Waiter and Waitress Salary in Hawaii
Based on 14K+ workers in Hawaii
Median Annual Salary (HI)
$62,390
$30.00/hr
vs National Average
$33,965
+83.7% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$29K – $120K
14K employed in Hawaii
The median Waiter and Waitress salary in Hawaii is an impressive $62,390 per year, or $30 per hour. This figure significantly outpaces the national average, with Hawaii's compensation for these roles running 83.7% higher. With 14,090 individuals employed in this sector across the islands, the demand and earning potential are notable.
Several factors can influence a Waiter and Waitress salary in Hawaii. Experience plays a crucial role, with more seasoned professionals often earning at the higher end of the $29,120 to $119,870 range. The specific establishment, its location within Hawaii (e.g., tourist hotspots versus less populated areas), and the volume of business also contribute to the earning potential.
Salary Distribution — Waiter and Waitress in Hawaii
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $29,120 |
| 25th percentile | $30,090 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $62,390 |
| 75th percentile | $96,010 |
| 90th percentile | $119,870 |
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 Hawaii 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 Hawaii vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Hawaii) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $62,390 |
| 2026 (projected) | $64,262 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Hawaii Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $62,390 | $33,965 |
| 2026 (projected) | $64,262 | $34,984 |
Waiter and Waitress Salary by Experience Level in Hawaii
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $30,090 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $62,390 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $96,010 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $119,870 |
Waiter and Waitress Salary in Other States
Related Waiter and Waitress Salaries in Hawaii
How other high-demand occupations in Hawaii compare to Waiter and Waitress ($62,390 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Waiter and Waitress | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Restaurant Cook in HI | $45,420 | -27.2% | $21.84/hr |
| Fast Food and Counter Worker in HI | $35,250 | -43.5% | $16.95/hr |
| Financial Examiner in HI | $62,720 | +0.5% | $30.15/hr |
| Paralegal in HI | $62,840 | +0.7% | $30.21/hr |
| School Counselor in HI | $61,730 | -1.1% | $29.68/hr |
| Loan Officer in HI | $63,740 | +2.2% | $30.64/hr |
| Interior Designer in HI | $63,780 | +2.2% | $30.66/hr |
| Training and Development Specialist in HI | $60,960 | -2.3% | $29.31/hr |
| Public Relations Specialist in HI | $63,880 | +2.4% | $30.71/hr |
| Insurance Sales Agent in HI | $64,170 | +2.9% | $30.85/hr |
| Audio and Video Technician in HI | $60,150 | -3.6% | $28.92/hr |
| Mental Health Counselor in HI | $60,090 | -3.7% | $28.89/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average salary for a waiter or waitress in Hawaii?
- The median salary for a Waiter and Waitress in Hawaii is $62,390 annually, which breaks down to approximately $30 per hour. This is substantially higher than the national average.
What is the typical salary range for this role in Hawaii?
- The salary range for Waiter and Waitress positions in Hawaii typically falls between $29,120 and $119,870 per year. The median remains at $62,390 annually.
How does Hawaii's waiter and waitress pay compare to the rest of the US?
- Waiters and waitresses in Hawaii earn significantly more than their counterparts nationwide. Their salaries are approximately 83.7% higher than the national average.
How many people work as waiters and waitresses in Hawaii?
- There are approximately 14,090 individuals employed as Waiters and Waitresses across Hawaii. This indicates a substantial presence in the hospitality industry.