Hostess Salary in Honolulu, HI
Hostesses in Honolulu, HI, in 2025, earn approximately $17.16 per hour, which translates to about $686.40 per week, $2,974.40 per month, and $35,692.80 per year.
The job demand for Hostesses in Honolulu is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and expanding opportunities in the local hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Hostess Make in Honolulu, HI?
The salary of a Hostess in Honolulu varies by experience level, with entry-level, mid-level, and top earners seeing different pay scales as shown below.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.53 | $541.20 | $2,344.80 | $28,137.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.16 | $686.40 | $2,974.40 | $35,692.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.76 | $870.40 | $3,757.87 | $45,260.80 |
Do Hostesses in Honolulu Earn Tips?
Hostesses typically do not earn tips as part of their regular income since their role mainly involves greeting and seating customers rather than direct table service. Their earnings are generally based on the hourly wage.
Hostess Salary in Honolulu vs. National Average
Nationally, Hostesses earn an average of around $13.53 per hour, translating to about $28,142.40 per year.
Compared to the national average, Hostesses in Honolulu earn significantly more, with approximately $17.16 per hour and $35,692.80 per year. This difference reflects the higher cost of living and strong hospitality demand in Honolulu.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Honolulu for Hostesses
Nearby areas where Hostesses earn higher wages include:
- Waikiki: $21.86 per hour
- Downtown Honolulu: $20.25 per hour
These higher wages in Waikiki and Downtown Honolulu represent the premium pay often associated with tourist-heavy and upscale dining areas.
What Influences a Hostess’s Salary in Honolulu?
Several factors contribute to how much a Hostess can earn in Honolulu:
- Experience and Skill Level: Experienced Hostesses often earn higher wages due to their familiarity with customer service and efficient seating management.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale and busy restaurants, especially those in tourist areas, usually pay higher salaries compared to casual or fast-food eateries.
- Location: Establishments in premium neighborhoods or tourist-centric districts tend to offer higher pay.
- Additional Responsibilities: Hostesses who take on extra duties such as reservation management or assisting with customer inquiries may see better compensation.
How To Become a Hostess in Honolulu
To pursue a career as a Hostess in Honolulu, consider the following steps:
- Complete Relevant Education: Programs such as the Kapiolani Community College Culinary Arts Program offer courses in hospitality and restaurant management, which provide foundational skills for Hostesses.
- Pursue Hospitality Management Training: The University of Hawaii at Manoa Travel Industry Management Program delivers education beneficial for those seeking a career in hospitality, including Hostessing.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensure knowledge of food safety practices and are often required by employers.
- Alcohol Serving Certification: For roles in restaurants that serve alcohol, the Hawaii Alcohol Server Training is mandatory and can enhance employment prospects.
- Gain Practical Experience: Internships or entry-level jobs in restaurants help develop necessary interpersonal and organizational skills.
Top Employers Hiring Hostesses in Honolulu
Leading companies actively seeking Hostesses in Honolulu include:
- Marriott International
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Outrigger Hospitality Group
Establishments That Hostesses in Honolulu Work At
Hostesses commonly find employment in a range of hospitality venues:
- Casual Restaurants: These establishments provide consistent employment opportunities, often for entry-level Hostesses.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Hostesses here tend to earn higher wages due to the upscale nature and customer service expectations.
- Fast Casual and Quick-Service: Typically, pay might be lower but positions could serve as valuable experience.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger hospitality venues often offer better benefits and salary potential for Hostesses.
The type of establishment significantly influences the salary based on customer volume, service level, and location prestige.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Honolulu for Hostesses
If you are interested in careers related to Hostessing, here are some similar roles you might explore:
These include Waiter/Waitress, Backwaiter, and Fine Dining Server roles, which involve related customer service skills and offer different ranges of compensation.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Hostesses in Honolulu
Hostesses should familiarize themselves with labor laws and tax responsibilities affecting their employment in Honolulu.
- Detailed information on federal labor laws and regulations is available at the U.S. Department of Labor.
- The State of Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations website provides specific state labor laws, minimum wage information, and employment rights.
- The City and County of Honolulu official website offers local resources related to employment and taxation.