As a restaurant server, the income can vary significantly depending on a number of factors, including the location of the restaurant, the type of cuisine served, the level of service expected, and the tipping culture in the area. It's important to note that servers often rely heavily on tips to supplement their base wages, which can be relatively low.

In the United States, the federal minimum wage for tipped employees is $2.13 per hour, but many states have higher minimums. For example, the state mentioned in the data provided has a median wage of $9.36 an hour for waiters and waitresses, which includes tips. This indicates that the base wage is likely to be lower than this median, with tips making up the difference.

Working full time, which typically means around 40 hours per week, a server earning $9.36 per hour would make approximately $19,000 per year before taxes. However, this figure is a median, meaning that half of servers earn more and half earn less. In the Twin Cities, the median hourly wage is slightly higher at $10.57, which would translate to a yearly income of just over $22,000 for a full-time server.

It's crucial to consider that these figures are based on median wages and do not account for the variability in tips, which can greatly increase a server's income. Tips can vary widely depending on the restaurant's clientele, the quality of service provided, and the discretion of the customers. Some servers may earn significantly more than the median wage, especially in high-end establishments where customers are accustomed to tipping generously.

In addition to base wages and tips, servers may also have opportunities for additional income through promotions, bonuses, or working in establishments that offer benefits such as health insurance and paid time off. However, these benefits are not universal and can depend on the policies of the individual restaurant or company.

It's also worth noting that the job of a server can be demanding, with long hours on one's feet, high-pressure situations, and the need to provide excellent customer service. The work can be rewarding for those who enjoy interacting with people and thrive in a fast-paced environment, but it also requires physical stamina and the ability to handle stress.

In summary, the income of a server can vary widely based on a range of factors, with the potential for higher earnings in establishments with a strong tipping culture and higher base wages. However, the job also comes with its own set of challenges and demands.

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The median wage for the 45,000 waiters and waitresses in the state is $9.36 an hour, including tips, meaning that if a server is working full time, he or she could make a little more than $19,000 a year. In the Twin Cities, servers do a little better -- the median hourly wage is $10.57.Jul 6, 2010read more >>