Flight Attendant Salary in Los Angeles, CA
Flight Attendants in Los Angeles, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $31.88 per hour, which translates to about $1,275.20 per week, $5,525.87 per month, and $66,310.40 per year.
The demand for Flight Attendants in Los Angeles is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook and expanding opportunities in the aviation and travel industries.
How Much Does a Flight Attendant Make in Los Angeles, CA?
The salary of a Flight Attendant in Los Angeles can vary based on experience, airline, and seniority. Below is a general breakdown of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $19.36 | $774.40 | $3,345.33 | $40,211.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $31.88 | $1,275.20 | $5,525.87 | $66,310.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $52.49 | $2,099.60 | $9,082.13 | $109,179.20 |
Do Flight Attendants in Los Angeles Earn Tips?
Flight Attendants generally do not earn tips. Their compensation primarily comes from salary or hourly wages paid by the airline. Benefits and bonuses may supplement their base pay, but tips are not customary for this role.
Flight Attendant Salary in Los Angeles vs. National Average
Nationally, Flight Attendants earn an average of around $30.05 per hour, translating to about $62,504 per year.
Compared to the national average, Flight Attendants in Los Angeles earn slightly more, at about $31.88 per hour and $66,310.40 annually. This reflects the higher cost of living and competitive airline industry wages in the Los Angeles area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Los Angeles for Flight Attendants
Nearby areas show some variation in Flight Attendant wages:
- Van Nuys: $41.44 per hour
- Burbank: $41.01 per hour
Flight Attendants working in Van Nuys or Burbank tend to earn higher wages compared to Los Angeles proper, due to the presence of major airport hubs and airline headquarters.
What Influences a Flight Attendant’s Salary in Los Angeles?
Several factors affect how much a Flight Attendant can earn in Los Angeles, such as:
- Experience and Seniority: More experienced Flight Attendants with seniority typically earn higher pay and can qualify for better routes and bonuses.
- Type of Airline: Major airlines often offer better compensation and benefits compared to regional or budget carriers.
- Schedule and Hours: Flight Attendants flying longer international routes or working more hours may receive higher pay and per diem allowances.
- Skills and Certifications: Additional certifications such as CPR and First Aid can enhance job performance and opportunities.
How To Become a Flight Attendant in Los Angeles
To become a Flight Attendant in Los Angeles, consider the following steps:
- Complete Required Training: Airlines provide in-house training, but prior completion of aviation-related courses or programs, such as the Los Angeles City College Aviation Program, help build relevant knowledge.
- Obtain Certifications: Certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) after completing airline training is mandatory.
- Acquire CPR and First Aid Certification: Many airlines require Flight Attendants to hold current certifications to handle in-flight medical emergencies.
- Develop Customer Service Skills: Strong communication and interpersonal skills improve job prospects significantly.
Top Employers Hiring Flight Attendants in Los Angeles
Some of the major airlines hiring Flight Attendants in Los Angeles include:
- Southwest Airlines
- American Airlines
- JetBlue
- Hawaiian Airlines
Establishments That Flight Attendants in Los Angeles Work At
Flight Attendants primarily work at:
- Commercial Airlines: Both domestic and international carriers employ Flight Attendants; pay rates and benefits can vary widely.
- Charter and Private Jet Companies: Smaller-scale operations may offer different pay structures and perks.
- Cargo Airlines: While less common, some Flight Attendants work for cargo carriers flying with a focus on freight, which might have different pay scales.
The type and size of the airline or carrier greatly influence salary, job stability, and working conditions for Flight Attendants.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Los Angeles for Flight Attendants
Flight Attendants have several similar or related career paths within the hospitality and travel industry.
These roles include Concierge, Bellhop, and Beverage Director, which also involve customer service and hospitality skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Flight Attendants in Los Angeles
Flight Attendants should be aware of labor laws and tax regulations that affect their employment and earnings:
- Visit the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) official website for aviation certifications and safety regulations.
- Review federal employment laws on the U.S. Department of Labor website for wage standards and labor rights.
- California-specific labor laws and workplace standards can be found on the California Department of Industrial Relations website.