Host/Hostess Salaries

The salary of a Host or Hostess can vary based on experience and location. On average, you can expect to earn around $30,391 per year. Starting salaries typically range from $19,700 to $22,091 for entry-level positions. As you gain experience and skills, your earnings can increase significantly. For those with several years in the role, salaries can reach up to $46,000.

The salary distribution shows that around 10.1% of Hosts and Hostesses earn about $22,091, while 12.4% make around $24,482. As you progress in your career, you may find yourself earning $36,436 or more, which represents around 8.2% of the workforce. This growth potential makes the role appealing for many job seekers.

1. San Francisco, CA
   Average Salary: $43,243
   Working as a greeter in San Francisco brings vibrant energy and diverse clientele. Popular restaurants like The Cheesecake Factory and House of Prime Rib rely on friendly faces to welcome guests and manage seating.
   Find Host/Hostess jobs in San Francisco, CA
   




2. Seattle, WA
   Average Salary: $41,295
   In Seattle, the role of a greeter offers a chance to be part of the city's dynamic food scene. Notable establishments such as The Pink Door and Canlis emphasize the importance of creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for diners.
   Find Host/Hostess jobs in Seattle, WA
   




3. San Jose, CA
   Average Salary: $39,358
   San Jose offers an exciting environment for a greeter position. With a booming tech industry, dining spots like The Old Spaghetti Factory and Le Boulanger value cordial reception to enhance their guests' experiences.
   Find Host/Hostess jobs in San Jose, CA
   




4. Los Angeles, CA
   Average Salary: $39,330
   Los Angeles provides endless opportunities for greeters in its diverse culinary landscape. Restaurants like Nobu and Koi depend on welcoming individuals to ensure a positive first impression in this fast-paced city.
   Find Host/Hostess jobs in Los Angeles, CA
   




5. Boulder, CO
   Average Salary: $38,648
   In Boulder, working as a greeter means connecting with health-conscious diners. Popular locations like The Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse and The Kitchen aim to create a friendly and engaging dining environment.
   Find Host/Hostess jobs in Boulder, CO
   




6. Denver, CO
   Average Salary: $37,563
   Denver welcomes greeters into its thriving restaurant scene. Busy locales such as Herb's and The Capital Grille appreciate the importance of a friendly smile and effective seating management for their guests.
   Find Host/Hostess jobs in Denver, CO
   




7. Boston, MA
   Average Salary: $37,258
   A greeter role in Boston allows you to work in a city rich with history and culture. Iconic restaurants like Legal Sea Foods and Union Oyster House look for welcoming staff to enhance their customers' dining experiences.
   Find Host/Hostess jobs in Boston, MA
   




8. Minneapolis, MN
   Average Salary: $37,241
   Minneapolis presents a great opportunity for greeters in its diverse dining spots. Establishments like Café Lurcat and The Bachelor Farmer value warm and friendly interactions that greet their patrons.
   Find Host/Hostess jobs in Minneapolis, MN
   




9. Santa Rosa, CA
   Average Salary: $37,217
   In Santa Rosa, being a greeter lets you enjoy the charm of this wine country city. Restaurants like John Ash & Co. and Willi’s Wine Bar seek personable individuals to create a welcoming atmosphere for their guests.
   Find Host/Hostess jobs in Santa Rosa, CA
   




10. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $37,134
    Washington, DC provides a vibrant setting for greeters in a variety of dining experiences. Prestigious locations like Founding Farmers and Old Ebbitt Grill look for welcoming personalities to reflect the city's hospitality.
    Find Host/Hostess jobs in Washington, DC
    

1. Complete Weddings + Events
   Average Salary: $75,236
   Complete Weddings + Events offers a vibrant environment for Host/Hostess positions. Employees play a key role in orchestrating events, ensuring guests feel welcome and excited. The company operates in multiple locations across the United States.
   




2. Hillstone Restaurant Group
   Average Salary: $63,700
   At Hillstone Restaurant Group, Host/Hostess roles focus on delivering excellent customer service and creating a warm atmosphere. The company has numerous restaurants throughout cities, providing a bustling workspace for employees.
   




3. Mina Group
   Average Salary: $62,019
   Mina Group cultivates a dynamic environment for Host/Hostess positions in fine dining settings. Staff members greet guests and enhance their dining experience at various high-end locations, primarily in urban areas.
   




4. AECOM
   Average Salary: $59,447
   As a global leader in engineering and architecture, AECOM also offers Host/Hostess roles within their corporate dining services. Employees work in locations across the United States, contributing to an excellent dining experience for staff and guests.
   




5. Challenge Entertainment
   Average Salary: $57,500
   Challenge Entertainment provides exciting opportunities for Host/Hostess roles, particularly in entertainment venues. Employees engage with guests at various locations, creating memorable experiences through interactive events.
   




6. Uline
   Average Salary: $57,327
   Uline values customer service in its Host/Hostess roles within their corporate dining services. Team members greet and assist guests, creating a friendly environment at Uline locations across North America.
   




7. The Walt Disney Company
   Average Salary: $51,318
   At The Walt Disney Company, Host/Hostess roles are vital in maintaining the magic of guest experiences. Employees work at various parks and resorts, ensuring each visitor feels welcomed in a joyful atmosphere.
   




8. Geeks Who Drink
   Average Salary: $48,169
   Geeks Who Drink offers unique Host/Hostess positions in a fun trivia night setting. Employees interact with guests and organize events in pubs across the nation, bringing a spirited ambience to the evening.
   




9. Marriott Vacations Worldwide
   Average Salary: $47,669
   At Marriott Vacations Worldwide, Host/Hostess roles contribute to creating a welcoming atmosphere in vacation settings. This company operates numerous resorts, providing staff with a chance to enhance guests’ vacation experiences.
   




10. 1 Hotels
    Average Salary: $44,588
    1 Hotels values hospitality in its Host/Hostess roles, emphasizing eco-friendly luxury. Employees greet guests at locations that merge nature with comfort, creating welcoming experiences in beautiful surroundings.
    

As a Host or Hostess, your earnings can improve with a few key strategies. Focus on these factors to increase your income:

1. Upselling Skills: Learn to suggest appetizers, drinks, or desserts. Upselling can increase overall sales and lead to higher tips.
2. Customer Service: Provide excellent service with a smile. Engaging with guests positively encourages them to tip well and return to the restaurant.
3. Location: Work in a busy or upscale restaurant. High-traffic areas often mean more customers and better tips.
4. Collaborate with Staff: Build strong relationships with servers and kitchen staff. Teamwork can create a better dining experience, resulting in happier customers and higher tips.
5. Flexible Scheduling: Work during peak hours. Being available during busy times increases your chances of serving more guests and earning more tips.