Hostess Salary in Pasadena, CA
Hostesses in Pasadena, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $23.77 per hour, which translates to about $950.80 per week, $4,120.13 per month, and $49,441.60 per year.
The demand for Hostesses in Pasadena is growing positively at about 8% per year, indicating a solid increase in job opportunities and a healthy outlook for the position in the local hospitality market.
How Much Does a Hostess Make in Pasadena, CA?
The salary of a Hostess in Pasadena varies based on experience and employer type. Below is a breakdown of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.42 | $416.80 | $1,807.47 | $21,689.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $23.77 | $950.80 | $4,120.13 | $49,441.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $54.19 | $2,167.60 | $9,395.87 | $112,635.20 |
Do Hostesses in Pasadena Earn Tips?
Hostesses generally do not earn tips as their role focuses on greeting and seating guests rather than serving food or beverages. Their earnings are mostly based on hourly wages or salary.
Hostess Salary in Pasadena vs. National Average
Nationally, Hostesses earn an average of around $13.50 per hour, translating to about $28,080 per year.
Compared to the national average, Hostesses in Pasadena earn significantly higher, about $23.77 per hour and $49,441.60 annually. This difference reflects Pasadena's local market rates and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Pasadena for Hostesses
Nearby cities offer competitive wages for Hostesses as well:
- San Bernardino: $37.20 per hour
- Rosemead: $32.65 per hour
Commuters to San Bernardino or Rosemead may find higher-paying opportunities compared to Pasadena, making these locations attractive for Hostess positions.
What Influences a Hostess’s Salary in Pasadena?
Several factors impact earnings for Hostesses in Pasadena:
- Experience and Performance: More experienced Hostesses with strong guest interaction skills tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and hotels may pay more than casual dining or fast-food venues.
- Shift Timing: Evening or busy shift differentials can increase hourly pay.
- Additional Skills: Multilingual abilities and proficiency in reservation systems can boost salary potential.
- Local Competition and Demand: Pasadena's growing hospitality sector influences competitive pay rates.
How To Become a Hostess in Pasadena
Starting a career as a Hostess in Pasadena involves several practical steps:
- Take Hospitality Management Courses: Programs such as the Pasadena City College Hospitality Management Program offer training in front-of-house operations, preparing students for Hostess roles.
- Attend Culinary and Service Training: The Los Angeles Trade-Technical College Culinary Arts Program also provides valuable restaurant operations and customer service education beneficial for aspiring Hostesses.
- Obtain Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensure knowledge of food safety, often required for hospitality jobs.
- Develop Guest Service Skills: Earning the Certified Guest Service Professional (CGSP) credential can distinguish candidates by demonstrating excellence in guest service.
- Gain On-the-Job Experience: Entry-level jobs or internships at restaurants or hotels help build essential skills and work habits.
Top Employers Hiring Hostesses in Pasadena
Some major employers looking for qualified Hostesses in Pasadena include:
- The Cheesecake Factory
- California Pizza Kitchen
- Hillstone Restaurant Group
Establishments That Hostesses in Pasadena Work At
Hostesses work in a variety of hospitality establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Most common workplace, offering moderate salaries and high turnover opportunities.
- Fast Casual Establishments: Typically have faster-paced work environments, usually with slightly lower pay.
- Upscale and Fine Dining Venues: Higher pay possible due to premium service expectations and clientele.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often offer additional benefits, stable work hours, and sometimes better pay.
Salary differences arise depending on the prestige, location, and clientele of the establishment, with upscale venues providing the best earning prospects for Hostesses.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Pasadena for Hostesses
Individuals interested in Hostess roles might also consider related positions such as:
These include Receptionist, Backwaiter, and Server positions, all of which share customer service and hospitality elements relevant to Hostess skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Hostesses in Pasadena
Hostesses in Pasadena should understand their rights and responsibilities regarding employment laws and tax requirements.
- For federal labor regulations, employees can visit the Department of Labor website.
- California-specific labor laws and workplace regulations are detailed on the California Department of Industrial Relations website.