Waiters and Waitresses Jobs Pay in Kentucky, KY

Average Hourly Pay

$14.70
54.1%Below national average

Range: $14.00 - $15.40

Average Annual Pay

$30,576
54.1%Below national average

Range: $29,120 - $32,032

Entry-level
$25,990/per year
Top 10%
$32,032+/per year

Methodology: These figures are estimated from limited publicly available salary data.

Average Hourly Pay

$14.70
54.1%Below national average

Range: $14.00 - $15.40

How much does a Waiter and Waitress make in Kentucky, KY?

The average annual salary for a waiter and waitress in Kentucky, KY is $30,576 per year. If you prefer to look at it hourly, that works out to about $14.70 per hour. This is roughly equivalent to $588 per week or $2,548 per month, depending on hours worked.

Salary range for waiters and waitresses in Kentucky, KY

Min25%Median75%Max
25th
$26k
75th
$31k
Top 10%
$32k

Waiters and Waitresses salaries in Kentucky, KY can vary depending on experience, certifications, location within the state, and the type of work performed.

While some salaries can reach as high as $32,032, entry-level or lower-paid roles may start around $29,120 annually.

The difference between the lower and higher ends of the pay range for waiters and waitresses in Kentucky, KY — about $4,586 between the 25th and 75th percentiles — suggests there may be opportunities for waiters and waitresses to increase their earnings over time through additional training, certifications, and years of experience.

Top-paying cities for waiters and waitresses around Kentucky, KY

While the average salary for a waiters and waitresses in Kentucky, KY is $30,576 per year, some cities across the state offer higher earning potential.

Based on available salary data, 6 cities report average waiters and waitresses salaries above the statewide average.

Leading the list is Arizona, followed by Connecticut and California, which also rank among the top-paying locations for waiters and waitresses in the state.

Arizona stands out with waiters and waitresses earning around $19,459 more than the statewide average, or about 64% higher.

In Connecticut and California, average salaries are about $16,588 higher than the Kentucky, KY average, representing roughly a 54% increase.

Because several cities offer salaries above the state average, waiters and waitresses may find opportunities to increase their earnings by working in higher-paying areas within Kentucky, KY.

Factors such as local demand for skilled professionals, cost of living, and the type of work available can influence these differences.

Waiters and Waitresses pay in Kentucky, KY by experience level

Salaries for waiters and waitresses in Kentucky, KY often increase as professionals gain more experience, develop specialized skills, and take on greater responsibilities.

Entry Level0-2 years
Hourly Rate$12.49/hrRange: $14.00 – $12.49
Annual Rate$25,990Range: $29,120 $25,990

Entry-level waiters and waitresses (0-2 years) typically earn lower salaries while gaining practical experience and learning the basics of the role. At this stage, pay usually averages around $29,120 – $25,990 per year, depending on the employer, industry, and location.

Mid level3-6 years
Hourly Rate$14.70/hrRange: $12.49 – $16.90
Annual Rate$30,576Range: $25,990 $35,162

Mid-level waiters and waitresses (3-6 years) often see higher earnings as they build expertise and may take on more complex tasks or independent work. Many professionals in this stage earn approximately $25,990 – $35,162 annually.

Senior level7+ years
Hourly Rate$16.90/hrRange: $16.90 – $15.40
Annual Rate$35,162Range: $35,162 $32,032

Experienced waiters and waitresses (7+ years) generally earn the highest salaries. With advanced skills, leadership responsibilities, or specialized knowledge, pay can reach $35,162 – $32,032 per year.

Key factors that affect pay of waiters and waitresses in Kentucky, KY

Several factors can influence how much waiters and waitresses earn in Kentucky, KY, even when the average salary is around $30,576 per year.

Experience level is one of the biggest drivers of pay. Entry-level workers typically earn closer to $25,990, while experienced professionals can make $35,162+ annually.

Location within the region also plays a role. In higher-paying cities salaries can be higher than the regional average due to stronger demand and local economic conditions.

Industry and specialization can further impact earnings. Professionals working in specialized areas or large-scale projects often earn more than those in entry-level or general roles.

Together, these factors create a wide salary range for waiters and waitresses in Kentucky, KY, giving experienced professionals opportunities to increase their earnings over time.

Estimated take-home pay

Calculate your take-home pay and understand your tax withholdings.1

Try calculator

FAQs about Waiter and Waitress in Kentucky, KY

Do waiters and waitresses make good money in Kentucky, KY?

Whether or not you think waiters and waitresses pay well might depend on your specific situation and needs. The average salary for waiters and waitresses in Kentucky, KY is about $30,576 per year, or roughly $14.70 per hour. Entry-level professionals typically earn around $25,990 annually, while experienced workers can earn $35,162 or more per year depending on experience and specialization.

Can waiters and waitresses make $40,000 a year in Kentucky, KY?

Yes, some can. While the average salary is around $30,576, top-earning waiters and waitresses in Kentucky, KY can make about $32,032 or more annually. Professionals with advanced certifications, specialized skills, or leadership roles are more likely to reach this level of pay.

Is $30,000 a good salary for a waiter and waitress in Kentucky, KY?

A salary of $30,000 is close to the average for waiters and waitresses in Kentucky, KY. Most professionals in this role earn between $25,990 and $35,162 per year, depending on experience, industry, and location.

How much does a starting waiter and waitress make in Kentucky, KY?

Entry-level waiters and waitresses in Kentucky, KY typically earn around $12.49/hr, which equals roughly $25,990 per year. Starting salaries may vary based on training, certifications, and the employer.

How much does a licensed or certified waiter and waitress make in Kentucky, KY?

Licensed or certified waiters and waitresses in Kentucky, KY earn about $30,576 per year on average, with typical salaries ranging between $25,990 and $35,162 annually. Highly experienced professionals can earn $32,032 or more.

What is the hourly pay for waiters and waitresses in Kentucky, KY?

The average hourly pay for waiters and waitresses in Kentucky, KY is about $14.70 per hour. Entry-level workers may earn closer to $12.49, while experienced professionals can earn $16.90+ per hour.

What is the salary range for waiters and waitresses in Kentucky, KY?

Most waiters and waitresses in Kentucky, KY earn between $25,990 and $35,162 per year, while the top 10% earn more than $32,032 annually.

How fast does pay increase for waiters and waitresses?

Pay for waiters and waitresses typically increases with experience. Many professionals see earnings grow from around $25,990 early in their careers to $35,162+ after several years of experience.
Apple App Store4.8 ⭐️ on App 352.5K reviews
Google Play Store4.7 ⭐️ on Google 275K reviews
Trusted by professionals

19M+ people use EarnIn to access their wages early

Phone mockup showing EarnIn app
Waiters and Waitresses Pay in Kentucky, Kentucky | EarnIn