Waiter and Waitress Salary in South Dakota
Based on 7K+ workers in South Dakota
Median Annual Salary (SD)
$28,990
$13.94/hr
vs National Average
$33,965
-14.6% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$27K – $37K
7K employed in South Dakota
The median Waiter and Waitress salary in South Dakota is $28,990 per year, which translates to approximately $14 per hour. This figure is notably lower than the national average, coming in at 14.6% less. There are an estimated 7,350 individuals employed in this role across the state.
Several factors can influence the specific Waiter and Waitress salary in South Dakota. Experience level plays a significant role, with more seasoned professionals often earning more than those just starting out. The type of establishment, such as fine dining versus casual eateries, and its location within the state can also impact hourly wages and tips, ultimately affecting total annual earnings.
Salary Distribution — Waiter and Waitress in South Dakota
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $27,030 |
| 25th percentile | $27,910 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $28,990 |
| 75th percentile | $30,640 |
| 90th percentile | $37,290 |
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 South Dakota 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 South Dakota vs National
| Year | Median Salary (South Dakota) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $28,990 |
| 2026 (projected) | $29,860 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | South Dakota Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $28,990 | $33,965 |
| 2026 (projected) | $29,860 | $34,984 |
Waiter and Waitress Salary by Experience Level in South Dakota
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $27,910 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $28,990 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $30,640 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $37,290 |
Waiter and Waitress Salary in Other States
Related Waiter and Waitress Salaries in South Dakota
How other high-demand occupations in South Dakota compare to Waiter and Waitress ($28,990 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Waiter and Waitress | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Restaurant Cook in SD | $36,220 | +24.9% | $17.41/hr |
| Fast Food and Counter Worker in SD | $29,490 | +1.7% | $14.18/hr |
| Cashier in SD | $29,780 | +2.7% | $14.32/hr |
| Retail Salesperson in SD | $34,370 | +18.6% | $16.52/hr |
| Security Guard in SD | $37,150 | +28.1% | $17.86/hr |
| Stocker and Order Filler in SD | $37,650 | +29.9% | $18.10/hr |
| Home Health and Personal Care Aide in SD | $37,740 | +30.2% | $18.14/hr |
| Air Traffic Controller in SD | $37,860 | +30.6% | $18.20/hr |
| Receptionist in SD | $38,280 | +32.0% | $18.40/hr |
| Nursing Assistant (CNA) in SD | $38,800 | +33.8% | $18.65/hr |
| Customer Service Representative in SD | $40,650 | +40.2% | $19.54/hr |
| Administrative Assistant in SD | $41,700 | +43.8% | $20.05/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average salary for a waiter or waitress in South Dakota?
- The median salary for a Waiter and Waitress in South Dakota is $28,990 annually, or around $14 per hour. This median reflects a typical earning for individuals in this profession within the state.
What is the salary range for waitstaff in South Dakota?
- The salary range for Waiter and Waitress positions in South Dakota generally falls between $27,030 and $37,290 per year. This range indicates the potential for earnings above and below the median figure.
How does the South Dakota waiter and waitress salary compare to the national average?
- Waiters and waitresses in South Dakota earn approximately 14.6% less than the national average. This means the median South Dakota salary of $28,990 is considerably lower than the national median.
How many people work as waiters and waitresses in South Dakota?
- There are an estimated 7,350 individuals employed as Waiters and Waitresses throughout South Dakota. This number represents the total workforce in this service industry role within the state.