Hostess Salary in Arlington, VA
Hostesses in Arlington, VA, in 2025, earn approximately $17.01 per hour, which translates to about $680.40 per week, $2,948.40 per month, and $35,380.80 per year.
The career outlook for Hostesses in Arlington is positive, with job demand expected to grow by about 5% per year, indicating expanding opportunities in the hospitality and restaurant sectors.
How Much Does a Hostess Make in Arlington, VA?
The salary of a Hostess in Arlington varies based on experience and employer, but here is a breakdown of earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.41 | $496.40 | $2,144.93 | $25,727.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.01 | $680.40 | $2,948.40 | $35,380.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $24.29 | $971.60 | $4,198.93 | $50,523.20 |
Do Hostesses in Arlington Earn Tips?
Hostesses generally do not earn tips as their role focuses on greeting and seating guests rather than waiting tables. Their earnings primarily come from their hourly wage or salary rather than gratuities.
Hostess Salary in Arlington vs. National Average
Nationally, Hostesses earn around $13.60 per hour, which adds up to about $28,288 per year.
Compared to the national average, Hostesses in Arlington earn significantly more, with an average of $17.01 per hour and $35,380.80 annually.
This higher pay can be attributed to Arlington's higher living costs and competitive hospitality industry.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Arlington for Hostesses
Nearby areas also offer competitive salaries for Hostesses, including:
- Alexandria: $17.56 per hour
- McLean: $17.54 per hour
Hostesses in Alexandria and McLean earn slightly more than the average in Arlington, reflecting regional demand and cost of living differences.
What Influences a Hostess’s Salary in Arlington?
Several factors affect how much a Hostess can earn in Arlington:
- Experience and Skills: More experienced Hostesses with excellent customer service and organizational skills command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and hotels tend to pay more than casual dining or fast food.
- Shift Timing and Hours: Evening, weekend, or holiday shifts may come with premium pay or additional benefits.
- Certifications: Food safety and hospitality certifications may improve job prospects and salaries.
- Location: Proximity to urban centers or affluent areas can influence wage levels due to demand and cost of living.
How To Become a Hostess in Arlington
To start a career as a Hostess in Arlington, consider the following steps:
- Complete Relevant Hospitality Training: Programs like the Northern Virginia Community College Hospitality Management Program or the Arlington Career Center Culinary Arts Program offer knowledge relevant to front-of-house roles including Hostess duties.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is often required to demonstrate understanding of food safety.
- Consider Alcohol Service Training: The TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification can be beneficial if working in establishments serving alcohol.
- Gain Experience: Entry-level roles in casual dining or fast casual can help build customer service skills and restaurant experience.
- Develop Communication Skills: Strong interpersonal and multitasking abilities are essential for Hostesses to succeed.
Top Employers Hiring Hostesses in Arlington
Some leading employers seeking Hostesses in the Arlington area include:
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Ruth's Chris Steak House
- The Capital Grille
Establishments That Hostesses in Arlington Work At
Hostesses are pivotal in many types of dining and hospitality establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often provide steady work and moderate wages, forming a large job market for Hostesses.
- Fine Dining and Steak Houses: Generally offer higher salaries reflecting the upscale nature of service and clientele.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: These establishments may pay less but can be good opportunities for gaining experience.
- Hotels and Resorts: Hostesses in these venues might earn more due to the prestige and service standards.
Salary differences depend largely on the establishment's market position and clientele expectations.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Arlington for Hostesses
If you are interested in roles related to being a Hostess, consider these similar careers which might match your skills and interests:
These include Backwaiter, Fine Dining Server, and Server — roles involving customer interaction and service within hospitality.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Hostesses in Arlington
Hostesses in Arlington should be informed about labor laws and tax obligations applicable locally, statewide, and federally.
- For detailed federal labor laws and employment information, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Virginia's specific employment laws and labor resources can be found at Virginia's official state website.
- Local Arlington regulations and resources are available through the Arlington county government website.