Hostess Salary in Cary, NC
Hostesses in Cary, NC, in 2025, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The demand for Hostesses in Cary is growing at a steady rate of 5% per year, indicating promising job prospects in the local hospitality and dining industries.
How Much Does a Hostess Make in Cary, NC?
The salary of a Hostess in Cary varies based on experience, skill, and establishment type. Below is a breakdown by experience level:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,436.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Hostesses in Cary Earn Tips?
Hostesses typically do not earn tips as their role focuses on greeting and seating guests rather than direct food and beverage service. Most earnings come from their base salary.
Hostess Salary in Cary vs. National Average
Nationally, Hostesses earn about $14.50 per hour and approximately $30,160 per year. In comparison, Hostess salaries in Cary are slightly below this, with an average hourly pay of $13.90 and annual earnings near $28,912.
This difference reflects local market conditions and the cost of living in Cary, NC.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Cary for Hostesses
Nearby areas offering higher pay for Hostesses include:
- Downtown Cary: $15.50 per hour
- Preston: $17.60 per hour
Hostesses working in Preston can expect to earn significantly more than in other surrounding areas, making it an attractive location for higher-paying opportunities.
What Influences a Hostess’s Salary in Cary?
Several factors influence how much a Hostess earns in Cary, including:
- Experience Level: Hostesses with more years on the job tend to earn higher wages due to enhanced customer service skills and familiarity with restaurant operations.
- Skills and Certifications: Communication skills and certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler can improve earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and busy restaurants in prime locations like Downtown Cary or Preston usually offer higher pay than casual dining spots.
- Work Hours: Evening and weekend shifts may offer additional pay or bonuses.
How To Become a Hostess in Cary
Starting a career as a Hostess in Cary involves several helpful steps:
- Education: Programs like the Wake Technical Community College Hospitality Management Program or the Cary High School Culinary Arts Program can provide foundational knowledge in hospitality and customer service.
- Food Safety Training: Obtaining certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification is often required and demonstrates a commitment to proper food safety practices.
- Alcohol Service Training: Completing the North Carolina Responsible Alcohol Seller/Server Training can be beneficial for establishments that serve alcohol.
- Gain Experience: Volunteer or entry-level positions in local restaurants help build essential skills and networking opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Hostesses in Cary
Some prominent local employers actively hiring Hostesses include:
- Red Robin
- Ruth's Chris Steak House
- Doc B's Restaurant
Establishments That Hostesses in Cary Work At
Hostesses commonly find roles in various types of establishments such as:
- Casual Dining: These are the most frequent employers and offer steady shifts but often moderate pay.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Typically have a faster-paced environment, which may influence pay but often offers flexible schedules.
- Fine Dining: These establishments generally pay higher wages due to more demanding service standards and upscale clientele.
The establishment type greatly influences salary, with fine dining and high-traffic locations tending to pay more.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Cary for Hostesses
If you're considering careers related to Hostessing, several roles share similar skills and work environments.
These include Waiter/Waitress, Backwaiter, and Fine Dining Server positions, which all require excellent customer service skills and offer varied pay scales.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Hostesses in Cary
Hostesses need to be aware of the following resources to stay informed about labor laws and workplace rights:
- Visit the U.S. Department of Labor website for federal labor laws and regulations.
- Check North Carolina-specific labor laws on the North Carolina Department of Labor site.
- Find local ordinances and resources on the Town of Cary official website.