Sommelier Salary in Akron, OH
Sommelier professionals in Akron, OH, in 2025, earn approximately $31.00 per hour, which translates to about $1,240.00 per week, $5,373.33 per month, and $64,480.00 per year.
The demand for Sommeliers in Akron is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating an increasing need for wine experts and beverage specialists within the hospitality sector of the area.
How Much Does a Sommelier Make in Akron, OH?
The salary of a Sommelier in Akron varies depending on their level of experience and the venue they work for. Below is a breakdown by experience level to give you a clearer picture of potential earnings.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $24.00 | $960.00 | $4,160.00 | $49,920.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $31.00 | $1,240.00 | $5,373.33 | $64,480.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $38.00 | $1,520.00 | $6,573.33 | $78,960.00 |
Do Sommeliers in Akron Earn Tips?
Sommeliers often earn tips as part of their income, especially in upscale restaurants and wine bars. It is common for Sommeliers to earn an additional $10 to $20 per hour in tips depending on the venue and customer generosity, making tips a valuable component of their overall compensation.
Sommelier Salary in Akron vs. National Average
Nationally, Sommeliers earn an average of around $31.00 per hour or about $64,480.00 per year. Sommeliers in Akron, OH, earn approximately the same as the national average, reflecting the city’s competitive hospitality market and demand for skilled wine professionals.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Akron for Sommeliers
Nearby areas offer slightly varied pay scales for Sommeliers, including:
- Canton: $32.00 per hour
- Youngstown: $34.00 per hour
Both Canton and Youngstown provide competitive wages for Sommeliers, with Youngstown offering the highest hourly pay among nearby locations.
What Influences a Sommelier’s Salary in Akron?
Several factors impact how much a Sommelier can earn in Akron:
- Experience and Certifications: Certified Sommeliers or those with recognized credentials like Certified Sommelier or WSET certifications typically earn more.
- Type of Establishment: Sommeliers working in high-end, fine dining restaurants or luxury hotels are usually paid higher wages compared to those in casual settings.
- Skills and Expertise: Advanced knowledge in wine regions, tasting abilities, and customer service elevate earning potential.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening, weekend, or holiday shifts can include premium pay or higher tipping opportunities.
- Local Hospitality Market: Akron's growing restaurant scene supports competitive salaries to attract top talent.
How To Become a Sommelier in Akron
If you want to pursue a career as a Sommelier in Akron, here are some steps to consider:
- Education and Training: Attend reputable programs such as those offered by the American Wine School located in nearby Cleveland or the International Sommelier Guild, which provides both online and classroom training options.
- Obtain Certifications: Pursue certifications like the Certified Sommelier designation through the Court of Master Sommeliers or the WSET Level 2 Award in Wines for intermediate wine knowledge.
- Gain Practical Experience: Work in restaurants or wine establishments to develop your palate, customer service skills, and understanding of wine pairings.
- Network and Stay Current: Join local wine clubs or hospitality organizations and stay updated on wine trends and new offerings.
Top Employers Hiring Sommeliers in Akron
A few well-known employers currently hiring Sommeliers include:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Sommeliers in Akron Work At
Sommeliers in Akron generally work in a variety of settings, including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These provide the highest earning potential due to upscale clientele and extensive wine programs.
- Hotels and Resorts: Luxury accommodations often employ Sommeliers to enhance guest experiences and usually offer competitive salaries.
- Wine Bars and Lounges: These establishments focus heavily on beverage expertise and may offer variable tipping opportunities.
- Casual Dining: While offering broader employment opportunities, these locations tend to pay less than fine dining counterparts.
The type of establishment significantly influences the Sommelier’s salary, with prestigious venues typically providing the best compensation packages.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Akron for Sommeliers
If you're exploring careers related to Sommelier roles, consider the following alternatives within hospitality:
These related positions include Beverage Director, Bar Manager, and Food and Beverage Manager, which also focus on managing beverage services and overall hospitality operations.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sommeliers in Akron
Understanding labor laws and taxation is important for Sommeliers working in Akron.
- Visit the U.S. Department of Labor website for federal labor regulations and employment standards.
- For local employment resources and workforce development in Ohio, check the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services website.