Waiter and Waitress Salary in Arkansas
Based on 18K+ workers in Arkansas
Median Annual Salary (AR)
$24,680
$11.87/hr
vs National Average
$33,965
-27.3% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$23K – $44K
18K employed in Arkansas
The median Waiter and Waitress salary in Arkansas is $24,680 per year, which translates to approximately $12 per hour. This figure is notably lower than the national average, by about 27.3%. With 17,880 individuals employed in this role across the state, understanding compensation trends is vital for those in or entering the field.
Several factors can influence the actual earnings for a Waiter or Waitress in Arkansas. Experience level plays a significant role, with more seasoned professionals often commanding higher wages. The type of establishment, such as fine dining versus casual, and the specific geographic location within Arkansas can also impact the Waiter and Waitress salary in Arkansas due to variations in cost of living and customer volume.
Salary Distribution — Waiter and Waitress in Arkansas
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $23,040 |
| 25th percentile | $23,430 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $24,680 |
| 75th percentile | $30,450 |
| 90th percentile | $43,810 |
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 Arkansas 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 Arkansas vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Arkansas) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $24,680 |
| 2026 (projected) | $25,420 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Arkansas Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $24,680 | $33,965 |
| 2026 (projected) | $25,420 | $34,984 |
Waiter and Waitress Salary by Experience Level in Arkansas
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $23,430 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $24,680 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $30,450 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $43,810 |
Waiter and Waitress Salary in Other States
Related Waiter and Waitress Salaries in Arkansas
How other high-demand occupations in Arkansas compare to Waiter and Waitress ($24,680 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Waiter and Waitress | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Restaurant Cook in AR | $30,180 | +22.3% | $14.51/hr |
| Fast Food and Counter Worker in AR | $26,250 | +6.4% | $12.62/hr |
| Home Health and Personal Care Aide in AR | $27,660 | +12.1% | $13.30/hr |
| Cashier in AR | $27,670 | +12.1% | $13.30/hr |
| Retail Salesperson in AR | $29,270 | +18.6% | $14.07/hr |
| Tutor in AR | $30,810 | +24.8% | $14.81/hr |
| Nursing Assistant (CNA) in AR | $34,430 | +39.5% | $16.55/hr |
| Stocker and Order Filler in AR | $34,700 | +40.6% | $16.68/hr |
| Receptionist in AR | $34,840 | +41.2% | $16.75/hr |
| Rehabilitation Counselor in AR | $35,210 | +42.7% | $16.93/hr |
| Security Guard in AR | $35,770 | +44.9% | $17.20/hr |
| Administrative Assistant in AR | $37,630 | +52.5% | $18.09/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average annual salary for a Waiter and Waitress in Arkansas?
- The median annual salary for a Waiter and Waitress in Arkansas is $24,680. This means half of all individuals in this role earn more, and half earn less. The reported salary range is between $23,040 and $43,810 annually.
How does the Waiter and Waitress salary in Arkansas compare to the national average?
- The Waiter and Waitress salary in Arkansas is significantly lower than the national average, by approximately 27.3%. While the median in Arkansas is $24,680 per year, the national median is higher, reflecting regional economic differences.
What is the hourly wage for a Waiter and Waitress in Arkansas?
- On average, Waiters and Waitresses in Arkansas earn around $12 per hour. This hourly rate is derived from the median annual salary of $24,680 and can fluctuate based on tips and overtime.
Is there a wide range in potential earnings for Waiters and Waitresses in Arkansas?
- Yes, there is a considerable salary range for Waiters and Waitresses in Arkansas. While the median is $24,680 per year, earnings can fall anywhere from $23,040 on the lower end to as high as $43,810 for top earners.