Waiters and waitresses

๐Ÿค Save Career

Waiters and waitresses play a vital role in the US economy, with 2.3 million professionals employed nationwide. The median annual salary is $33,760, with projected growth of -1% through 2034 (Decline).

$33,760
Median Salary
-1%
Growth Rate
30%
AI Risk
No Degree Required
Education

๐Ÿ’ฐ Salary Range

$20,256$33,760 median$54,016

๐Ÿ“ˆ Growth Outlook

โžก๏ธ Stable โ€” -1% projected growth

๐Ÿค– AI Automation Risk

Low

AI may assist but is unlikely to replace this role.

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AI Impact Deep Dive: Waiters and waitresses

๐Ÿ”ฌ AI Impact Deep Dive: Waiters and waitresses

AI Collaboration Score

5% โ€” Low

Measures how much AI tools are used as collaborative assistants in this role (0% = no AI involvement, 100% = AI-intensive workflow)

๐Ÿ”ฎ Future Outlook

While AI and automation are increasingly handling digital tasks like order-taking and payments via kiosks or mobile apps, the core of the job remains physical and interpersonal. The physical requirements of carrying trays, clearing tables, and providing real-time human hospitality in a dynamic environment create a significant barrier to full AI replacement.

Analysis based on Microsoft "Working with AI" research (2025), O*NET task data v30.2, and Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational projections. Updated March 2026.

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A Day in the Life

As a waiters and waitresse, your day involves a mix of specialized tasks that require both expertise and adaptability. You work with colleagues, clients, or patients depending on the setting, applying your training to solve real-world problems.
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Career Outlook & Getting Started

Why It's Promising

With -1% projected growth and a median salary of $33,760, this career offers stable prospects. The large employment base (2.3M jobs) means abundant opportunities across the country.

How to Get Started

Entry typically requires no formal educational credential. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field.

Who Is It For

Anyone interested in waiters and waitresses who wants to build a rewarding career in this field.

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Majors & Top Schools

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Waiters and waitresses make in 2026?โ–ผ

The median salary for a Waiters and waitresses is $33,760 per year. Entry-level positions start around $20,256, while experienced professionals can earn up to $54,016 depending on location, specialization, and industry.

How do I become a Waiters and waitresses?โ–ผ

Entry typically requires no formal educational credential. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field. The typical education requirement is no degree required.

What degree do you need to be a Waiters and waitresses?โ–ผ

Most Waiters and waitresses positions require no degree required. However, some professionals enter the field through alternative paths like bootcamps, certifications, or self-directed learning.

What AP courses should I take to become a Waiters and waitresses?โ–ผ

Check PathLeap for personalized AP course recommendations for Waiters and waitresses. The right AP courses depend on your target college major and career specialization.

What does a Waiters and waitresses do on a daily basis?โ–ผ

As a waiters and waitresse, your day involves a mix of specialized tasks that require both expertise and adaptability. You work with colleagues, clients, or patients depending on the setting, applying your training to solve real-world problems.

Is Waiters and waitresses a good career in 2026?โ–ผ

With -1% projected growth and a median salary of $33,760, this career offers stable prospects. The large employment base (2.3M jobs) means abundant opportunities across the country. Job growth is projected at -1%, which is declining. The median salary of $33,760 also positions it competitively in the job market.

Will AI replace Waiters and waitressess?โ–ผ

Waiters and waitresses has an AI automation risk score of 30/100 (Low). AI will change how this work is done, but the core skills remain valuable. Professionals who learn to work with AI tools will have a significant advantage.

What kind of person makes a good Waiters and waitresses?โ–ผ

Anyone interested in waiters and waitresses who wants to build a rewarding career in this field. Success in this role also depends on continuous learning and adaptability, especially as the field evolves with new technology and industry trends.

Is Waiters and waitresses Right for You?

Take our career quiz to see how Waiters and waitresses matches your personality. Get personalized AP course recommendations and see what similar students are exploring.

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