How much does a Host/Hostess make?
Hosts and hostesses are vital to the hospitality industry. They greet guests, ensure a warm atmosphere, and assist in various ways. They often earn a modest income. The average yearly salary for a host or hostess is about $32,930. This income can vary based on the type of establishment, location, and experience.
To understand the salary range better, consider these points:
- The lowest 10% of earners make around $20,000 or less.
- The middle 50% earn between $25,455 and $36,364.
- The top 10% make $41,818 or more annually.
These figures show the diversity in earnings within the role. Those who excel can see their salaries increase with more experience and responsibilities.
What are the highest paying cities for a Host/Hostess?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $51,315
Working as a host or hostess in San Francisco means greeting guests in a bustling city known for its vibrant food scene. With numerous upscale restaurants, hosts enjoy interactions with a diverse clientele. Opportunities exist in tech-centric areas as well as historic districts, offering a unique work environment.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $45,920
In Seattle, hosts play a key role in a city famous for its coffee culture and seafood. Welcoming guests in chic cafes or waterfront restaurants, they ensure a pleasant dining experience. Seattle's dynamic atmosphere provides a rewarding work setting for those who love the outdoors and city life alike.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $42,614
Los Angeles offers hosts a chance to work in a city that never sleeps, with a mix of trendy restaurants and entertainment venues. The city's diverse culture means hosts interact with a wide range of guests. Working in LA can be fast-paced, but it offers many opportunities for growth and networking.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $40,660
In Washington, DC, hosts often find themselves in the heart of political and social events. They greet guests in a city rich in history and culture. With a mix of political hotspots and trendy dining scenes, hosts in DC have a unique chance to interact with a diverse and influential crowd.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $40,312
San Jose hosts work in a tech hub known for its innovation and startups. They serve a mix of corporate and casual diners in a vibrant and growing city. The tech environment offers a dynamic work atmosphere, often with opportunities to meet industry professionals.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $39,915
San Diego offers hosts a chance to work in a city known for its beautiful beaches and outdoor activities. They greet guests in a variety of settings, from waterfront restaurants to lively downtown spots. The laid-back California lifestyle makes for a pleasant work environment.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $39,539
In Denver, hosts enjoy working in a city known for its outdoor recreation and craft breweries. They cater to a mix of locals and tourists in a vibrant dining scene. The clean, fresh air and mountain views provide a refreshing backdrop for a rewarding work experience.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $39,380
Boston hosts engage with guests in a city rich in history and education. They work in a variety of settings, from historic restaurants to modern cafes. The city's academic and cultural atmosphere offers a unique and intellectually stimulating work environment.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $38,075
Chicago hosts find themselves in a city known for its deep-dish pizza and vibrant music scene. They interact with a diverse group of guests in a city that never slows down. The dynamic and energetic atmosphere provides a thrilling work experience for those who love city life.
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Nashville, TN
Average Salary: $36,824
In Nashville, hosts work in a city famous for its country music and live performances. They cater to a lively crowd in a city full of energy and spirit. The warm Southern hospitality and vibrant nightlife offer a unique and engaging work environment.
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What are the best companies a Host/Hostess can work for?

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1 Hotels
Average Salary: $55,136
1 Hotels offers exciting opportunities for hosts and hostesses. They operate in various locations, including New York City, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. They focus on unique dining experiences and customer service.
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Bon Appétit Management Company
Average Salary: $52,822
Bon Appétit Management Company provides dynamic Host/Hostess roles. They manage food services at universities, hospitals, and airports nationwide. Their goal is to create welcoming environments for guests in various settings.
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HEI Hotels & Resorts
Average Salary: $46,615
HEI Hotels & Resorts offer rewarding positions for hosts and hostesses. They have properties in key locations like Florida, Arizona, and California. They pride themselves on delivering exceptional service and memorable guest experiences.
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Vi
Average Salary: $45,643
Vi focuses on modern hospitality with great opportunities for Host/Hostess roles. Their locations include trendy areas in Los Angeles and Miami. They emphasize stylish ambiance and top-notch customer service.
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Restaurant Associates
Average Salary: $43,572
Restaurant Associates manage multiple restaurants across the country. Host/Hostess positions are available in bustling cities like Chicago, New York, and Miami. They focus on providing warm, efficient service to guests.
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Flik Hospitality Group
Average Salary: $43,045
Flik Hospitality Group offers a variety of Host/Hostess roles in their properties in places like Colorado, California, and Washington. They aim to create inviting and comfortable environments for all guests.
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Desert Mountain Club
Average Salary: $42,000
Desert Mountain Club offers Host/Hostess positions in scenic locations such as Scottsdale, Arizona. They focus on providing a luxurious experience with excellent service in a stunning setting.
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Marriott International
Average Salary: $41,232
Marriott International has numerous Host/Hostess roles in locations worldwide. They emphasize professional service and guest satisfaction, offering a chance to work in a diverse array of environments.
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Mister O1
Average Salary: $40,853
Mister O1 provides exciting Host/Hostess positions in trendy areas. They are known for their vibrant atmosphere and focus on delivering a fun, welcoming experience for all guests.
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Adventist HealthCare
Average Salary: $40,790
Adventist HealthCare offers Host/Hostess roles in healthcare facilities across the East Coast. They value creating a caring and supportive environment for guests, ensuring a positive experience.
How to earn more as a Host/Hostess?
A host or hostess plays a crucial role in any hospitality setting. The role goes beyond greeting guests. It involves creating a welcoming environment and ensuring a smooth dining experience. Those who excel can find ways to earn more through various means. Here are some strategies to increase earning potential.
First, enhancing customer service skills can lead to better tips and possibly higher pay. Training in conflict resolution and effective communication can make a host or hostess more efficient and friendly. This often leads to positive guest reviews and recommendations, which can boost business and, in turn, earnings.
- Increased Efficiency: Hosts and hostesses who manage reservations and seating efficiently can reduce wait times. This leads to happier guests and higher tips.
- Advanced Training: Participating in additional training sessions on restaurant software and customer service can set a host or hostess apart.
- Marketing and Promotion: Hosts and hostesses can help promote events or specials. This can attract more guests and increase revenue.
- Team Leadership: Taking on leadership roles or assisting management with training new staff can lead to higher pay and more responsibilities.
- Networking: Building strong relationships with regular customers can lead to tips and repeat business. It can also open doors to better job opportunities.



