How much does a Host/Hostess make?
Hosts and hostesses work in a variety of settings, including restaurants, hotels, and event venues. The salary for these roles varies, depending on several factors. Generally, most hosts and hostesses earn between $18,250 and $47,700 per year. The average yearly salary stands at around $31,035.
The income distribution for hosts and hostesses can be broken down as follows:
- 3.58% earn $18,250
- 6.27% earn $20,927
- 12.26% earn $23,605
- 10.23% earn $26,282
- 17.95% earn $28,959
- 19.06% earn $31,636
- 10.86% earn $34,314
- 7.08% earn $36,991
- 5.05% earn $39,668
- 1.82% earn $42,345
- 0.86% earn $45,023 and above
This range shows that while some earn a modest income, others can make significantly more, especially with tips and bonuses in certain environments.
What are the highest paying cities for a Host/Hostess?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $47,366
In San Francisco, greeting guests and guiding them to their tables is key. Many people work in high-end restaurants and chic cafes. Companies like Google and Salesforce often have on-site dining for their employees.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $43,036
Seattle offers a vibrant dining scene with plenty of opportunities. Warm service and a welcoming attitude shine here. Local businesses, including Starbucks headquarters, provide many jobs.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $40,531
LA’s bustling food scene means a host’s job is always in demand. From trendy eateries to famous celebrity spots, there’s a place for everyone. High-traffic areas like Hollywood have many openings.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $39,425
In Washington, greeting visitors and locals alike is a daily task. Many work in elegant restaurants serving government officials and tourists. Companies like Amazon and government buildings offer job opportunities.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $38,916
Denver’s thriving restaurant culture provides many openings. Warm, friendly service is important. Many positions are in popular spots like Union Station and downtown.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $38,910
San Jose offers a mix of casual and upscale dining. Welcoming guests with a smile is key. Silicon Valley companies like Intel and Apple provide many job opportunities.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $38,217
Boston’s historic dining scene needs friendly faces. Many work in famous seafood restaurants and trendy cafes. Companies like General Electric and Harvard have dining facilities.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $38,105
Chicago is famous for its deep-dish pizza and lively atmosphere. Friendly service is a must. Many opportunities exist in downtown and the Loop area.
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Stamford, CT
Average Salary: $37,342
Stamford offers a mix of corporate and casual dining. Efficient service is important. Many work in hotel restaurants and corporate dining areas.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $37,089
San Diego’s beachside dining scene is lively and fun. Warm hospitality is key. Many work in trendy beachside cafes and upscale restaurants.
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What are the best companies a Host/Hostess can work for?

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Hillstone Restaurant Group
Average Salary: $67,556
Hillstone Restaurant Group offers Host/Hostess roles across various locations. They value customer service and teamwork. They operate in cities such as Los Angeles, Chicago, and Las Vegas.
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Mina Group
Average Salary: $53,752
Mina Group seeks Hosts and Hostesses to manage guest arrivals. They focus on hospitality and dining excellence. Mina Group locations include Miami, New York, and Washington, D.C.
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1 Hotels
Average Salary: $51,213
1 Hotels provides Hosts and Hostesses with a unique experience. They emphasize luxury and comfort. Their locations include San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Boston.
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Marriott Vacations Worldwide
Average Salary: $47,947
Marriott Vacations Worldwide offers a variety of Host/Hostess positions. They value guest satisfaction and team spirit. They have resorts in Florida, Hawaii, and California.
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Advocate Aurora Health
Average Salary: $46,604
Advocate Aurora Health offers Host/Hostess roles in a medical setting. They focus on hospitality and patient care. Locations include Chicago and Milwaukee.
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Bon Appétit
Average Salary: $45,856
Bon Appétit provides Host/Hostess opportunities in schools and universities. They value punctuality and friendly service. They operate in cities like New York and San Francisco.
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Four Seasons
Average Salary: $45,568
Four Seasons offers luxury Host/Hostess roles. They emphasize elegance and guest comfort. Their locations include Paris, London, and Hong Kong.
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Restaurant Associates
Average Salary: $43,855
Restaurant Associates offers a variety of Host/Hostess positions. They value teamwork and customer satisfaction. Their locations include Boston, Philadelphia, and Atlanta.
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SugarFISH by Sushi Nozawa
Average Salary: $43,833
SugarFISH by Sushi Nozawa provides Host/Hostess opportunities in fine dining. They focus on customer service and teamwork. Locations include San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Seattle.
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Sonesta
Average Salary: $43,713
Sonesta offers Host/Hostess roles in luxury hotels. They value hospitality and guest satisfaction. Locations include Miami, New York, and Orlando.
How to earn more as a Host/Hostess?
In the role of a host or hostess, earning potential can greatly depend on several factors. Understanding these elements can help increase income. This article explores key strategies to boost earnings in this field. It aims to provide a clear path for job seekers looking to maximize their income in hospitality.
Firstly, improving customer service skills can lead to higher tips and repeat business. Excellent service creates a positive experience that customers remember. This leads to better tips and referrals. Effective communication with guests ensures they feel valued and cared for. Secondly, working at peak hours can increase tips. These hours include weekends and holidays when restaurants are busy. Hosts and hostesses must be flexible with their schedules. Being available during busy times can lead to more tips.
Additionally, networking within the restaurant and with guests can boost earnings. Building relationships with regular customers can lead to repeat business. It can also create a loyal customer base. Positive interactions with colleagues can lead to a better work environment. This can result in more opportunities for extra shifts. Lastly, offering to assist with additional tasks can also increase income. Tasks such as seating guests, taking reservations, and assisting with events can lead to higher tips. Taking initiative and being proactive can impress management and guests alike.
To summarize, maximizing income as a host or hostess involves several key strategies. Improving customer service, working peak hours, networking, and offering additional assistance are effective ways to increase earnings. These steps can help job seekers in hospitality find success and earn more.
Here are some actionable tips to consider:
- Enhance customer service skills to create a memorable experience.
- Work peak hours to increase opportunities for tips.
- Network with guests and colleagues for repeat business and referrals.
- Assist with additional tasks to impress management and guests.
- Be flexible with your schedule to take advantage of busy times.



