Hostess Salary in Charleston, WV
Hostesses in Charleston, WV, currently earn around $11.19 per hour, which means approximately $447.60 per week, $1,939.60 per month, and $23,275.20 annually.
The demand for Hostesses in Charleston is growing positively at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy job market with expanding opportunities in the hospitality sector.
How Much Does a Hostess Make in Charleston, WV?
The salary of a Hostess in Charleston can vary with experience and workplace, but here’s a look at earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $8.75 | $350.00 | $1,516.67 | $18,200.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $11.19 | $447.60 | $1,939.60 | $23,275.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $15.92 | $636.80 | $2,756.53 | $33,073.60 |
Do Hostesses in Charleston Earn Tips?
Hostesses generally do not earn tips as their main responsibility is greeting and seating guests rather than providing table service. Their compensation mostly comes from their hourly wage.
Hostess Salary in Charleston vs. National Average
Nationally, Hostesses earn an average hourly wage of about $13.50 and make approximately $28,080 annually.
Compared to this, Hostesses in Charleston, WV, earn less on average with about $11.19 per hour and $23,275.20 annually. This is influenced by local cost of living and regional demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Charleston for Hostesses
Nearby areas show some variation in pay for Hostesses:
- South Hills: $12.50 per hour
- Kanawha City: $12.00 per hour
Those willing to commute to South Hills or Kanawha City may find higher wages than within Charleston itself.
What Influences a Hostess’s Salary in Charleston?
The salary of a Hostess in Charleston can be influenced by several key factors:
- Experience and Customer Service Skills: Hostesses with more experience and excellent interpersonal skills typically command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Higher-end restaurants, hotels, and event venues generally offer greater pay compared to casual diners or fast-food chains.
- Shift Timing and Hours: Evening or weekend shifts might pay more due to higher customer traffic.
- Local Economic Factors: Charleston’s cost of living and regional hospitality market conditions affect salary levels.
How To Become a Hostess in Charleston
Here are some pathways and tips for starting a career as a Hostess in Charleston:
- Education and Training: Enrolling in hospitality programs such as the Hospitality Management Program at BridgeValley Community and Technical College or Customer Service Training at West Virginia State University can provide valuable foundational skills.
- Certifications: Obtaining a Food Handler's Permit is often required since Hostesses may handle menus and seating in dining areas where food safety is critical. Additionally, the TIPS Certification is useful in establishments serving alcohol.
- Gain Experience: Starting in entry-level service roles and developing strong communication skills will improve employability and salary potential.
Top Employers Hiring Hostesses in Charleston
Some of the leading employers currently hiring Hostesses in Charleston include:
- Texas Roadhouse
- Applebee's
- IHOP
Establishments That Hostesses in Charleston Work At
Hostesses typically find roles in a variety of hospitality settings, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These locations often hire Hostesses to manage seating and customer flow, generally offering mid-range pay.
- Fast Casual and Family Restaurants: These positions may come with slightly lower pay but usually offer more flexible schedules.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Hotels: Hostesses here often earn more due to higher service expectations and prestige.
- Event and Banquet Venues: Pay can vary based on event types and volume but sometimes includes tips or bonuses.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Charleston for Hostesses
If you are interested in related roles within the hospitality industry, consider these positions:
These include Cashier, Backwaiter, and Banquet Server, which share similar customer service and hospitality functions.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Hostesses in Charleston
Understanding labor laws and taxation is important for Hostesses working in Charleston. Here are some useful resources:
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for general employment guidelines.
- Refer to West Virginia state labor laws and regulations for state-specific information.
- Check local employment rules at the City of Charleston official website.