Hostess Salary in Bloomington, IN
Hostesses in Bloomington, IN, in 2025, earn approximately $12.39 per hour, which translates to about $495.60 per week, $2,147.60 per month, and $25,771.20 per year.
The demand for Hostesses in Bloomington is growing at about 5% per year, signaling a promising outlook and increasing opportunities in the local hospitality market.
How Much Does a Hostess Make in Bloomington, IN?
The salary of a Hostess in Bloomington varies depending on experience and venue, but generally follows this pattern at different levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $9.65 | $386.00 | $1,669.33 | $20,072.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $12.39 | $495.60 | $2,147.60 | $25,771.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $26.17 | $1,046.80 | $4,523.73 | $54,433.60 |
Do Hostesses in Bloomington Earn Tips?
Hostesses typically do not earn tips as part of their income, since their role focuses on greeting and seating guests rather than providing direct food or beverage service. Their earnings usually come solely from their base salary or hourly wage.
Hostess Salary in Bloomington vs. National Average
Nationally, Hostesses earn around $13.60 per hour or about $28,288 per year on average.
Compared to the national average, Hostesses in Bloomington earn slightly less hourly at $12.39, and their annual salary of $25,771.20 reflects this moderate difference. The variance is influenced by local cost of living and demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Bloomington for Hostesses
Nearby areas offer these average hourly wages for Hostesses:
- Downtown Bloomington: $13.50 per hour
- East Side: $12.80 per hour
Downtown Bloomington offers the highest wages for Hostesses nearby, reflecting a possibly busier dining scene.
What Influences a Hostess’s Salary in Bloomington?
The salary of a Hostess in Bloomington can be influenced by several factors:
- Experience and Skill Level: Hostesses with more experience and strong customer service skills can command better pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale or busy restaurants often pay higher wages compared to casual dining spots.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts might offer shift differentials or bonuses.
- Certifications: Holding customer service or hospitality-related certifications can increase employability and salary potential.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Wages reflect the local economy and living expenses.
How To Become a Hostess in Bloomington, IN
To start a career as a Hostess in Bloomington, consider the following steps:
- Complete Educational Programs: Enroll in the Hospitality Management Program at Ivy Tech Community College which prepares students for roles including hosting.
- Customer Service Skills Training: WorkOne Bloomington offers customer service training to enhance interpersonal and communication skills necessary for Hostess roles.
- Obtain Relevant Certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler ensure understanding of food safety, an asset in restaurants.
- Emergency Preparedness: CPR and First Aid Certification can be beneficial, showing preparedness in emergencies within dining environments.
Top Employers Hiring Hostesses in Bloomington
Some well-known employers consistently seeking Hostesses in Bloomington include:
- Cracker Barrel
- Chili's
- Texas Roadhouse
- Olive Garden
- Red Lobster
Establishments That Hostesses in Bloomington Work At
Hostesses in Bloomington commonly find employment across various types of eating establishments:
- Casual Dining: Hostesses here often have steady work hours and moderate salaries.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: These establishments may offer slightly lower pay but more flexible shifts.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Positions at upscale venues can yield higher salaries and occasionally bring some tip opportunities.
- Hotel Restaurants and Banquet Facilities: These may offer more diverse work hours with good benefits.
The type and prestige of the establishment can greatly affect a Hostess’s earning potential and career progression.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Bloomington for Hostesses
If you are interested in similar roles to Hostess, here are a few suitable hospitality positions:
These roles include Backwaiter, Fine Dining Server, and Waiter/Waitress, all of which share some responsibilities and skills with Hostesses but may offer different compensation.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Hostesses in Bloomington
Hostesses should familiarize themselves with labor laws and tax requirements relevant to work in Indiana:
- Visit the Official website of the State of Indiana for detailed information on state labor laws and employment resources.
- For federal labor law guidance, consult the U.S. Department of Labor's official website.