Hostess Salary in Raleigh, NC
Hostesses in Raleigh, NC, in 2025, earn approximately $12.84 per hour, which translates to about $513.60 per week, $2,225.60 per month, and $26,707.20 per year.
The job demand for Hostesses in Raleigh is looking positive, with a steady growth rate of about 5% per year, indicating more opportunities in the hospitality sector over time.
How Much Does a Hostess Make in Raleigh, NC?
The salary of a Hostess in Raleigh varies depending on experience and employer. Below is an overview of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.71 | $428.40 | $1,852.40 | $22,276.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $12.84 | $513.60 | $2,225.60 | $26,707.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $25.80 | $1,032.00 | $4,456.00 | $53,664.00 |
Do Hostesses in Raleigh Earn Tips?
Hostesses typically do not earn tips as their role is focused on greeting and seating guests rather than directly serving food or beverages. Their income mainly comes from their hourly wage or salary.
Hostess Salary in Raleigh vs. National Average
Nationally, a Hostess earns about $13.64 per hour and approximately $28,371.20 annually.
Compared to the national average, Hostesses in Raleigh earn slightly less hourly at $12.84 per hour and an annual salary of $26,707.20. This difference reflects regional variations in cost of living and market demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Raleigh for Hostesses
Nearby areas offering higher pay for Hostesses include:
- Downtown Raleigh: $13.50 per hour
- North Hills: $14.00 per hour
Hostesses working in North Hills can expect to earn the highest wages among the nearby areas, making it a promising location for work.
What Influences a Hostess’s Salary in Raleigh?
Several factors determine how much a Hostess can earn in Raleigh:
- Experience: More experienced Hostesses often command higher wages due to their customer service skills and efficiency.
- Skills: Strong communication and organizational skills improve job performance and salary potential.
- Type of Establishment: Hostesses working in upscale or fine dining venues tend to earn more compared to those in casual dining or fast-food restaurants.
- Work Hours: Working weekends, evenings, or holidays can sometimes include shift differentials that increase pay.
- Local Demand: Competitive labor markets in busy metropolitan areas like Raleigh can drive wages upward.
How To Become a Hostess in Raleigh
Becoming a Hostess in Raleigh generally involves a few key steps:
- Gain Customer Service Experience: Many employers prefer candidates with experience in customer-facing roles.
- Complete Hospitality Courses: Programs such as the Wake Technical Community College Hospitality Management Program offer valuable training in restaurant operations and customer service.
- Earn Certifications: Getting a ServSafe Food Handler Certification can be advantageous since it demonstrates knowledge of food safety and sanitation.
- Develop Soft Skills: Focus on communication, patience, and problem-solving abilities to excel as a Hostess.
Top Employers Hiring Hostesses in Raleigh
Some well-known establishments in Raleigh hiring Hostesses include:
- The Cheesecake Factory
- The Capital Grille
- Tupelo Honey
Establishments That Hostesses in Raleigh Work At
Hostesses in Raleigh work in various restaurant types, including casual dining, fast casual, fine dining, and family restaurants.
The type of establishment can significantly influence salary. For example, fine dining restaurants often pay more competitive wages to Hostesses due to the higher service standards and customer expectations.
Fast casual or family dining establishments may offer lower wages but could provide more flexible hours or opportunities for advancement within the organization.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Raleigh for Hostesses
If you are interested in positions similar to Hostess, consider the following roles:
These roles include Backwaiter, Fine Dining Server, and Waiter/Waitress, which involve direct customer interaction and may offer opportunities to earn tips.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Hostesses in Raleigh
Hostesses should be familiar with both federal and state labor laws and taxation to understand their rights and obligations.
- For federal labor laws and employment information, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- To learn about North Carolina state-specific labor laws and employment resources, visit the North Carolina government's official website.