Sommelier Salary in Austin, TX
Sommelier salaries in Austin, TX in 2025 average around $27.62 per hour. This equates to approximately $1,104.80 per week, $4,787.47 per month, and a yearly income of about $57,449.60.
The demand for Sommeliers in Austin is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy increase in opportunities as Austin’s thriving dining scene continues to expand.
How Much Does a Sommelier Make in Austin, TX?
The salary of a Sommelier in Austin varies according to experience and employer type. Here’s a snapshot of the earnings based on different experience levels:
| 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 Austin Earn Tips?
Sommeliers typically earn tips as part of their compensation, often making an extra $10 to $15 per hour in tips depending on the establishment and clientele, which can significantly boost their overall earnings.
Sommelier Salary in Austin vs. National Average
Nationally, Sommeliers make on average about $19.60 per hour and earn around $40,768 annually.
In comparison, Austin’s Sommeliers fare significantly better, earning roughly $27.62 per hour and $57,449.60 annually. This premium reflects Austin’s vibrant food and beverage industry as well as the demand for knowledgeable wine experts.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Austin for Sommeliers
The following nearby areas offer competitive salaries for Sommeliers:
- Downtown Austin: $30.00 per hour
- Westlake Hills: $32.00 per hour
Among these, Westlake Hills offers some of the highest pay rates reflecting its upscale dining establishments and affluent clientele.
What Influences a Sommelier’s Salary in Austin?
Several key factors impact the salary for Sommeliers in Austin:
- Experience and Certifications: Certified Sommeliers or those with extensive industry experience can command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in high-end restaurants, luxury hotels, or exclusive clubs often results in better pay.
- Skills and Reputation: A Sommelier with strong tasting, pairing abilities, and excellent customer service skills is more valuable.
- Location: Salaries tend to be higher in affluent neighborhoods or busy commercial hubs.
- Tips and Commission: Many Sommeliers receive bonuses or commissions on wine sales besides their base pay.
How To Become a Sommelier in Austin
Entering the Sommelier profession in Austin involves some dedicated steps:
- Gain Formal Wine Education: Courses like the WSET Level 2 Award in Wines taught by Somm Space provide foundational wine knowledge and are held in Austin throughout the year.
- Attend Specialized Seminars: Programs such as the IWSG Level 1 Fine Spirits Sommelier Seminar offer focused training on distilled spirits and tasting skills.
- Obtain Professional Certification: Achieving the Certified Sommelier credential from the Court of Master Sommeliers raises credibility and job prospects.
- Advance Your Expertise: Pursuing courses like the WSET Level 3 Award in Wines deepens wine knowledge, beneficial for career growth.
Top Employers Hiring Sommeliers in Austin
Several prestigious employers in Austin regularly seek skilled Sommeliers:
- Uchi
- Jeffrey's
- Emmer & Rye
- The Driskill Hotel
Establishments That Sommeliers in Austin Work At
Sommeliers in Austin typically find roles across various types of establishments:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These locations often offer the highest salaries due to upscale clientele and extensive wine lists.
- Luxury Hotels and Resorts: Provide opportunities for Sommeliers to work in sophisticated environments, often with competitive pay and benefits.
- Wine Bars and Specialty Retailers: While sometimes offering lower base salaries, these provide chances for tips and commissions.
- Event Venues and Catering Companies: Sommeliers here may earn variable wages depending on contracts and events.
The salary variations arise from establishment prestige, customer base, and the complexity of the wine program managed.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Austin for Sommeliers
If you're interested in positions related to Sommelier work, consider these careers:
These include Beverage Director, Bar Manager, and Bartender roles, all of which share elements of expertise in drinks service and hospitality.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sommeliers in Austin
Sommeliers in Austin should be familiar with key labor laws and tax regulations to safeguard their rights and compliance.
- Check federal labor laws and regulations on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For Texas-specific employment standards and resources, visit the Texas Workforce Commission website.