Hostess Salary in Hilo, HI
Hostesses in Hilo, HI, in 2025, earn approximately $19.63 per hour, which translates to about $785.20 per week, $3,402.53 per month, and $40,830.40 per year.
The demand for Hostesses in Hilo is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy increase in job opportunities within the hospitality and dining sectors of the region.
How Much Does a Hostess Make in Hilo, HI?
The salary of a Hostess in Hilo varies according to experience and employer type. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.63 | $785.20 | $3,402.53 | $40,830.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $27.16 | $1,086.40 | $4,699.73 | $56,492.80 |
Do Hostesses in Hilo Earn Tips?
Hostesses usually do not earn tips as their role is focused on greeting and seating guests. Their income generally comes from their hourly wage or salary, without additional tipping income.
Hostess Salary in Hilo vs. National Average
Across the United States, Hostesses earn an average of about $13.63 per hour or $28,350.40 per year.
Compared to this, Hostesses in Hilo earn above the national average with approximately $19.63 per hour and $40,830.40 annually. This difference may be influenced by the local cost of living and demand within Hilo’s hospitality industry.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Hilo for Hostesses
Nearby areas offering higher pay for Hostesses include:
- Princeville: $27.31 per hour
- Lahaina: $23.43 per hour
Hostesses seeking higher earnings might consider opportunities in these surrounding locales, which offer elevated wages compared to Hilo.
What Influences a Hostess’s Salary in Hilo?
Several factors impact the salary of a Hostess in Hilo:
- Experience and Tenure: Hostesses with more years in the field or specialized skills tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants and luxury hotels often pay better than casual or fast-food venues.
- Skills and Certifications: Time management, bilingual abilities, and customer service certifications can positively affect pay.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening, weekend, or holiday shifts may carry premium pay rates.
- Local Economic Conditions: Hilo’s market demand for hospitality staff and cost of living can influence wage levels.
How To Become a Hostess in Hilo
Starting a career as a Hostess in Hilo involves a combination of skills, training, and practical experience.
Here are some valuable steps to consider:
- Complete Hospitality Education: Programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Hawaii Community College or the Hospitality and Tourism Program at University of Hawaii at Hilo provide useful training for hospitality roles including hosting.
- Obtain Relevant Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensure knowledge of safety standards, while the Certified Guest Service Professional (CGSP) certification can enhance customer service credentials.
- Develop Interpersonal Skills: Strong communication and customer service skills are essential for Hostesses.
- Gain Experience: Entry-level positions in restaurants or hotels can provide practical skills and career advancement opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Hostesses in Hilo
Several prominent hospitality employers in Hilo look for qualified Hostesses:
- Hilton Grand Vacations
- Marriott International
- Outrigger Hotels and Resorts
Establishments That Hostesses in Hilo Work At
Hostesses typically find employment in a variety of venue types, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer relaxed environments and stable hourly wages.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Often fast-paced with moderate pay but opportunities for tips in some locations.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Higher prestige venues tend to pay more competitive salaries and may offer additional benefits.
- Hotels and Resorts: Large establishments often provide full-time hours, benefits, and higher salaries.
The level of formality of the establishment generally affects the salary a Hostess can command, with upscale venues typically paying more.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Hilo for Hostesses
If you’re interested in related roles within the hospitality sector, consider exploring careers with similar customer-facing responsibilities.
These include Backwaiter, Receptionist, and Cashier positions, all involving guest interaction and customer service in hospitality settings.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Hostesses in Hilo
Hostesses in Hilo should familiarize themselves with federal, state, and local labor regulations as well as tax obligations.
- Federal labor laws and employment information are available at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Detailed state labor information can be found at the Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations.
- Local ordinances and resources are available through the City and County of Honolulu official website.