Hostess Salary in Milwaukee, WI
Hostesses in Milwaukee, WI, in 2025, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The demand for Hostesses in Milwaukee is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy outlook for job opportunities and salary growth in this position within the region.
How Much Does a Hostess Make in Milwaukee, WI?
The salary of a Hostess in Milwaukee varies based on experience and the employer. Below is an overview of earnings across different levels of experience.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,436.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Hostesses in Milwaukee Earn Tips?
Hostesses typically do not earn tips as a regular part of their compensation since their primary duties involve greeting and seating guests rather than providing direct table service. Their earnings mostly come from wages rather than gratuities.
Hostess Salary in Milwaukee vs. National Average
Nationally, Hostesses earn about $14.50 per hour, which translates to roughly $30,160 per year.
Compared to this, Hostesses in Milwaukee earn slightly less, making around $13.90 per hour or $28,912 annually. This difference may reflect regional cost-of-living factors and local labor market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Milwaukee for Hostesses
Specific neighborhoods near Milwaukee offer higher wages for Hostesses:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- East Side: $17.60 per hour
Hostesses working in East Side can expect the best pay, while Downtown also offers a competitive wage above the city average.
What Influences a Hostess’s Salary in Milwaukee?
The salary of a Hostess in Milwaukee is influenced by several factors:
- Experience and Tenure: More experienced Hostesses generally receive higher pay due to refined skills and reliability.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and fine dining venues tend to offer better wages than casual dining or fast food.
- Skills and Responsibilities: Hostesses who take on additional tasks like managing reservations or coordinating floor operations may earn more.
- Shift Timings: Working during peak hours, weekends, or holidays can come with differential pay.
- Local Demand and Economic Conditions: Market competition and economic health in Milwaukee affect wage levels.
How To Become a Hostess in Milwaukee
Launching a career as a Hostess in Milwaukee involves a combination of education, training, and experience:
- Education: Completing relevant hospitality or culinary arts programs such as the Milwaukee Area Technical College Culinary Arts Program or Waukesha County Technical College Hospitality Management Program can provide valuable foundation skills.
- Certifications: Obtaining certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and Wisconsin Responsible Beverage Server Training improves employability and readiness, especially in environments where food safety and alcohol service knowledge are essential.
- Customer Service Skills: Gaining strong communication and interpersonal skills is critical for success as a Hostess.
- Practical Experience: Starting in entry-level hospitality roles or internships helps build on-the-job experience.
Top Employers Hiring Hostesses in Milwaukee
Among the notable employers in Milwaukee actively hiring Hostesses are:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Hostesses in Milwaukee Work At
Hostesses in Milwaukee are commonly employed in varied establishments including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer steady work hours and moderate wages.
- Fast Casual Chains: Typically pay entry-level wages and focus on quick customer turnover.
- Fine Dining Venues: Often provide a higher hourly wage due to the premium service expectations and upscale clientele.
- Hotels and Resorts: May offer more varied responsibilities and higher pay.
The type of establishment significantly affects a Hostess’s earning potential, with fine dining and hotel settings generally offering greater financial rewards.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Milwaukee for Hostesses
Those interested in similar careers to Hostess may consider these roles that involve front-of-house customer service and operational duties:
These include Backwaiter, Fine Dining Server, and Waiter/Waitress positions, typically requiring similar skills and offering varying salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Hostesses in Milwaukee
Hostesses in Milwaukee should stay informed about labor regulations and taxation legislation from federal, state, and local authorities.
- For federal labor laws and employment information, visit the U.S. Department of Labor.
- The Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development provides state-specific employment standards and resources.
- Local ordinances and workforce policies can be found on the City of Milwaukee official website.