How much does a dishwasher make?
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics groups this role under Dishwashers (SOC 35-9021). In its May 2025 wage survey, the national median was $16.73 an hour, or about $34,810 a year for full-time work, across roughly 477,450 people employed nationally. The middle of the market sits between $12.59 at the 10th percentile and $20.61 at the 90th.
Dishwasher pay in Boston
In the Boston-Cambridge-Newton metro area, the median for dishwashers was $18.15 an hour ($37,750a year), reflecting Massachusetts' higher minimum wage and cost of living.
What moves the number
Dishwasher pay typically follows the local market and minimum wage rules, along with the restaurant's volume and shift hours. Some restaurants offer tip sharing, staff meals, or faster raises for reliable dishwashers who learn prep. Experience with machine maintenance and stewarding duties can help you earn more.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025. BLS figures for tipped roles may not capture all tip income. The BLS category is the closest official match for this role, not an exact one.
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