Hostess Salary in Lincoln, NE
Hostesses in Lincoln, NE, in 2025, earn approximately $12.00 per hour, which translates to about $480.00 per week, $2,080.00 per month, and $24,960.00 per year.
The demand for Hostesses in Lincoln is growing moderately at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities in the hospitality sector within the city.
How Much Does a Hostess Make in Lincoln, NE?
The salary of a Hostess in Lincoln can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general look at earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,816.67 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $12.00 | $480.00 | $2,080.00 | $24,960.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Hostesses in Lincoln Earn Tips?
Hostesses generally do not earn tips as their role focuses on greeting and seating guests rather than serving food and drinks directly. Their earnings are primarily based on their hourly wage or salary.
Hostess Salary in Lincoln vs. National Average
Nationally, Hostesses earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, translating to about $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Hostesses in Lincoln earn slightly less, at about $12.00 per hour and $24,960 annually. This difference could reflect local cost of living and market demand in Nebraska.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lincoln for Hostesses
Nearby areas offer the following salaries for Hostesses:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- Haymarket District: $17.60 per hour
Hostesses working in the Haymarket District tend to earn higher wages, likely due to a more upscale hospitality environment and higher customer volume.
What Influences a Hostess’s Salary in Lincoln?
Several factors can influence how much a Hostess earns in Lincoln, NE:
- Experience and Tenure: More experienced Hostesses tend to command higher wages due to refined customer service skills and operational knowledge.
- Skillset: Strong communication and multitasking abilities can lead to better pay or advancement opportunities.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels usually offers higher salaries compared to casual dining or fast-food venues.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts may come with shift differentials or bonuses, impacting overall earnings.
- Local Demand: Economic factors and hospitality industry growth in Lincoln affect wage levels.
How To Become a Hostess in Lincoln
Becoming a successful Hostess in Lincoln involves several steps to build a strong foundation in hospitality:
- Acquire Basic Hospitality Knowledge: Enroll in programs like the Hospitality Management Program at Southeast Community College which offers comprehensive training in hospitality services, including front-of-house operations.
- Enhance Customer Service Skills: Participate in workshops such as the Customer Service Excellence Workshop at Lincoln Chamber of Commerce focusing on effective guest interaction.
- Obtain Relevant Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensure you have essential knowledge of food safety practices valuable in many hospitality roles.
- Develop Experience: Gain practical experience through entry-level positions in restaurants or hotels to improve interpersonal and organizational skills.
- Reach for Advanced Credentials: Certifications such as the Certified Guest Service Professional (CGSP) can boost career advancement opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Hostesses in Lincoln
Several well-known establishments in Lincoln frequently seek qualified Hostesses:
- The Green Gateau
- Hub Cafe
- 1919 Lodge Restaurant
Establishments That Hostesses in Lincoln Work At
Hostesses in Lincoln can be found working across a variety of establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often have steady demand for hostesses but offer moderate pay scales.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: These may offer less pay but sometimes provide flexible scheduling.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Typically pay higher due to the need for polished service and upscale customer experience.
- Hotel Restaurants: Often provide opportunities for career growth and benefits alongside competitive salaries.
The choice of establishment greatly influences a Hostess’s salary, with more upscale venues generally offering better compensation and advancement.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lincoln for Hostesses
If you're considering related positions in the hospitality field, these career options provide similar work environments and skills:
These include Server, Fine Dining Server, and Backwaiter roles, which often require strong hospitality skills and involve guest interaction.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Hostesses in Lincoln
Understanding labor laws and tax responsibilities is important for Hostesses working in Lincoln, NE.
- Information on Nebraska state labor laws can be found at the State of Nebraska Department of Labor website, offering resources on employment regulations.
- For federal tax guidelines and resources, Hostesses should consult the Internal Revenue Service website.