Waiter and Waitress Salary in Wisconsin
Based on 36K+ workers in Wisconsin
Median Annual Salary (WI)
$29,670
$14.26/hr
vs National Average
$33,965
-12.6% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$17K – $62K
36K employed in Wisconsin
The median Waiter and Waitress salary in Wisconsin is $29,670 per year, which averages out to $14 per hour. This figure is 12.6% lower than the national average for this profession. Currently, there are approximately 36,220 individuals employed in these roles across the state, reflecting a significant presence in the hospitality sector.
Several factors influence the specific Waiter and Waitress salary in Wisconsin. Experience level plays a crucial role, with entry-level positions typically paying less than those held by seasoned professionals. Location within Wisconsin, tips received from customers, and the type of establishment (e.g., fine dining vs. casual) also significantly impact earning potential, pushing salaries beyond the median.
Salary Distribution — Waiter and Waitress in Wisconsin
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $16,830 |
| 25th percentile | $21,000 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $29,670 |
| 75th percentile | $43,150 |
| 90th percentile | $61,770 |
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 Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Wisconsin) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $29,670 |
| 2026 (projected) | $30,560 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Wisconsin Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $29,670 | $33,965 |
| 2026 (projected) | $30,560 | $34,984 |
Waiter and Waitress Salary by Experience Level in Wisconsin
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $21,000 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $29,670 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $43,150 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $61,770 |
Waiter and Waitress Salary in Other States
Related Waiter and Waitress Salaries in Wisconsin
How other high-demand occupations in Wisconsin compare to Waiter and Waitress ($29,670 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Waiter and Waitress | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Restaurant Cook in WI | $36,550 | +23.2% | $17.57/hr |
| Fast Food and Counter Worker in WI | $28,600 | -3.6% | $13.75/hr |
| Cashier in WI | $30,880 | +4.1% | $14.85/hr |
| Retail Salesperson in WI | $34,480 | +16.2% | $16.58/hr |
| Stocker and Order Filler in WI | $35,000 | +18.0% | $16.83/hr |
| Home Health and Personal Care Aide in WI | $36,340 | +22.5% | $17.47/hr |
| Security Guard in WI | $37,440 | +26.2% | $18.00/hr |
| Tutor in WI | $37,820 | +27.5% | $18.18/hr |
| Air Traffic Controller in WI | $39,400 | +32.8% | $18.94/hr |
| Receptionist in WI | $41,150 | +38.7% | $19.78/hr |
| Nursing Assistant (CNA) in WI | $45,130 | +52.1% | $21.70/hr |
| Pharmacy Technician in WI | $45,970 | +54.9% | $22.10/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average annual salary for a Waiter or Waitress in Wisconsin?
- The median Waiter and Waitress salary in Wisconsin is $29,670 per year. This median reflects the midpoint of all salaries, with half earning more and half earning less.
What is the typical hourly wage for a Waiter or Waitress in Wisconsin?
- On an hourly basis, the median Waiter and Waitress salary in Wisconsin is $14. This accounts for both base pay and potential tips, though the actual hourly earnings can fluctuate significantly.
What is the salary range for Waiters and Waitresses in Wisconsin?
- The salary range for Waiter and Waitress roles in Wisconsin spans from $16,830 at the lower end to $61,770 at the higher end. This wide range highlights the diversity of earning potential within the profession.
How does the Waiter and Waitress salary in Wisconsin compare to the national average?
- The Waiter and Waitress salary in Wisconsin is 12.6% lower than the national average. While the median Wisconsin salary is $29,670, the national median is higher, indicating a general trend of lower pay for these positions in the state.