Hostess Salary in Winston-Salem, NC
Hostesses in Winston-Salem, NC, in 2025, earn approximately $9.71 per hour, which translates to about $388.40 per week, $1,683.07 per month, and $20,196.80 per year.
The demand for Hostesses in Winston-Salem is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for job opportunities in the hospitality and restaurant sectors in the area.
How Much Does a Hostess Make in Winston-Salem, NC?
The salary of a Hostess in Winston-Salem varies based on experience and employer, but here is a general breakdown of earnings at different levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $7.25 | $290.00 | $1,256.67 | $15,080.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $9.71 | $388.40 | $1,683.07 | $20,196.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $32.49 | $1,299.60 | $5,598.40 | $67,579.20 |
Do Hostesses in Winston-Salem Earn Tips?
Hostesses typically do not earn tips as their role focuses on greeting and seating guests rather than direct table service. Their income generally comes from hourly wages without tip supplementation.
Hostess Salary in Winston-Salem vs. National Average
Nationally, Hostesses earn an average of around $13.90 per hour, amounting to about $28,912 per year.
Compared to the national average, Hostesses in Winston-Salem earn less, with approximately $9.71 per hour and $20,196.80 annually. This difference may relate to the local cost of living and market demand in the area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Winston-Salem for Hostesses
Nearby areas offer somewhat higher pay rates for Hostesses:
- Downtown: $12.50 per hour
- Buena Vista: $11.80 per hour
Commuting to these locations could provide enhanced earning opportunities compared to Winston-Salem’s average.
What Influences a Hostess’s Salary in Winston-Salem?
Several factors impact how much a Hostess can earn in Winston-Salem:
- Experience and Customer Service Skills: More experienced Hostesses who excel in greeting and managing guest needs often command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale or fine dining restaurants generally offers higher pay compared to fast food or casual dining.
- Shift and Hours: Evening, weekend, or holiday shifts may provide shift differentials or overtime pay.
- Local Economic Conditions: Salaries are influenced by Winston-Salem’s cost of living and competition within the hospitality industry.
- Additional Responsibilities: Hostesses who also handle reservations, seating logistics, or customer relations might receive higher compensation.
How To Become a Hostess in Winston-Salem
To pursue a career as a Hostess in Winston-Salem, consider the following steps to enhance your qualifications and employability:
- Complete Relevant Education: Programs such as the Hospitality Management Program at Forsyth Tech provide foundational knowledge for entering the hospitality field.
- Enhance Customer Service Skills: Workshops like the Customer Service Excellence Workshop at Winston-Salem State University help develop essential interpersonal skills.
- Obtain Certifications: Earning credentials such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification or Certified Guest Service Professional (CGSP) can boost your resume and job prospects.
- Gain Experience: Start with entry-level roles in restaurants and build hands-on experience in guest greeting and seating.
Top Employers Hiring Hostesses in Winston-Salem
Several notable establishments in Winston-Salem actively seek qualified Hostesses:
- The Katharine Brasserie & Bar
- Crafted – The Art of the Taco
- Mozelle’s Fresh Southern Bistro
Establishments That Hostesses in Winston-Salem Work At
Hostesses in Winston-Salem find employment in diverse settings including casual dining, fast-casual restaurants, fine dining, and hotel restaurants.
The type of establishment influences salary levels as upscale venues tend to pay more to Hostesses to ensure excellent customer experience. Conversely, fast-casual and casual dining locations may offer lower wages but often provide more flexible hours.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Winston-Salem for Hostesses
If you are interested in related hospitality roles, several careers share similar skills and responsibilities with Hostesses:
These include Backwaiter, Receptionist, and Fine Dining Server roles, which often require strong customer interaction skills similar to a Hostess.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Hostesses in Winston-Salem
Hostesses should familiarize themselves with both federal and state labor laws to understand their rights and responsibilities.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and employment information to learn about workplace protections, minimum wage standards, and overtime rules.
- For state-specific regulations, the State of North Carolina's official website offers resources on labor laws and tax guidelines affecting Hostesses in Winston-Salem.