Hostess Salary in Washington, DC
Hostesses in Washington, DC, in 2025, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The demand for Hostesses in Washington is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting positive job growth and increasing opportunities in the hospitality industry within the city.
How Much Does a Hostess Make in Washington, DC?
The salary of a Hostess in Washington, DC can vary depending on experience and the type of establishment, but here is a general breakdown of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,430.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Hostesses in Washington, DC Earn Tips?
Hostesses generally do not typically earn tips, as their main duties include greeting customers and managing seating, rather than direct service. However, in some upscale restaurants, Hostesses may receive occasional tips or bonuses depending on the establishment.
Hostess Salary in Washington, DC vs. National Average
Nationally, Hostesses earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which amounts to roughly $30,160 per year.
In comparison, Hostesses in Washington, DC earn slightly less per hour, at about $13.90, and earn an annual salary just under the national average of $28,912.
This difference may reflect local market conditions, cost of living, and demand within the District.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Washington, DC for Hostesses
Nearby neighborhoods offer differing pay rates for Hostesses, including:
- Georgetown: $15.50 per hour
- Dupont Circle: $17.60 per hour
Hostesses working near Dupont Circle enjoy the highest wages compared to other nearby areas, reflecting the upscale dining scene and demand for experienced front-of-house staff.
What Influences a Hostess’s Salary in Washington, DC?
Several factors can influence how much a Hostess earns in Washington, DC, including:
- Experience Level: More experienced Hostesses with better customer service skills often command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, and fine dining venues tend to offer higher wages than casual or fast food restaurants.
- Location: Hostesses working in affluent or high-traffic neighborhoods may receive better compensation.
- Additional Skills: Multilingual abilities, expertise in reservation management software, and proficiency in customer relations can increase salary potential.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts could come with premium pay or bonuses.
How To Become a Hostess in Washington, DC
Launching a career as a Hostess involves key steps and relevant training to improve employability and salary prospects.
Consider enrolling in programs like the Hospitality Management Program at University of the District of Columbia, which offers comprehensive training in hospitality management including customer service and restaurant operations.
Another practical choice is the Culinary Arts Program at L'Academie de Cuisine, which provides hands-on training with focus on fine dining and restaurant service, ideal for front-of-house roles such as Hostess positions.
Certifications can also be valuable. A Food Handler Certification is required for anyone working in food service to ensure understanding of food safety practices.
Additionally, obtaining a TIPS Certification (Training for Intervention Procedures) can be beneficial, particularly in establishments that serve alcohol, as it trains responsible alcohol service.
Top Employers Hiring Hostesses in Washington, DC
Some of the main employers in Washington, DC looking for Hostesses include:
- McDonalds
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Hostesses in Washington, DC Work At
Hostesses typically work in a wide range of hospitality settings, including:
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: These often have higher turnover and require Hostesses to manage seating flow efficiently but might offer moderate wages.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Establishments: Hostesses here may have more responsibilities, such as managing reservations and guest relations, and thus can expect higher pay.
- Hotels and Resorts: Hostesses may work in hotel restaurants or event spaces, where service standards are high and pay tends to be better.
The type of establishment significantly impacts Hostess salary, with more formal venues usually providing better compensation aligned with their service level.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Washington, DC for Hostesses
If you are considering other roles related to being a Hostess, you might explore these similar careers:
These include Receptionist, Backwaiter, and Fine Dining Server roles, all of which involve guest interaction and customer service in hospitality settings.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Hostesses in Washington, DC
Hostesses should be aware of labor laws and tax regulations that affect employment conditions in Washington, DC.
- For detailed information on federal labor regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Local employment laws and workers’ rights can be reviewed at the District of Columbia Department of Employment Services website.