Hostess Salary in Hackensack, NJ
Hostesses in Hackensack, NJ, 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 Hackensack is experiencing positive growth of about 5% per year, indicating an expanding market and increased job opportunities in the hospitality and restaurant industries.
How Much Does a Hostess Make in Hackensack, NJ?
The salary of a Hostess in Hackensack varies with experience and employer type. Here's a breakdown of typical hourly, weekly, monthly, and yearly earnings.
| 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 Hackensack Earn Tips?
Hostesses typically do not earn tips as part of their compensation since their duties primarily involve greeting and seating guests rather than direct service. However, some establishments may include tip pooling, but this is not common.
Hostess Salary in Hackensack vs. National Average
Nationally, Hostesses earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which corresponds to approximately $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Hostesses in Hackensack earn slightly less hourly ($13.90 vs. $14.50) and have a marginally lower annual salary ($28,912 vs. $30,160).
This difference may relate to local cost of living, employer size, and specific establishment types.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Hackensack for Hostesses
Nearby areas offering different Hostess salaries include:
- Downtown Hackensack: $15.50 per hour
- The Shops at Riverside: $17.60 per hour
Hostesses working at The Shops at Riverside earn significantly more than the average in Hackensack, pointing to more upscale or busy establishments in that area.
What Influences a Hostess’s Salary in Hackensack?
The salary of a Hostess in Hackensack is influenced by several important factors:
- Experience and Tenure: Hostesses with more years of experience or demonstrated leadership abilities often command higher wages.
- Skills and Customer Service: Strong communication and multitasking skills can increase employer preference and salary offers.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, or specialized dining venues usually pay better than casual or fast-food outlets.
- Shift and Hours Worked: Evening or weekend shifts may offer premium pay compared to standard daytime hours.
- Location: Wages differ between neighborhoods and nearby cities, with more commercial or tourist areas often offering higher compensation.
How To Become a Hostess in Hackensack
Starting a career as a Hostess in Hackensack involves several straightforward steps and possible certifications:
- Complete Hospitality-Related Education: Programs such as the Bergen Community College Hospitality Management Program provide foundational skills suitable for Hostess roles.
- Customer Service Training: The Hackensack Adult School offers specialized courses aimed at improving customer interaction skills.
- Food Handling Certification: Obtaining a ServSafe Food Handler Certification helps in understanding food safety, often required by restaurants.
- Responsible Alcohol Service Training: The TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification is beneficial for Hostesses working in establishments serving alcohol.
- Gain Experience: Entry-level positions or internships in restaurants will help build necessary communication and operational skills.
Top Employers Hiring Hostesses in Hackensack
The following well-known establishments are notable employers of Hostesses in the Hackensack area:
- Houston's
- Maggiano's Little Italy
- The Cheesecake Factory
Establishments That Hostesses in Hackensack Work At
Hostesses in Hackensack typically find work in various types of dining establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These venues offer moderate pay but excellent entry-level opportunities for gaining experience.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: While generally offering lower wages than full-service venues, they provide fast-paced environments that develop multitasking skills.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Restaurants: These establishments pay higher wages and may require more polished customer service skills.
- Hotels and Resorts: Some Hostesses work in larger hospitality settings with additional benefits and salary increments.
The type and prestige of the establishment significantly influence a Hostess’s earning potential and career growth opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Hackensack for Hostesses
If you’re considering roles related to being a Hostess, here are a few options with similar skills and job environments:
These include Receptionist, Waiter/Waitress, and Banquet Server positions, each requiring strong interpersonal and organizational skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Hostesses in Hackensack
Hostesses should familiarize themselves with labor laws and tax requirements to ensure fair treatment and proper financial management.
- For comprehensive federal employment guidelines, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Detailed information on New Jersey state labor laws and employment regulations can be found at NJ.gov.