Hostess Salary in Indianapolis, IN
Hostesses in Indianapolis, IN, in 2025, earn approximately $14.39 per hour, which translates to about $575.60 per week, $2,494.27 per month, and $29,931.20 per year.
The demand for Hostesses in Indianapolis is growing at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive job market and increasing opportunities in the hospitality sector.
How Much Does a Hostess Make in Indianapolis, IN?
The salary of a Hostess in Indianapolis can vary depending on experience and employer, but here is a general overview of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $9.67 | $386.80 | $1,671.33 | $20,073.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.39 | $575.60 | $2,494.27 | $29,931.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.42 | $856.80 | $3,695.20 | $44,457.60 |
Do Hostesses in Indianapolis Earn Tips?
Hostesses generally do not earn tips, as they primarily manage seating and greeting guests rather than direct table service. Their earnings mostly come from their hourly wages rather than tips.
Hostess Salary in Indianapolis vs. National Average
Nationally, Hostesses earn an average of about $13.56 per hour, equating to approximately $28,204.80 per year.
Compared to this, Hostesses in Indianapolis earn slightly more, with an average hourly wage of $14.39 and a yearly salary of $29,931.20.
This difference may reflect local economic factors and demand for hospitality staff in the Indianapolis area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Indianapolis for Hostesses
Looking at nearby neighborhoods or districts around Indianapolis, salary variations for Hostesses include:
- Downtown Indianapolis: $15.50 per hour
- Broad Ripple: $17.60 per hour
Hostesses working in Broad Ripple can potentially earn more than those in Downtown Indianapolis.
What Influences a Hostess’s Salary in Indianapolis?
Several factors can influence the salary of a Hostess in Indianapolis:
- Experience and Tenure: Hostesses with more years of experience typically earn higher wages as they bring valuable skills and efficiency to their roles.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale or fine dining restaurants generally offers better pay compared to fast casual or casual dining spots.
- Skills and Customer Service Ability: Exceptional communication and customer management skills can lead to higher earnings and advancement opportunities.
- Shift Timing: Evening, weekend, or holiday shifts might include shift differentials that increase pay.
- Local Demand and Economic Conditions: Salaries often reflect the local cost of living and the demand for hospitality services in specific areas of Indianapolis.
How To Become a Hostess in Indianapolis
Getting started as a Hostess in Indianapolis generally involves a few key steps and optional educational programs:
- Obtain Relevant Education: Programs like Ivy Tech Community College’s Hospitality Administration Program include coursework on restaurant management and front-of-house operations, equipping students with skills useful for Hostesses.
- Consider Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI)’s Tourism, Conventions, and Event Management Program: This offers classes covering guest services and hospitality management, beneficial for career development.
- Earn Certifications: Obtaining the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensures understanding of food safety practices, often required by employers.
- Certified Guest Service Professional (CGSP): This certification recognizes excellent guest service skills and can enhance employability for Hostess roles.
- Gain Work Experience: Entry-level positions, internships, or volunteer work in hospitality can provide practical experience and help build a resume.
Top Employers Hiring Hostesses in Indianapolis
Some of the leading hospitality employers actively hiring Hostesses in Indianapolis include:
- Texas Roadhouse
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Sullivan's Steakhouse
- Del Frisco's Grille
- Staybridge Suites
Establishments That Hostesses in Indianapolis Work At
Hostesses can be employed at a variety of establishments, each affecting salary and job experience:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Typically offer higher wages and expect polished customer service skills.
- Casual Dining: These restaurants may pay moderately and generally have faster-paced environments.
- Fast Casual: This segment usually pays less but offers entry-level opportunities for Hostesses.
- Hotels and Resorts: Hostesses here may have more formal roles, with better pay and benefits.
- Event Venues and Banquet Halls: Seasonal or event-based hosting jobs can vary in pay depending on volume and prestige.
The type of establishment impacts the salary range and career growth potential for Hostesses.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Indianapolis for Hostesses
If you are interested in roles similar to that of a Hostess, consider exploring these related positions that often share similar skills and work environments.
These include Server, Backwaiter, and Receptionist positions—all of which relate to guest interaction and front-of-house duties.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Hostesses in Indianapolis
Hostesses should be familiar with local, state, and federal labor laws and tax requirements to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- For federal labor laws and regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For Indiana state-specific employment resources and laws, check the Indiana Department of Workforce Development.
- Information on local regulations and services can be found at the City of Indianapolis official site.