Hostess Salary in Norfolk, VA
Hostesses in Norfolk, VA, in 2026, earn approximately $16.87 per hour, which translates to about $674.80 per week, $2,924.13 per month, and $35,089.60 per year.
The demand for Hostesses in Norfolk is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook and expanding opportunities in the local hospitality and restaurant industry.
How Much Does a Hostess Make in Norfolk, VA?
The salary of a Hostess in Norfolk 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) | $14.00 | $560.00 | $2,426.67 | $29,120.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.87 | $674.80 | $2,924.13 | $35,089.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.30 | $852.00 | $3,690.00 | $44,304.00 |
Do Hostesses in Norfolk Earn Tips?
Hostesses generally do not earn tips as part of their compensation. They primarily receive hourly wages or salaries, and while some establishments might pool tips to front-of-house staff, Hostesses typically do not receive direct tipping income.
Hostess Salary in Norfolk vs. National Average
Nationally, Hostesses earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, translating to about $30,160 per year.
When compared to the national average, Hostesses in Norfolk earn more, at about $16.87 per hour and $35,089.60 annually.
This pay premium can be attributed to local economic factors and the specific demand for hospitality workers in Norfolk, VA.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Norfolk for Hostesses
When looking at nearby areas, hostess salaries vary slightly:
- Downtown: $17.50 per hour
- Ghent: $18.00 per hour
Hostesses working in Ghent generally enjoy the highest hourly wages near Norfolk, likely due to the area's vibrant dining scene and upscale establishments.
What Influences a Hostess’s Salary in Norfolk?
Several key factors influence the salary of a Hostess in Norfolk:
- Experience and Communication Skills: Experienced Hostesses with strong interpersonal and organizational abilities tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and busy venues may offer higher pay compared to casual or fast-food settings.
- Shift Timing: Working evening or weekend shifts can sometimes come with overtime or differential pay.
- Local Demand: Areas with a high volume of dining and entertainment options may offer competitive wages.
How To Become a Hostess in Norfolk
Starting a career as a Hostess in Norfolk involves several practical steps and educational opportunities:
- Hospitality Management Program at Tidewater Community College: This program offers courses in hospitality operations, customer service, and management skills tailored for the restaurant industry.
- Customer Service Excellence Workshop by Norfolk Chamber of Commerce: A workshop focusing on enhancing customer interaction skills, crucial for front-of-house roles like Hostesses.
- ServSafe Food Handler Certification: A certification that ensures knowledge of food safety practices, often required in the hospitality industry.
- Certified Guest Service Professional (CGSP): A credential that recognizes exceptional customer service skills in the hospitality sector.
Top Employers Hiring Hostesses in Norfolk
Some of the leading employers hiring Hostesses in Norfolk include:
- Norfolk Yacht and Country Club
- Chili's Grill & Bar
- Applebee's
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Fogo de Chao Churrascaria
Establishments That Hostesses in Norfolk Work At
Hostesses in Norfolk typically find employment in various types of establishments, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These often provide steady schedules and moderate pay.
- Fast Casual and Chain Restaurants: These venues may have larger staffing needs and offer entry-level opportunities.
- Upscale or Fine Dining Establishments: These locations tend to offer higher wages due to expectations of superior service and skill from staff.
- Country Clubs and Hotels: More exclusive environments frequently offer higher pay scales and better benefits.
The type of establishment significantly impacts salary levels and tips availability, with upscale venues often paying more.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Norfolk for Hostesses
For those interested in careers related to Hostess roles, there are several similar positions in the hospitality industry:
These include Backwaiter, Receptionist, and Server positions, which involve customer interaction and support within the hospitality sector.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Hostesses in Norfolk
Hostesses should be aware of federal and state labor laws and tax requirements to ensure their employment rights and obligations are met.
- For comprehensive federal labor laws and employment information, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Virginia-specific labor laws and employment regulations can be found on the official Virginia government website.