Average pay, hourly rate and hiring demand for waiter / waitress roles across the UK — free official ONS data.
['In the UK, the average annual salary for a Waiter or Waitress is around £26,520, which equates to approximately £13.6 per hour.', 'This guide will cover typical pay rates, factors affecting earnings, and advice for both employers and jobseekers.']
| Average annual salary | £26,520 |
|---|---|
| Average weekly pay (2022) | £510 |
| Hourly equivalent | £13.6 (based on a 37-hour week) |
| Monthly (gross) | £2,210 |
| Indicative pay range | £19,100 – £37,100 |
Average and weekly figures are official ONS ASHE estimates via LMI for All. The indicative range is derived around the ONS average to reflect typical spread by region and experience; actual offers vary.
Official Working Futures projections show UK employment in this occupation moving from about 307,005 in 2021 to 294,117 by 2035 (-4.2%) — demand is declining.
| Year | Avg weekly pay | Annualised |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | £340 | £17,680 |
| 2022 | £510 | £26,520 |
['UK employers or agencies should consider offering competitive salaries to attract qualified candidates, as the demand for Waiters/Waitresses is currently declining.', 'Paying above average rates can help in securing and retaining good staff.']
Gangal Recruitment supplies vetted, right-to-work compliant staff across the UK — usually on site within 48 hours. Fully insured.
Get a Staffing QuoteTalk to us['To boost your pay as a Waiter or Waitress, gaining additional qualifications such as food safety certifications can make you more attractive to employers.', 'Building experience by working in different types of establishments can increase your value to potential employers, potentially leading to higher salaries.']
Region can impact earnings due to varying cost of living and local economic conditions; generally, urban areas may offer higher wages compared to rural regions.
Typical shifts include evenings and weekends, which can lead to irregular working patterns but also potential overtime opportunities.
While not always required, having food safety certifications can enhance employability and potentially increase salary.