Hostess Salary in Des Moines, IA
Hostesses in Des Moines, IA, in 2026, 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 Des Moines is growing positively at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy increase in job opportunities in the hospitality sector within this region.
How Much Does a Hostess Make in Des Moines, IA?
The salary of a Hostess in Des Moines can vary depending on experience and the particular employer, but here is a general overview across different levels of expertise.
| 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 Des Moines Earn Tips?
Hostesses typically do not earn tips directly as part of their compensation. Their role mainly involves greeting and seating guests, and tipping is usually reserved for servers and bartenders. However, some establishments may occasionally include small tip pools that Hostesses can benefit from.
Hostess Salary in Des Moines, IA vs. National Average
Nationally, Hostesses earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which translates to approximately $30,160 per year.
When compared to the national average, Hostesses in Des Moines earn slightly less hourly at $13.90 per hour and about $28,912 annually. This difference can be attributed to regional cost of living and local market demands.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Des Moines for Hostesses
Nearby Des Moines, some areas offer higher pay rates for Hostesses:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- West Des Moines: $17.60 per hour
Hostesses willing to commute to these areas may find better compensation opportunities than within Des Moines proper.
What Influences a Hostess’s Salary in Des Moines?
Several factors impact how much a Hostess can earn in Des Moines:
- Experience and Tenure: More experienced Hostesses tend to secure higher wages and sometimes additional responsibilities.
- Skills and Customer Interaction: Strong communication skills and professionalism can lead to better pay, particularly in upscale establishments.
- Type of Establishment: Hostesses working in fine dining or high-volume restaurants usually earn more than those in casual or fast food environments.
- Shift and Hours Worked: Evening, weekend, and holiday shifts may offer higher compensation or bonuses.
- Local Market Conditions: Economic health and competition among employers in Des Moines affect wage levels.
How To Become a Hostess in Des Moines
To pursue a career as a Hostess in Des Moines, consider these practical steps:
- Education and Training: Enroll in programs such as the Des Moines Area Community College Culinary Arts Program or Iowa Culinary Institute at Des Moines Area Community College, which provide valuable skills related to hospitality and front-of-house operations.
- Food Safety Certification: Obtain certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification to demonstrate knowledge of safe food handling practices.
- Hospitality Certifications: Earning credentials such as the Certified Hospitality Professional can enhance your qualifications.
- Gain Customer Service Experience: Jobs in retail or other customer-facing roles can prepare candidates for welcoming guests efficiently.
- Build Networking Connections: Connecting with local restaurants and hospitality professionals is valuable for job opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Hostesses in Des Moines
Several well-known organizations frequently seek Hostesses in Des Moines:
- Hy-Vee
- Embassy Suites by Hilton
- Marriott International
Establishments That Hostesses in Des Moines Work At
Hostesses typically find employment in a variety of establishments, each affecting salary differently:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer moderate wages and steady work hours.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Tend to have lower hourly rates but may provide quicker shifts.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Generally pay higher wages and may include additional benefits due to the upscale nature and expectations.
- Hotels and Resorts: Hostesses here often work in larger operations with consistent hours and potentially higher pay.
The type and scale of the establishment significantly influence overall earnings for Hostesses.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Des Moines for Hostesses
If you're interested in careers related to Hostessing, consider exploring these related roles:
These include Backwaiter, Server, and Waiter/Waitress positions, which involve related customer service duties within the hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Hostesses in Des Moines
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is essential for Hostesses in Des Moines to manage their employment effectively:
- Visit the State government website for information on employment laws and workforce development in Iowa.
- The Federal government website provides comprehensive details on labor regulations and worker rights.
- For local regulations and resources, see the City of Des Moines website.