Waiter and Waitress Salary in New Mexico
Based on 13K+ workers in New Mexico
Median Annual Salary (NM)
$36,920
$17.75/hr
vs National Average
$33,965
+8.7% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$27K – $69K
13K employed in New Mexico
The median Waiter and Waitress salary in New Mexico is $36,920 per year, or approximately $18 per hour. This figure is notable as it sits 8.7% above the national average for this occupation. With a significant number of individuals employed in this role across the state, understanding compensation is key for professionals.
Several factors can influence the actual income of a waiter or waitress in New Mexico. These include the specific establishment's size and clientele, the volume of tips earned, and the geographical location within the state. Experience level and additional responsibilities can also play a role in determining one's earning potential.
Salary Distribution — Waiter and Waitress in New Mexico
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $26,670 |
| 25th percentile | $28,570 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $36,920 |
| 75th percentile | $56,940 |
| 90th percentile | $69,410 |
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 New Mexico 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 New Mexico vs National
| Year | Median Salary (New Mexico) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $36,920 |
| 2026 (projected) | $38,028 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | New Mexico Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $36,920 | $33,965 |
| 2026 (projected) | $38,028 | $34,984 |
Waiter and Waitress Salary by Experience Level in New Mexico
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $28,570 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $36,920 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $56,940 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $69,410 |
Waiter and Waitress Salary in Other States
Related Waiter and Waitress Salaries in New Mexico
How other high-demand occupations in New Mexico compare to Waiter and Waitress ($36,920 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Waiter and Waitress | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Restaurant Cook in NM | $35,020 | -5.1% | $16.84/hr |
| Fast Food and Counter Worker in NM | $28,700 | -22.3% | $13.80/hr |
| Stocker and Order Filler in NM | $35,830 | -3.0% | $17.23/hr |
| Construction Laborer in NM | $38,400 | +4.0% | $18.46/hr |
| Receptionist in NM | $35,140 | -4.8% | $16.89/hr |
| Customer Service Representative in NM | $39,030 | +5.7% | $18.76/hr |
| Medical Assistant in NM | $39,230 | +6.3% | $18.86/hr |
| Nursing Assistant (CNA) in NM | $39,390 | +6.7% | $18.94/hr |
| Retail Salesperson in NM | $33,300 | -9.8% | $16.01/hr |
| Firefighter in NM | $41,590 | +12.6% | $20.00/hr |
| Security Guard in NM | $43,320 | +17.3% | $20.83/hr |
| Cashier in NM | $30,120 | -18.4% | $14.48/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical salary range for a Waiter or Waitress in New Mexico?
- In New Mexico, the salary range for Waiters and Waitresses typically falls between $26,670 and $69,410 annually. This broad range reflects variations in experience, tips, and location within the state.
How does the median Waiter and Waitress salary in New Mexico compare to the national average?
- The median annual salary for a Waiter and Waitress in New Mexico is $36,920, which is 8.7% higher than the national average. This suggests that, on average, workers in this role may earn more in New Mexico.
What is the hourly pay for a Waiter or Waitress in New Mexico?
- The median hourly pay for a Waiter or Waitress in New Mexico is around $18 per hour. This hourly rate is derived from the annual median salary of $36,920.
How many people are employed as Waiters and Waitresses in New Mexico?
- There are approximately 12,740 individuals employed as Waiters and Waitresses in New Mexico. This indicates a substantial job market for this profession within the state.