Host/Hostess Salary in Los Angeles, CA

Hosts and Hostesses are essential in creating a welcoming environment for guests at restaurants and other hospitality venues. In Los Angeles, the average annual salary for a Host/Hostess is $39,570. This figure reflects base pay and excludes additional income sources such as tips or bonuses, which can further boost earnings.

How Much Does a Host/Hostess Make in Los Angeles, CA?

What could I earn?

Find out how your salary compares to the average Host/Hostess salary.

Average Host/Hostess Base Salary:

What can I earn as Host/Hostess? Your salary is $0.00 on the US national average.
$14.78
Market Average $14.78
Your salary $14.78
$5.00 $10.00 $20.00

How much does a Host/Hostess make in Los Angeles per hour?

The hourly rate for a Host/Hostess in Los Angeles is currently $19.00. This does not include tips, bonuses or other performance-based incentives offered by the establishment they’re employed in.

How much does a Host/Hostess make in Los Angeles per month?

The average monthly salary for a Host/Hostess in Los Angeles is $3,297.50.

How much does a Host/Hostess make in Los Angeles per week?

Based on the hourly and monthly salaries above, the average Host/Hostess salary per week in Los Angeles is $760.00.

Factors Influencing Host/Hostess Salaries in Los Angeles

Several factors can impact how much a Host/Hostess earns in Los Angeles. These include the type of establishment, location, and individual experience.

Type of Establishment

High-end restaurants, luxury hotels, and exclusive clubs often pay Hosts and Hostesses higher wages. These establishments require a greater level of professionalism and service, which is reflected in the compensation.

Location

Hosts and Hostesses working in affluent areas such as Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, or West Hollywood typically earn more due to higher-priced venues and wealthier clientele.

Experience and Skills

While Host/Hostess roles are generally entry-level, those with experience in customer service, reservation management, or using point-of-sale systems may earn higher pay. Employers often value individuals who can handle high-pressure situations with poise.

Tips and Gratuities

In some establishments, Hosts and Hostesses receive a portion of pooled tips, especially in venues where their role significantly contributes to the guest experience.

High-Paying Opportunities for Hosts/Hostesses in Los Angeles

While the Host/Hostess role is often seen as a starting point in the hospitality industry, specific opportunities can lead to higher earnings:

  • Event Hosting: Temporary or freelance hosting opportunities for private events, parties, or corporate gatherings can offer premium hourly rates.
  • Working in Exclusive Venues: High-end restaurants, private clubs, and luxury hotels often pay more for Hosts and Hostesses who can provide exceptional service.
  • Taking on Additional Responsibilities: Roles that include reservation management, event coordination, or administrative tasks often come with higher pay.

Tips to Earn More Money as a Host/Hostess in Los Angeles

If you’re looking to increase your earnings as a Host/Hostess, consider these strategies:

Work Peak Hours: Shifts during weekends, holidays, or special events often come with additional pay or greater tip potential.

Seek High-End Opportunities: Apply for positions at upscale establishments or luxury hotels where wages and tips are typically higher.

Learn Reservation Systems: Proficiency in tools like OpenTable or Resy can make you a more valuable candidate and justify higher pay.

Take on Extra Duties: Offering to manage reservations, assist with event coordination, or handle administrative tasks can lead to raises or promotions.

Career Advancement for Hosts/Hostesses

Hosts and Hostesses can use their role as a stepping stone to advance within the hospitality industry. Below are some common career advancement opportunities:

Moving into Management

Hosts and Hostesses who demonstrate strong organizational and interpersonal skills can transition into roles such as Shift Supervisor or Front-of-House Manager. These positions come with increased responsibilities and higher salaries.

Transitioning to Other Hospitality Roles

Experience as a Host/Hostess provides valuable skills that are transferable to other positions, such as Server, Event Coordinator, or Sales and Marketing roles within the hospitality sector.

Enhancing Skills Through Training

Pursuing certifications in customer service, reservation management, or hospitality operations can improve job prospects and earning potential.

