based on 29K+ workers in Alabama
Median Annual Salary (AL)
$26,840
$12.90/hr
vs National Average
$33,965
-21.0% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$17K – $36K
29K employed in Alabama
The median Waiter and Waitress salary in Alabama is $26,840 per year, which translates to approximately $13 per hour. This figure is 21.0% lower than the national average for this profession, indicating a distinct compensation landscape within the state. Approximately 28,760 individuals are currently employed in this role across Alabama.
Several factors can influence the Waiter and Waitress salary in Alabama. Experience level plays a significant role, with more seasoned professionals often commanding higher wages. The specific type of establishment, such as fine dining versus casual, and its location within Alabama can also impact earning potential. Tips, which can fluctuate greatly, are a crucial component of overall compensation.
Salary Distribution — Waiter and Waitress in Alabama
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $16,550 |
| 25th percentile | $20,320 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $26,840 |
| 75th percentile | $28,900 |
| 90th percentile | $36,090 |
Top-Paying Industries for Waiter and Waitress (U.S.)
Which industries pay Waiter and Waitresss the most — nationwide figures (industry-level data is not available by state). Waiter and Waitresss in Alabama tend to follow these industry patterns.
| Industry (U.S.) | Median Salary | Employed (U.S.) |
|---|---|---|
| Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services | $79,660 | — |
| Administrative and Support Services | $37,090 | 16K |
| Educational Services | $36,680 | 780 |
| Manufacturing | $36,380 | 18K |
| Real Estate and Rental and Leasing | $36,090 | 6K |
Source: U.S. BLS OEWS National Industry-Specific estimates, May 2025. National figures (not state-specific).
Historical Salary Trend — Waiter and Waitress in Alabama vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Alabama) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $26,840 |
| 2026 (projected) | $27,645 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Alabama Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $26,840 | $33,965 |
| 2026 (projected) | $27,645 | $34,984 |
Waiter and Waitress Salary by Experience Level in Alabama
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $20,320 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $26,840 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $28,900 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $36,090 |
Waiter and Waitress Salary in Other States
Related Waiter and Waitress Salaries in Alabama
How other high-demand occupations in Alabama compare to Waiter and Waitress ($26,840 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Waiter and Waitress | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Restaurant Cook in AL | $32,180 | +19.9% | $15.47/hr |
| Fast Food and Counter Worker in AL | $23,700 | -11.7% | $11.39/hr |
| Home Health and Personal Care Aide in AL | $27,840 | +3.7% | $13.38/hr |
| Cashier in AL | $28,250 | +5.3% | $13.58/hr |
| Retail Salesperson in AL | $30,040 | +11.9% | $14.44/hr |
| Receptionist in AL | $32,590 | +21.4% | $15.67/hr |
| Security Guard in AL | $33,720 | +25.6% | $16.21/hr |
| Nursing Assistant (CNA) in AL | $34,140 | +27.2% | $16.41/hr |
| Stocker and Order Filler in AL | $34,290 | +27.8% | $16.49/hr |
| Medical Assistant in AL | $36,100 | +34.5% | $17.36/hr |
| Construction Laborer in AL | $36,900 | +37.5% | $17.74/hr |
| Customer Service Representative in AL | $38,400 | +43.1% | $18.46/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical salary range for a Waiter or Waitress in Alabama?
- The salary range for a Waiter or Waitress in Alabama typically falls between $16,550 and $36,090 annually. This broad range reflects variations in experience, location, and establishment type.
How does the average Waiter and Waitress salary in Alabama compare to the national average?
- The average Waiter and Waitress salary in Alabama is 21.0% lower than the national average. This means individuals in this role in Alabama earn significantly less on average than their counterparts in other states.
What is the hourly wage for a Waiter or Waitress in Alabama based on the median salary?
- Based on the median annual salary of $26,840, the approximate hourly wage for a Waiter or Waitress in Alabama is $13 per hour. This hourly rate doesn't include potential tips.
How many Waiters and Waitresses are employed in Alabama?
- There are approximately 28,760 individuals employed as Waiters and Waitresses in Alabama. This indicates a substantial presence of this occupation within the state's workforce.