Waiter and Waitress Salary in Virginia
Based on 59K+ workers in Virginia
Median Annual Salary (VA)
$44,760
$21.52/hr
vs National Average
$33,965
+31.8% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$28K – $74K
59K employed in Virginia
The median Waiter and Waitress salary in Virginia is $44,760 annually, which translates to about $22 per hour. This figure is significantly higher than the national average, standing at 31.8% above it. Virginia currently employs approximately 59,370 individuals in this profession.
Several factors can influence the Waiter and Waitress salary in Virginia. These include the specific establishment's size and type, the geographic location within the state (e.g., metropolitan areas versus rural regions), and the individual's experience level. Tips also play a substantial role in overall compensation for these roles.
Salary Distribution — Waiter and Waitress in Virginia
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $28,270 |
| 25th percentile | $32,760 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $44,760 |
| 75th percentile | $56,430 |
| 90th percentile | $74,130 |
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 Virginia 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 Virginia vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Virginia) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $44,760 |
| 2026 (projected) | $46,103 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Virginia Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $44,760 | $33,965 |
| 2026 (projected) | $46,103 | $34,984 |
Waiter and Waitress Salary by Experience Level in Virginia
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $32,760 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $44,760 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $56,430 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $74,130 |
Waiter and Waitress Salary in Other States
Related Waiter and Waitress Salaries in Virginia
How other high-demand occupations in Virginia compare to Waiter and Waitress ($44,760 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Waiter and Waitress | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Restaurant Cook in VA | $36,750 | -17.9% | $17.67/hr |
| Fast Food and Counter Worker in VA | $30,110 | -32.7% | $14.48/hr |
| Medical Assistant in VA | $44,740 | -0.0% | $21.51/hr |
| Pharmacy Technician in VA | $44,610 | -0.3% | $21.45/hr |
| Security Guard in VA | $43,640 | -2.5% | $20.98/hr |
| Construction Laborer in VA | $43,560 | -2.7% | $20.94/hr |
| Nursing Assistant (CNA) in VA | $43,200 | -3.5% | $20.77/hr |
| Dental Assistant in VA | $46,670 | +4.3% | $22.44/hr |
| Customer Service Representative in VA | $42,730 | -4.5% | $20.54/hr |
| Rehabilitation Counselor in VA | $47,530 | +6.2% | $22.85/hr |
| Administrative Assistant in VA | $47,620 | +6.4% | $22.89/hr |
| Tutor in VA | $49,160 | +9.8% | $23.63/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical salary range for a Waiter or Waitress in Virginia?
- In Virginia, the salary range for Waiters and Waitresses typically falls between $28,270 and $74,130 per year. This broad range reflects variations in experience, location, and establishment type.
How does the average Waiter and Waitress salary in Virginia compare to the national average?
- Waiters and Waitresses in Virginia earn a median salary of $44,760 annually, which is 31.8% higher than the national average. This indicates a strong earning potential for this role within the state.
What is the hourly wage for a Waiter or Waitress in Virginia?
- The median hourly wage for a Waiter or Waitress in Virginia is approximately $22. This hourly rate is derived from the annual median salary and can vary based on tips and other compensation factors.
How many people work as Waiters and Waitresses in Virginia?
- Virginia has a substantial workforce in the food service industry, with an estimated 59,370 individuals employed as Waiters and Waitresses. This number highlights the demand for these roles across the state.