Sommelier Salary in Anchorage, AK
Sommelier in Anchorage, AK, 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 Anchorage is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for professionals in this specialized hospitality role.
How Much Does a Sommelier Make in Anchorage, AK?
The salary of a Sommelier in Anchorage varies with experience and the establishment, ranging from entry-level to top earners.
| 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 | $5,366.67 | $64,480.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $38.00 | $1,520.00 | $6,586.67 | $79,040.00 |
Do Sommeliers in Anchorage Earn Tips?
Sommeliers often earn tips as part of their compensation, which can add an estimated $10 to $20 per hour in tips, depending on the restaurant and clientele, contributing significantly to their overall earnings.
Sommelier Salary in Anchorage vs. National Average
Nationally, Sommeliers earn an average of around $19.59 per hour, translating to about $40,747.20 per year.
Compared to the national average, Sommeliers in Anchorage earn significantly more, averaging $31.00 per hour and $64,480.00 annually.
This higher pay reflects Anchorage's market demand and the specialized skills required of Sommeliers in the region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Anchorage for Sommeliers
Within the Anchorage area, salaries for Sommeliers can vary slightly by neighborhood:
- Downtown Anchorage: $32.00 per hour
- Midtown Anchorage: $31.50 per hour
Dinner-focused establishments and wine bars in Downtown Anchorage might offer the highest pay rates for Sommeliers.
What Influences a Sommelier’s Salary in Anchorage?
Several key factors influence the salary potential of a Sommelier in Anchorage:
- Experience Level: More years of experience and a proven ability to manage wine selections and staff often lead to higher compensation.
- Skills and Certifications: Knowledge of international wines and certifications such as Certified Sommelier can increase earning ability.
- Type of Establishment: Sommeliers working at upscale restaurants, luxury hotels, or fine dining establishments tend to earn more compared to casual dining venues.
- Location Within Anchorage: Salaries can fluctuate slightly depending on whether the establishment is in high-traffic areas like Downtown or Midtown.
How To Become a Sommelier in Anchorage
Embarking on a career as a Sommelier in Anchorage can be guided by these important steps:
- Pursue Culinary Arts Training: Programs like the UAA Culinary Arts Program offer foundational knowledge valuable for hospitality careers.
- Complete Hospitality Customer Service Training: The AlaskaHost Customer Service Training equips individuals with important skills in service excellence.
- Acquire Food and Alcohol Service Certifications: Certifications such as Alaska Alcohol Server Training and Certified Food Protection Manager are often mandatory.
- Gain Experience in Restaurants or Wineries: Practical work in beverage service or wine retail helps build expertise.
Top Employers Hiring Sommeliers in Anchorage
Some of the prominent employers looking for Sommeliers in Anchorage include:
- Marriott Anchorage Downtown
- The Hotel Captain Cook
- Alyeska Resort
Establishments That Sommeliers in Anchorage Work At
Sommeliers typically work in the following types of establishments:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These establishments usually offer the highest salaries and expect extensive wine knowledge.
- Luxury Hotels and Resorts: Employers like The Hotel Captain Cook and Alyeska Resort value Sommeliers to enhance guest experiences.
- Wine Bars and Specialty Beverage Retailers: Positions here depend heavily on the venue's reputation and client base.
- Casual Dining and Upscale Casual Venues: These may offer lower pay but provide valuable experience.
The type and prestige of the establishment greatly influence the Sommelier's salary, with fine dining venues generally offering premium compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Anchorage for Sommeliers
If you are interested in careers related to being a Sommelier, consider the following similar roles that often intersect within the hospitality industry.
These include Beverage Director, Bartender, and Bar Manager roles, which share responsibilities in beverage service and management.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sommeliers in Anchorage
Sommeliers should be aware of state and federal regulations concerning their employment and taxation.
- For comprehensive information on U.S. labor laws, visit the Federal Department of Labor website.
- The Alaska Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development offers resources on business licensing and hospitality regulations.
- For employment laws and workforce services within Alaska, consult the Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development.