Hostess Salary in Seattle, WA
Hostesses in Seattle, WA, in 2025, earn approximately $22.02 per hour, which translates to about $880.80 per week, $3,816.80 per month, and $45,801.60 per year.
The demand for Hostesses in Seattle is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy and expanding market for restaurant and hospitality roles in the region.
How Much Does a Hostess Make in Seattle, WA?
The salary of a Hostess in Seattle 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) | $20.76 | $830.40 | $3,589.33 | $43,084.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $22.02 | $880.80 | $3,816.80 | $45,801.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $32.91 | $1,316.40 | $5,692.40 | $68,332.80 |
Do Hostesses in Seattle Earn Tips?
Hostesses typically do not earn tips as part of their compensation. Their role focuses on greeting and seating guests rather than direct service or food delivery, and so their earnings primarily come from their hourly wage or salary.
Hostess Salary in Seattle vs. National Average
Nationally, Hostesses earn an average of around $13.60 per hour and approximately $28,288 per year.
Compared to the national average, Hostesses in Seattle earn significantly more, with about $22.02 per hour and $45,801.60 annually. This is likely influenced by the higher living costs in Seattle and increased demand in vibrant hospitality markets.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Seattle for Hostesses
Nearby areas show somewhat varied Hostess salaries:
- Downtown: $23.50 per hour
- Capitol Hill: $22.80 per hour
Hostesses working Downtown Seattle can expect slightly higher wages compared to Capitol Hill, making it a more lucrative area given the competitive restaurant scene.
What Influences a Hostess’s Salary in Seattle?
Several important factors affect the salary of a Hostess in Seattle:
- Experience and Customer Service Skills: More experienced Hostesses, particularly those with excellent communication and multitasking abilities, tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale or busy restaurants often pay better than casual dining venues or smaller establishments.
- Shift Timing and Duration: Working peak hours, holidays, or weekends can sometimes attract premium pay or overtime.
- Education and Certifications: Having hospitality training or certifications may improve job opportunities and pay scale.
- Location: Salaries can fluctuate based on whether the establishment is in a high-demand district like Downtown or a residential neighborhood.
How To Become a Hostess in Seattle
Becoming a Hostess in Seattle involves several steps that can boost your employability and potential salary:
- Gain Basic Hospitality Training: Programs offered by Seattle Culinary Academy provide comprehensive hospitality and restaurant management knowledge useful for Hostesses.
- Take Community College Courses: South Seattle College offers courses in hospitality management and customer service that can sharpen your skills.
- Obtain Required Permits: The Washington Food Handler Permit is mandatory for all food service workers in the state, including Hostesses.
- Acquire the Alcohol Server Permit: If working in establishments that serve alcohol, the Alcohol Server Permit is essential.
Top Employers Hiring Hostesses in Seattle
Some prominent employers actively hiring Hostesses in the Seattle area include:
- Local Public Eatery
- Mendocino Farms
- Marriott International
Establishments That Hostesses in Seattle Work At
Hostesses in Seattle typically find jobs in a range of hospitality venues, such as casual dining restaurants, fine dining establishments, and fast casual chains.
The type of establishment can significantly influence their salary. Fine dining locations often offer better compensation due to the higher level of service and customer interaction expected, whereas casual or fast casual eateries may have lower wages but potentially more flexible hours.
Additionally, working in larger restaurants or hotels may provide opportunities for advancement and wage increases.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Seattle for Hostesses
If you are exploring careers related to being a Hostess, consider these similar roles in Seattle’s hospitality industry:
These include Backwaiter, Fine Dining Server, and Waiter/Waitress roles, which share some customer service responsibilities and may offer different earning potentials.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Hostesses in Seattle
Hostesses should be aware of relevant labor laws and tax guidelines to better understand work conditions and legal rights:
- Visit the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries website for detailed information on worker rights, minimum wages, and workplace safety.
- The Washington State Department of Licensing website provides essential details on occupational permits and licensing requirements for food service workers.