Hostess Salary in Wilmington, NC
Hostesses in Wilmington, NC, in 2026, earn approximately $11.23 per hour, which translates to about $449.20 per week, $1,946.53 per month, and $23,358.40 per year.
The demand for Hostesses in Wilmington is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating an expanding hospitality and dining industry in the region with increasing opportunities for Hostesses.
How Much Does a Hostess Make in Wilmington, NC?
The salary of a Hostess in Wilmington varies with experience and employer type, but below is a general breakdown of earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $7.25 | $290.00 | $1,253.33 | $15,080.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $11.23 | $449.20 | $1,946.53 | $23,358.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $28.37 | $1,134.80 | $4,914.27 | $59,009.60 |
Do Hostesses in Wilmington Earn Tips?
Hostesses generally do not earn tips as their role focuses on greeting and seating guests rather than table service. Their income primarily consists of hourly wages or salary without significant tip earnings.
Hostess Salary in Wilmington vs. National Average
Nationally, Hostesses earn an average of around $13.70 per hour, which amounts to about $28,496 per year.
Comparatively, Hostesses in Wilmington earn slightly less, at about $11.23 per hour and $23,358.40 annually. This reflects local market conditions and the cost of living in the area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Wilmington for Hostesses
Nearby areas paying higher wages for Hostesses include:
- Area 1: $12.50 per hour
- Area 2: $13.00 per hour
Hostesses in these surrounding regions can expect salaries noticeably above Wilmington's average, potentially providing better earning opportunities.
What Influences a Hostess’s Salary in Wilmington?
The salary for a Hostess in Wilmington can be influenced by several factors affecting earnings potential and job opportunities:
- Experience: More experienced Hostesses often receive higher wages due to refined customer service skills and familiarity with restaurant operations.
- Skill Set: Strong communication, multitasking abilities, and a friendly demeanor enhance the value an employer places on a Hostess.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants may offer better pay compared to casual or fast-food environments due to higher service expectations.
- Shift and Hours: Evening and weekend shifts might offer shift differentials, increasing hourly pay.
- Local Economy and Demand: Wilmington’s growing hospitality industry and tourism impact wages positively.
How To Become a Hostess in Wilmington
Starting a career as a Hostess in Wilmington involves several actionable steps to enhance employability and skills.
- Complete Hospitality Training Programs: Enroll in programs such as the Cape Fear Community College Hospitality Management Program that offer courses relevant to front-of-house roles like Hostess.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification offer valuable knowledge in food safety, often required by employers.
- Develop Customer Service Skills: Practice effective communication, conflict resolution, and organizational skills essential for Hostess roles.
- Gain Experience: Entry-level positions in restaurants or hospitality venues help build on-the-job skills.
Top Employers Hiring Hostesses in Wilmington
Wilmington features several prominent employers actively seeking Hostesses, including:
- LM Restaurants
- Mellow Mushroom
- Olive Garden
Establishments That Hostesses in Wilmington Work At
Hostesses typically work in various hospitality settings with different impacts on salary:
- Casual Restaurants: These venues offer consistent hours and steady pay but often at entry-level salary scales.
- Fast Casual Establishments: Quickly growing segment with moderate wage levels and opportunities for advancement.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Typically, the highest paying Hostess positions are found here, rewarding refined customer service and professionalism.
- Hotels and Resorts: May provide additional benefits and varied schedules with moderate pay.
The type of establishment influences a Hostess’s salary significantly, with service level and clientele driving potential earnings.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Wilmington for Hostesses
If you are interested in roles similar to Hostess, consider exploring these related careers that also engage in hospitality and guest services.
These include Cashier, Waiter/Waitress, and Fine Dining Server—roles that require strong customer interaction within hospitality environments.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Hostesses in Wilmington
Understanding labor laws and tax responsibilities is crucial for Hostesses to manage employment rights and finances in Wilmington.
- Visit the Federal Department of Labor website for comprehensive information on wage laws and worker protections.
- For North Carolina-specific labor regulations, consult the State of North Carolina's official website for state labor laws and employment resources.