Hostess Salary in Athens, GA
Hostesses in Athens, GA, in 2026, earn approximately $15.82 per hour, which translates to about $632.80 per week, $2,742.13 per month, and $32,905.60 per year.
The demand for Hostesses in Athens is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating positive job growth and increasing opportunities in this role annually.
How Much Does a Hostess Make in Athens, GA?
The salary of a Hostess in Athens varies by experience level and employer. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.51 | $420.40 | $1,818.93 | $21,860.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.82 | $632.80 | $2,742.13 | $32,905.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.94 | $837.60 | $3,605.07 | $43,555.20 |
Do Hostesses in Athens Earn Tips?
Hostesses typically do not earn tips as their role mainly involves greeting and seating guests rather than serving food or beverages. Their compensation usually consists of a fixed hourly wage without additional tip income.
Hostess Salary in Athens, GA vs. National Average
Nationally, Hostesses earn approximately $13.64 per hour, or about $28,371.20 per year.
Compared to the national average, Hostesses in Athens, GA earn slightly more, at around $15.82 per hour and $32,905.60 annually. This suggests Athens offers competitive pay relative to the broader U.S. job market for Hostesses.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Athens for Hostesses
Nearby areas offer different pay rates for Hostesses:
- Downtown Athens: $15.82 per hour
- Five Points: $14.80 per hour
Downtown Athens offers the highest wages for Hostesses, making it an attractive area for job seekers in this role.
What Influences a Hostess’s Salary in Athens, GA?
Several factors influence a Hostess’s salary in Athens, including:
- Experience: More experienced Hostesses can command higher wages due to their ability to handle busy environments and customer relations smoothly.
- Skills: Strong communication, organizational skills, and the ability to manage reservations positively affect pay scales.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and hotels often pay higher salaries compared to casual dining or fast-casual venues.
- Shift and Hours: Evening or weekend shifts may offer differential pay, increasing overall earnings.
- Local Demand: Areas with more dining establishments and tourist traffic may provide better opportunities and wages.
How To Become a Hostess in Athens, GA
Starting a career as a Hostess in Athens involves several steps and useful certifications:
- Hospitality Management Program at Athens Technical College: This program offers comprehensive training in hospitality management, preparing students for roles in the hospitality industry including Hostess positions.
- Customer Service Excellence Workshop by Athens Area Chamber of Commerce: Enhances essential customer service skills vital for Hostesses to provide outstanding guest experiences.
- ServSafe Food Handler Certification: Often required in the hospitality industry to ensure knowledge of food safety practices.
- TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification: Educates on responsible alcohol service, which can be an asset in establishments serving alcohol.
Top Employers Hiring Hostesses in Athens, GA
Some of the top employers currently hiring Hostesses in Athens include:
- Piedmont Healthcare
- Cracker Barrel
- DePalmas Italian Cafe
- Texas Roadhouse
- Another Broken Egg Cafe
Establishments That Hostesses in Athens Work At
Hostesses in Athens are typically employed across a broad range of establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Offer entry-level pay but provide good opportunities for gaining experience.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Often have high customer turnover which can impact workflow and pay structures.
- Family-Style and Chain Restaurants: Provide steady work and usually pay competitive hourly wages.
- Upscale and Fine Dining Establishments: These may offer higher wages and tips, valuing excellent customer service.
The type of establishment can significantly affect a Hostess's salary and work environment.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Athens, GA for Hostesses
If you are interested in hospitality roles similar to Hostess, you might consider:
These include Backwaiter, Fine Dining Server, and Waiter/Waitress—all roles involving guest interaction and customer service.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Hostesses in Athens, GA
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is crucial for Hostesses in Athens:
- Visit the State of Georgia Department of Labor website for information on local labor laws, employment rights, and workforce services.
- For federal tax and employment guidance, check the Internal Revenue Service website.
- The Athens-Clarke County official website provides resources for local regulations and community support.