Waiter and Waitress Salary in Michigan
Based on 65K+ workers in Michigan
Median Annual Salary (MI)
$37,760
$18.15/hr
vs National Average
$33,965
+11.2% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$26K – $64K
65K employed in Michigan
The median Waiter and Waitress salary in Michigan is $37,760 per year, which equates to approximately $18 per hour. This figure is notably higher than the national average, sitting at 11.2% above it. Currently, there are an estimated 65,090 individuals employed in this role across the state.
Several factors can influence the Waiter and Waitress salary in Michigan. Experience level plays a significant role, with more seasoned professionals often commanding higher earnings. The specific establishment, its size, and location within Michigan can also impact compensation, as can the volume and type of tips received.
Salary Distribution — Waiter and Waitress in Michigan
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $25,960 |
| 25th percentile | $29,350 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $37,760 |
| 75th percentile | $58,550 |
| 90th percentile | $64,350 |
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 Michigan 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 Michigan vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Michigan) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $37,760 |
| 2026 (projected) | $38,893 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Michigan Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $37,760 | $33,965 |
| 2026 (projected) | $38,893 | $34,984 |
Waiter and Waitress Salary by Experience Level in Michigan
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $29,350 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $37,760 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $58,550 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $64,350 |
Waiter and Waitress Salary in Other States
Related Waiter and Waitress Salaries in Michigan
How other high-demand occupations in Michigan compare to Waiter and Waitress ($37,760 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Waiter and Waitress | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Restaurant Cook in MI | $36,980 | -2.1% | $17.78/hr |
| Fast Food and Counter Worker in MI | $28,930 | -23.4% | $13.91/hr |
| Receptionist in MI | $37,470 | -0.8% | $18.01/hr |
| Security Guard in MI | $37,080 | -1.8% | $17.83/hr |
| Nursing Assistant (CNA) in MI | $39,570 | +4.8% | $19.02/hr |
| Stocker and Order Filler in MI | $35,930 | -4.8% | $17.27/hr |
| Medical Assistant in MI | $39,870 | +5.6% | $19.17/hr |
| Tutor in MI | $40,350 | +6.9% | $19.40/hr |
| Home Health and Personal Care Aide in MI | $35,000 | -7.3% | $16.83/hr |
| Retail Salesperson in MI | $34,640 | -8.3% | $16.65/hr |
| Customer Service Representative in MI | $43,950 | +16.4% | $21.13/hr |
| Pharmacy Technician in MI | $44,340 | +17.4% | $21.32/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average salary for a Waiter or Waitress in Michigan?
- The median Waiter and Waitress salary in Michigan is $37,760 annually, or about $18 per hour. This is 11.2% higher than the national average.
What is the salary range for Waiters and Waitresses in Michigan?
- In Michigan, the salary range for Waiters and Waitresses typically falls between $25,960 and $64,350 per year. The median falls right in the middle of this spectrum at $37,760.
How many Waiters and Waitresses are employed in Michigan?
- There are approximately 65,090 individuals employed as Waiters and Waitresses in Michigan. This represents a significant portion of the service industry workforce in the state.
Is the Waiter and Waitress salary in Michigan competitive?
- Yes, the Waiter and Waitress salary in Michigan is competitive, being 11.2% higher than the national average. The median annual income of $37,760 and a wide range indicate potential for good earnings.