Hostess Salary in Riverside, CA
Hostesses in Riverside, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $17.58 per hour, which translates to about $703.20 per week, $3,047.20 per month, and $36,566.40 per year.
The demand for Hostesses in Riverside is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive job outlook with increasing opportunities in the hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Hostess Make in Riverside, CA?
The salary of a Hostess in Riverside can vary depending on experience and employer, but the general range across experience levels is summarized below.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.58 | $703.20 | $3,047.20 | $36,566.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.71 | $908.40 | $3,922.40 | $47,260.80 |
Do Hostesses in Riverside Earn Tips?
Hostesses generally do not earn tips directly as their role mainly involves greeting and seating guests; however, in some establishments, they might receive occasional tips or bonuses depending on the venue.
Hostess Salary in Riverside vs. National Average
Nationally, Hostesses earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which amounts to about $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Hostesses in Riverside earn somewhat higher, at approximately $17.58 per hour and $36,566.40 annually.
This difference reflects local economic factors and the demand for hospitality workers in Riverside.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Riverside for Hostesses
When examining nearby areas, Hostess salaries include:
- Mission Grove: $19.00 per hour
- Downtown Riverside: $18.50 per hour
Those working in Mission Grove enjoy the highest pay near Riverside, followed closely by Downtown Riverside.
What Influences a Hostess’s Salary in Riverside?
Several factors impact the salary of a Hostess in Riverside:
- Experience and Seniority: More experienced Hostesses generally earn higher wages due to improved customer service skills and efficiency.
- Type of Establishment: Luxury hotels and fine dining restaurants tend to pay better than fast food or casual dining venues.
- Skills and Qualifications: Strong interpersonal skills, multilingual ability, and familiarity with reservation systems can boost earnings.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts may come with higher pay or shift differentials.
- Local Economic Conditions: The cost of living and demand for hospitality workers in Riverside affect wage levels.
How To Become a Hostess in Riverside
Launching a career as a Hostess in Riverside involves several actionable steps:
- Enroll in Hospitality Programs: Consider programs such as Riverside City College Hospitality Program, which offers courses in hospitality management, customer service, and restaurant operations.
- Complete Advanced Studies: The California State University, San Bernardino Hospitality Management Program provides comprehensive education in hospitality and tourism, beneficial for career progression.
- Obtain Relevant Certifications: Certifications like ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensure knowledge of food safety practices and are often required in the industry.
- Attend Responsible Service Training: The TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification is useful for establishments serving alcohol, enhancing employability.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working in entry-level customer service roles helps build essential skills for hosting positions.
Top Employers Hiring Hostesses in Riverside
Some of the prominent employers actively hiring Hostesses in Riverside include:
- The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa
- Red Robin
- California Pizza Kitchen
Establishments That Hostesses in Riverside Work At
Hostesses typically find employment across a range of establishments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These often offer steady hours with moderate pay.
- Fast-Casual and Quick-Service Restaurants: While pay might be lower, these venues may provide flexible scheduling.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Hotels: These usually pay higher wages and may provide tips or bonuses.
- Event Venues and Banquet Halls: Opportunities for hosting during special events can influence earnings.
The type of establishment greatly influences average compensation, with upscale locations generally offering better pay and benefits.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Riverside for Hostess
If you’re interested in careers related to being a Hostess, consider exploring these similar roles:
These include Backwaiter, Fine Dining Server, and Waiter/Waitress positions, which share customer service and hospitality skill sets with Hostesses.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Hostess in Riverside
Hostesses should familiarize themselves with federal and state labor laws to understand their rights and responsibilities:
- Federal labor laws and regulations can be found on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- California state regulations and workplace laws are detailed on the California Department of Industrial Relations website.