Hostess Salary in Lakeland, FL
Hostesses in Lakeland, FL, in 2025, earn approximately $17.34 per hour, which translates to about $693.60 per week, $3,005.60 per month, and $36,067.20 per year.
The job demand for Hostesses in Lakeland is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for employment opportunities in this role locally, as the hospitality industry continues to expand.
How Much Does a Hostess Make in Lakeland, FL?
The salary of a Hostess in Lakeland varies based on experience and employer, but the following breakdown covers typical earnings across different levels of seniority.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $7.25 | $290.00 | $1,256.67 | $15,080.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.34 | $693.60 | $3,005.60 | $36,067.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $58.56 | $2,342.40 | $10,142.40 | $121,804.80 |
Do Hostesses in Lakeland Earn Tips?
Hostesses typically do not earn tips as their primary role involves greeting and seating guests rather than direct food or drink service. Their compensation usually comes from their salary or hourly wages.
Hostess Salary in Lakeland vs. National Average
The national average hourly wage for Hostesses is approximately $17.34 with an annual salary around $36,067.20.
Hostesses in Lakeland earn very close to this national average, indicating competitive pay relative to the country overall, influenced by local cost of living and hospitality demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lakeland for Hostesses
Nearby locations offering higher salaries to Hostesses include:
- Downtown Lakeland: $18.50 per hour
- Lakeland Highlands: $19.00 per hour
Hostesses considering nearby areas might find salary advantages commuting to Lakeland Highlands, which offers the highest average pay among these locations.
What Influences a Hostess’s Salary in Lakeland?
Several factors can impact how much a Hostess earns in Lakeland:
- Experience and Seniority: More seasoned Hostesses often earn higher wages as they bring greater efficiency and customer service skills.
- Skills and Certifications: Strong communication and organizational skills are valued, and related guest service certifications may enhance earnings.
- Type of Establishment: Hostesses working in upscale or high-traffic restaurants generally receive better pay compared to casual dining venues.
- Shift Hours: Evening and weekend shifts may offer shift differentials that increase compensation.
How To Become a Hostess in Lakeland
Starting a career as a Hostess in Lakeland involves several key steps:
- Complete relevant hospitality programs: Polk State College’s Hospitality Management Program equips students with skills for roles including Hostess duties.
- Enhance customer service skills: Lakeland Adult School offers training courses focused on interpersonal skills essential for Hostesses.
- Earn certifications: Obtaining credentials like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification or Certified Guest Service Professional (CGSP) can improve job prospects and salary potential.
- Gain practical experience: Entry-level positions or internships in dining establishments help build necessary expertise.
Top Employers Hiring Hostesses in Lakeland
Several well-known chains regularly look for qualified Hostesses in Lakeland, including:
- Longhorn Steakhouse
- Applebee's
- Waffle House
Establishments That Hostesses in Lakeland Work At
Hostesses may work across various types of hospitality venues, each offering differing salary levels based on customer volume and establishment prestige.
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These establishments offer consistent employment but often with lower pay.
- Fast Casual and Chain Restaurants: Larger operations provide greater staffing needs and sometimes benefits, influencing salary potential.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Restaurants: Hostesses in these venues typically earn higher wages and may benefit from tip-sharing policies.
- Hotels and Resort Restaurants: These settings can offer opportunities for advancement and slightly higher pay rates.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lakeland for Hostesses
If you're interested in careers related to Hostess roles, consider exploring these similar positions that share skills and duties:
These include Backwaiter, Fine Dining Server, and Waiter/Waitress roles — all of which utilize strong guest interaction skills and offer various earning potentials.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Hostesses in Lakeland
Hostesses should familiarize themselves with labor laws and tax regulations applicable at the federal and state levels to ensure compliance and understand their rights.
- For federal labor laws visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The state of Florida provides resources on employment laws and worker rights on myflorida.com.