Hostess Salary in Suffolk, VA
Hostesses in Suffolk, VA, in 2026, earn approximately $16.34 per hour, which is about $653.60 per week, $2,832.27 per month, and $33,987.20 per year.
The demand for Hostesses in Suffolk is growing positively at a rate of 5% per year, indicating promising job opportunities and increased employment prospects in the hospitality sector.
How Much Does a Hostess Make in Suffolk, VA?
Hostess salaries in Suffolk vary based on experience level and skill, but here’s a general overview of salaries across different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.41 | $496.40 | $2,147.07 | $25,832.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.34 | $653.60 | $2,832.27 | $33,987.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $24.44 | $977.60 | $4,218.13 | $50,755.20 |
Do Hostesses in Suffolk Earn Tips?
Generally, Hostesses do not typically earn tips as their primary duties involve greeting and seating guests rather than direct service. However, on rare occasions, some may receive small tips from appreciative customers.
Hostess Salary in Suffolk vs. National Average
Nationally, Hostesses earn on average around $13.62 per hour and about $28,329.60 annually.
Comparatively, Suffolk Hostesses earn more than the national average with an hourly wage of $16.34 and yearly earnings around $33,987.20.
This difference could be due to local cost of living variations or strong hospitality industry demand in Suffolk.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Suffolk for Hostesses
Nearby areas offer slightly different pay rates for Hostesses:
- Harbour View: $17.50 per hour
- Downtown Suffolk: $16.80 per hour
If you’re willing to commute, Harbour View offers the highest hourly rate close to Suffolk.
What Influences a Hostess’s Salary in Suffolk?
Hostess salaries in Suffolk can be influenced by various factors, including:
- Experience: More experienced Hostesses may command higher hourly wages.
- Skills: Strong communication and organizational skills can lead to better pay.
- Type of Establishment: Hostesses working in upscale or higher-end restaurants tend to earn more compared to casual dining venues.
- Shift Hours: Evening and weekend shifts might offer additional compensation compared to daytime hours.
- Local Demand: A higher demand for hospitality staff in growth areas can push salaries upward.
How To Become a Hostess in Suffolk
Starting a career as a Hostess in Suffolk involves a few key steps to improve employability:
- Complete Relevant Education: Programs such as the Hospitality Management Program at Tidewater Community College provide valuable knowledge about restaurant operations and customer service.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: While not always mandatory, obtaining the ServSafe Food Handler Certification can boost your chances of getting hired and demonstrate food safety awareness.
- Develop Customer Service Skills: Experience or training in customer interaction can significantly improve job prospects.
- Gain Work Experience: Entry-level work in restaurants or customer service industries can provide practical skills for Hostess roles.
Top Employers Hiring Hostesses in Suffolk
Several well-known dining establishments actively hire Hostesses in Suffolk, including:
- Applebee's
- Olive Garden
- Red Lobster
Establishments That Hostesses in Suffolk Work At
Hostesses in Suffolk typically find employment in various types of dining establishments such as casual dining, fast casual, and fine dining restaurants.
The type of establishment can impact salary significantly. Hostesses in fine dining venues often receive higher wages compared to those working in fast casual or chain restaurants, due to the level of service required and clientele expectations.
Casual dining places provide consistent hours but usually offer moderate salaries, while fast casual establishments offer entry opportunities but with generally lower pay rates.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Suffolk for Hostess
If you are interested in hospitality roles similar to a Hostess, consider these related positions which have comparable responsibilities and career prospects.
These positions include Backwaiter, Waiter/Waitress, and Fine Dining Server, roles that share customer interaction and service aspects similar to those of a Hostess.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Hostess in Suffolk
Hostesses in Suffolk should familiarize themselves with labor laws and tax regulations that affect their employment.
- You can find comprehensive information on federal labor laws at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For state-specific labor laws and employment regulations, visit the Virginia state government website at virginia.gov.