Hostess in St. Petersburg, FL
Hostesses in St. Petersburg, FL, in 2025, earn approximately $15.31 per hour, which translates to about $612.40 per week, $2,653.73 per month, and $31,844.80 per year.
The demand for Hostesses in St. Petersburg is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy and expanding market in the hospitality sector and opportunities for front-of-house roles.
How Much Does a Hostess Make in St. Petersburg, FL?
The salary of a Hostess in St. Petersburg 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) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.31 | $612.40 | $2,653.73 | $31,844.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $41.89 | $1,675.60 | $7,223.47 | $86,680.00 |
Do Hostesses in St. Petersburg Earn Tips?
Hostesses typically do not earn tips as their role primarily involves greeting and seating guests rather than serving food or drinks directly. Their income mainly comes from wages or salary rather than gratuities.
Hostess Salary in St. Petersburg vs. National Average
Nationally, Hostesses earn an average of around $13.67 per hour, translating to about $28,433.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Hostesses in St. Petersburg earn more, with an average hourly wage of $15.31 and an annual salary of approximately $31,844.80.
This difference can be attributed to local factors such as demand, living costs, and hospitality industry growth in Florida.
Highest-Paying Areas Near St. Petersburg for Hostesses
Nearby areas offer slightly different pay rates for Hostesses:
- Downtown: $16.50 per hour
- Historic Old Northeast: $16.00 per hour
Working in Downtown tends to offer the highest pay for Hostesses near St. Petersburg, followed closely by Historic Old Northeast.
What Influences a Hostess’s Salary in St. Petersburg?
Several key factors influence the salary of a Hostess in St. Petersburg:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Hostesses with strong customer service skills generally command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Hostesses in upscale restaurants or hotels often earn more compared to those in casual eateries.
- Shift and Hours Worked: Working peak hours, weekends, or holidays may include premium pay opportunities.
- Local Demand: Higher demand for hospitality staff in busy tourist or dining areas can boost salaries.
- Certifications: Possessing related certifications in hospitality or food safety can favorably impact earnings.
How To Become a Hostess in St. Petersburg
Beginning a career as a Hostess in St. Petersburg requires a few practical steps and education options to improve your prospects:
- Complete Hospitality Education: Enroll in a Hospitality Management Program at St. Petersburg College which prepares students for a range of roles in the hospitality industry.
- Consider Culinary or Front-of-House Training: Programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Pinellas Technical College provide relevant skills useful to Hostesses.
- Obtain Relevant Certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification or Certified Guest Service Professional (CGSP) demonstrate important knowledge and customer service abilities valued by employers.
- Gain Experience: Entry-level positions or internships in restaurants help develop communication and seating management proficiency.
Top Employers Hiring Hostesses in St. Petersburg
Some of the prominent employers in St. Petersburg currently hiring Hostesses include:
- The Birchwood
- The Canopy Rooftop Lounge
- 400 Beach Seafood & Tap House
Establishments That Hostesses in St. Petersburg Work At
Hostesses in St. Petersburg typically work at a variety of establishments including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer moderate pay and a fast-paced work environment.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Eateries: Often provide higher salaries and may include bonuses or benefits.
- Hotels and Resorts: Hostesses in these locations may enjoy more stable hours and additional perks.
- Event Venues and Banquet Halls: These settings may have varying pay based on event schedules and volume.
The type of establishment directly affects salary, with fine dining and hotel environments generally offering better pay and advancement opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in St. Petersburg for Hostesses
If you are interested in similar roles within the hospitality industry, here are some related positions you might consider:
These include Cashier, Waiter/Waitress, and Banquet Server roles, which also focus on guest interaction and service.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Hostesses in St. Petersburg
Hostesses should stay informed about labor laws and tax requirements to ensure proper employment conditions and compliance.
- For federal labor laws and employment information, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For information specific to Florida's state laws and regulations, refer to the official State of Florida website.