Waiters and Waitresses Salary in North Carolina
Waiters and Waitresses in North Carolina earn a median of $32,150 a year, −9% compared with the U.S. median.
Updated October 2026 · Data: BLS OEWS May 2025 · How we match careers
- Median pay
- $32,150
- vs. U.S. median
- −9% ($35,230)
- Rank among states
- 27 of 51
- Jobs in the state
- 71,940
Pay range in North Carolina
The lowest-paid 10% earn under $17,140; the top 10% earn over $62,670. Nationally the range is $18,100 to $64,720.
States ranked near North Carolina
Similar jobs in North Carolina
- Hosts and Hostesses, Restaurant, Lounge, and Coffee Shop$28,320 median in North Carolina
- Ushers, Lobby Attendants, and Ticket Takers$30,260 median in North Carolina
- Bartenders$36,470 median in North Carolina
- Fast Food and Counter Workers$28,570 median in North Carolina
- Food Servers, Nonrestaurant$31,460 median in North Carolina
- Dining Room and Cafeteria Attendants and Bartender Helpers$27,560 median in North Carolina
Waiters and Waitresses pay in North Carolina
How much do waiters and waitresses make in North Carolina?
The median is $32,150 a year. The lowest-paid 10% earn under $17,140 and the top 10% earn over $62,670. BLS OEWS May 2025.
Is North Carolina a good state for waiters and waitresses?
On pay alone it ranks 27 of 51 (−9% vs. the national median of $35,230). Living costs are not included.