Hostess Salary in Portland, OR
Hostesses in Portland, OR, in 2025, earn approximately $18.24 per hour, which translates to about $729.60 per week, $3,161.60 per month, and $37,939.20 per year.
The job market for Hostesses in Portland is growing steadily, with a 5% increase in demand per year, indicating positive opportunities for those entering the hospitality sector in this vibrant city.
How Much Does a Hostess Make in Portland, OR?
The salary of a Hostess in Portland varies by experience and establishment type. Below is an overview of typical earnings at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.05 | $562.00 | $2,433.33 | $29,224.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.24 | $729.60 | $3,161.60 | $37,939.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $28.81 | $1,152.40 | $4,981.73 | $59,924.80 |
Do Hostesses in Portland Earn Tips?
Hostesses occasionally receive tips, especially in busy or high-end restaurants. While not guaranteed, Hostesses in Portland can earn approximately an extra $5 to $10 per shift in tips depending on the establishment and shift length.
Hostess Salary in Portland vs. National Average
Nationally, Hostesses earn around $13.60 per hour, equal to about $28,288 per year.
In comparison, Hostesses in Portland earn significantly higher, at approximately $18.24 hourly and $37,939 annually, reflecting Portland's demand for skilled hospitality staff and the city's higher living costs.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Portland for Hostesses
If you are considering work outside Portland, certain nearby cities offer comparable or slightly better pay rates for Hostesses:
- Hillsboro: $18.38 per hour
- Bend: $18.36 per hour
Both Hillsboro and Bend provide competitive wages, closely matching Portland's salary levels for this role.
What Influences a Hostess’s Salary in Portland?
Several factors contribute to the salary variations experienced by Hostesses in Portland:
- Experience and Skills: Experienced Hostesses who excel in customer service and efficiently manage seating often command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Hostesses working at upscale restaurants or busy hotels typically earn more than those in fast casual or smaller dining venues.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts may offer premium pay due to higher customer volume.
- Location and Demand: High-demand areas within Portland and neighboring cities often have better salary offers.
How To Become a Hostess in Portland
Becoming a successful Hostess in Portland can be achieved by following some fundamental steps:
- Education and Training: Enroll in programs like the Portland Community College Hospitality Management Program or Oregon Culinary Institute Restaurant Management Program to gain important hospitality skills.
- Obtain Certifications: Acquire mandatory certifications such as the Food Handler's Permit and the OLCC Alcohol Server Permit in Oregon to comply with safety and service regulations.
- Develop Customer Service Skills: Strong communication and interpersonal abilities are crucial for Hostesses to manage guests effectively.
- Gain Experience: Start with entry-level roles in restaurants or hospitality establishments to build practical knowledge and job contacts.
Top Employers Hiring Hostesses in Portland
Portland's hospitality scene includes many popular employers actively hiring Hostesses:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
- Olive Garden
- Red Robin
Establishments That Hostesses in Portland Work At
Hostesses typically find employment across a variety of dining establishments:
- Fast Food and Quick-Service Restaurants: Usually have lower wages but high turnover, offering valuable experience.
- Casual and Family Dining: These venues often pay moderate wages with opportunities for tips.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Restaurants: Tend to offer the highest pay and better tip potentials due to service expectations.
- Hotels and Event Venues: May provide consistent hours and competitive salaries, depending on the size and prestige.
The type of establishment can significantly affect a Hostess's salary and career advancement prospects.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Portland for Hostesses
Many hospitality professionals who start as Hostesses progress to related positions in the food service industry.
Similar roles include Server, Backwaiter, and Fine Dining Server, each offering varying responsibilities and salary ranges within the hospitality sector.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Hostesses in Portland
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is important for Hostesses working in Portland:
- State labor laws and workplace regulations can be accessed through the Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries.
- For federal tax information, visit the Internal Revenue Service.
- Additional federal labor laws and statistics are available on the U.S. Department of Labor website.