Hostess Salary in Nashville, TN
Hostesses in Nashville, TN, in 2025, earn approximately $16.47 per hour, which translates to about $658.80 per week, $2,854.80 per month, and $34,257.60 per year.
The job demand for Hostesses in Nashville is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for employment opportunities in the hospitality and restaurant sectors.
How Much Does a Hostess Make in Nashville, TN?
The salary of a Hostess in Nashville varies based on experience and employer, but here is a breakdown by experience level:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $8.43 | $337.20 | $1,456.80 | $17,510.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.47 | $658.80 | $2,854.80 | $34,257.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $32.16 | $1,286.40 | $5,572.80 | $66,873.60 |
Do Hostesses in Nashville Earn Tips?
Hostesses generally do not earn tips directly as part of their role, since their responsibilities mostly involve greeting and seating guests rather than serving. However, in some establishments, they may receive occasional tips or bonuses, but this is not standard or guaranteed.
Hostess Salary in Nashville vs. National Average
Nationally, Hostesses earn an average of around $13.60 per hour, which equates to about $28,288 per year.
Compared to this, Hostesses in Nashville earn more, with an average wage of $16.47 per hour and a yearly salary of about $34,257.60. This difference reflects Nashville’s economic conditions and demand for hospitality roles.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Nashville for Hostesses
Nearby areas with higher Hostess salaries include:
- Cookeville: $30.44 per hour
- Goodlettsville: $22.97 per hour
Hostesses seeking higher pay rates may consider job opportunities in these neighboring cities, where wages exceed those in Nashville.
What Influences a Hostess’s Salary in Nashville?
Several key factors influence the salary of a Hostess in Nashville:
- Experience and tenure: More experienced Hostesses tend to earn higher wages.
- Skills and abilities: Strong customer service, communication, and organizational skills can boost earning potential.
- Type of establishment: Hostesses working in upscale or high-volume restaurants typically earn more than those in casual or chain venues.
- Shift and hours: Working evenings, weekends, or holidays can sometimes result in differential pay or bonuses.
- Local job market: Demand and competition in Nashville’s hospitality industry affect salary levels.
How To Become a Hostess in Nashville
To pursue a role as a Hostess in Nashville, consider the following steps:
- Gain relevant training: Programs like the Nashville State Community College Culinary Arts Program and The Art Institute of Tennessee – Nashville Culinary Arts Program provide valuable hospitality and front-of-house skills.
- Obtain certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensure knowledge of food safety practices, while the Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) Server Permit is mandatory for working in establishments serving alcohol.
- Develop strong interpersonal skills: Excellent communication and customer service skills are essential.
- Gain practical experience: Starting in entry-level hospitality or front-desk roles helps build experience and understand restaurant operations.
Top Employers Hiring Hostesses in Nashville
Some prominent employers hiring Hostesses in Nashville include:
- J. Alexander’s
- M Street Entertainment Group
- Cracker Barrel
Establishments That Hostesses in Nashville Work At
Hostesses in Nashville typically work in a variety of establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often offer steady schedules but moderate wages.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: May provide a faster-paced environment with variable pay.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Generally offer higher wages and require polished customer service skills.
- Banquet and Event Venues: These may offer seasonal or event-based work with varied income.
The type of establishment has a significant impact on the salary, with fine dining and high-volume restaurants typically paying more than casual settings.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Nashville for Hostess
If you’re exploring careers related to being a Hostess, here are some similar roles you might consider:
These include Server, Bellhop, and Backwaiter roles, which involve related hospitality and customer service functions.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Hostess in Nashville
Understanding labor laws and tax responsibilities is important for Hostesses working in Nashville.
- On the Tennessee government website you can find information on state-specific employment laws, minimum wage standards, and workplace regulations.
- For federal labor laws and workplace standards, the U.S. Department of Labor website offers comprehensive resources.