Hostess Salary in Kansas City, MO
Hostesses in Kansas City, MO, in 2025, earn approximately $16.23 per hour, which translates to about $649.20 per week, $2,813.20 per month, and $33,758.40 per year.
The demand for Hostesses in Kansas City is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating positive job prospects and an increasing need for skilled hospitality staff in this vibrant city.
How Much Does a Hostess Make in Kansas City, MO?
The salary of a Hostess in Kansas City varies depending on experience level and employer. Below is an overview of the typical earnings at various stages of their career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.75 | $550.00 | $2,383.33 | $28,600.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.23 | $649.20 | $2,813.20 | $33,758.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $24.32 | $972.80 | $4,204.53 | $50,457.60 |
Do Hostesses in Kansas City Earn Tips?
Hostesses in Kansas City typically do not earn tips, as their role mainly involves greeting and seating guests rather than direct food or beverage service.
Hostess Salary in Kansas City vs. National Average
Nationally, Hostesses earn an average of around $13.75 per hour, equating to about $28,600 per year.
Compared to the national average, Hostesses in Kansas City earn higher hourly wages and annual salaries, reflecting the region's demand for hospitality staff and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Kansas City for Hostesses
Nearby areas show slight variations in Hostess salaries:
- Downtown: $17.50 per hour
- Country Club Plaza: $18.00 per hour
Those working in Country Club Plaza may earn marginally more than in Downtown, likely due to the higher-end clientele and upscale dining establishments.
What Influences a Hostess’s Salary in Kansas City?
Several factors contribute to the salary levels of Hostesses in Kansas City:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Hostesses who manage complex seating arrangements or offer exceptional customer service tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and hotels often pay better compared to casual dining or fast-food settings.
- Location Within the City: Working in popular or affluent neighborhoods like Country Club Plaza can come with a salary premium.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Hostesses working evenings or weekends might receive shift differentials, increasing their pay.
- Additional Responsibilities: Those who also handle reservation systems or guest services may command higher salaries.
How To Become a Hostess in Kansas City
Becoming a Hostess in Kansas City involves building hospitality skills and gaining relevant training.
- Hospitality Management Program at Johnson County Community College: This program offers comprehensive training in hospitality services, including front-of-house operations that are ideal for aspiring Hostesses.
- Culinary Arts Program at Kansas City Kansas Community College: Provides education in culinary skills and restaurant management, which can be beneficial for understanding the broader restaurant environment.
- ServSafe Food Handler Certification: Ensures knowledge of food safety practices, often required in hospitality roles like Hostess.
- Certified Guest Service Professional (CGSP): Recognizes exceptional service skills, enhancing a Hostess’s credentials.
- Gain Work Experience: Starting in entry-level customer service roles or as dining support staff can pave the way towards becoming a Hostess.
Top Employers Hiring Hostesses in Kansas City
Popular employers offering career opportunities for Hostesses in Kansas City include:
- Texas Roadhouse
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Homegrown
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
Establishments That Hostesses in Kansas City Work At
Hostesses typically find employment in various types of dining settings, each influencing their salary:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often provide steady employment with average pay and opportunities for tips in some cases.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Usually offer hourly wages with less emphasis on tipping.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Hostesses in these venues might earn more due to higher service standards and customer expectations.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger facilities may offer higher salaries and benefits, along with more formal hospitality roles.
The type and prestige of the establishment significantly influence salary potential and career growth for Hostesses.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Kansas City for Hostesses
If you are interested in roles similar to Hostess, you might consider related hospitality careers that share customer interaction and service elements.
These include Backwaiter, Fine Dining Server, and Waiter/Waitress positions, which involve direct customer service and can offer different salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Hostesses in Kansas City
Hostesses should familiarize themselves with employment laws and tax responsibilities at both federal and state levels to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- For federal guidelines, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For Missouri-specific labor regulations, the Missouri state labor website provides comprehensive resources.