Additional Considerations for Hosts/Hostesses in Los Angeles

Building Strong Customer Relationships

Establishing rapport with guests can lead to repeat customers and higher tips. Excellent communication and a friendly demeanor are key to making a positive impression.

Networking Opportunities

Hosts and Hostesses in Los Angeles often have opportunities to network with influential guests or industry professionals, which can open doors to career advancement in the competitive hospitality market.

What Skills Are Employers Looking for in a Host/Hostess in Los Angeles?

You can see what employers want in a Host/Hostess in Los Angeles if you take a look at a sample Host/Hostess job description. In it, you’ll find the most common skills, abilities and experience requirements for this role.

High-Paying Cities for Host/Hostess

The table below showcases four of the best cities to work in as a Host/Hostess. You can see the average annual wage for a Host/Hostess in each of these cities.

High-Paying Cities for Host/Hostess

City Avg Salary Avg Hourly Wage
Chicago, IL $31,900 $15.34
Los Angeles, CA $39,570 $19.02
Miami, FL $31,380 $15.09
NYC, NY $39,120 $18.81

Hiring and Retaining Hosts/Hostesses in Los Angeles

For employers, finding skilled Hosts and Hostesses is essential to creating a positive guest experience. Here are some tips for attracting and retaining top talent:

Writing a Clear Job Description

A comprehensive job description should outline key responsibilities, such as greeting guests, managing reservations, and maintaining the front-of-house area. Highlighting benefits like flexible scheduling, training opportunities, and career growth can attract quality candidates.

Offering Competitive Pay

In a competitive market like Los Angeles, offering wages above the $19/hour average can help employers attract experienced Hosts and Hostesses. Additional perks, such as free meals or transportation stipends, can also make the role more appealing.

Providing a Positive Work Environment

A supportive work culture that values employee contributions can improve retention. Regular training and opportunities for advancement help motivate employees to stay long-term.

Conclusion

Hosts and Hostesses in Los Angeles earn an average annual salary of $39,570, with opportunities to increase earnings through tips, additional responsibilities, and career advancement. Whether you’re starting your career in hospitality or looking to hire skilled professionals, understanding the nuances of this role is essential for success.

FAQs About Host/Hostess Salaries in Los Angeles

In some establishments, Hosts and Hostesses receive a portion of pooled tips, especially if their role involves significant guest interaction and contributes to the overall dining experience.

Proficiency in reservation systems like OpenTable, excellent communication skills, and the ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment can increase earning potential.

Affluent neighborhoods like Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, and West Hollywood typically offer higher wages due to upscale clientele and venues.

Yes, many Hosts and Hostesses move into roles such as Server, Event Coordinator, or Front-of-House Manager, leveraging their customer service experience and industry knowledge.

While formal training is not required, certifications in customer service or hospitality operations can improve job prospects and earning potential.

Job title:
  • Host/Hostess
  • Assistant Restaurant Manager
  • Baker
  • Barback
  • Barista
  • Bartender
  • Busser
  • Cashier
  • Chef
  • Chef de Partie
  • Concierge
  • Cook
  • Director of Restaurant Operations
  • Dishwasher
  • Event Coordinator
  • Event Manager
  • Event Planner
  • Executive Chef
  • Fast-Food Worker
  • Fine Dining Server
  • Food Runner
  • Head Chef
  • Hotel General Manager
  • Hotel Manager
  • Housekeeper
  • Kitchen Manager
  • Line Cook
  • Maitre D’
  • Pastry Chef
  • Porter
  • Prep Cook
  • Private Chef
  • Receptionist
  • Restaurant Consultant
  • Restaurant Manager
  • Server
  • Sommelier
  • Sous Chef
  • Sushi Chef
  • Valet
  • Waiter/Waitress
Salary:
  • Los Angeles, CA
  • Average US
  • Chicago, IL
  • Miami, FL
  • NYC, NY
Growth
N/A
Avg. Salary
$39,570

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