Sommelier Salary in Cary, NC
Sommeliers in Cary, NC, in 2026, 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 Cary is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities in wine and beverage expertise in the area.
How Much Does a Sommelier Make in Cary, NC?
The salary of a Sommelier in Cary depends on experience and expertise, but here is an overview of earnings across different 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 Cary Earn Tips?
Sommeliers generally do earn tips, as they often work in establishments where personalized wine service is valued. They can earn an extra $10 to $20 per hour in tips, significantly increasing their overall income.
Sommelier Salary in Cary vs. National Average
Nationally, Sommeliers earn an average of about $31.00 per hour and approximately $64,480.00 per year.
The salaries for Sommeliers in Cary, NC align closely with the national average, reflecting local demand and the region's hospitality industry standards.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Cary for Sommeliers
Nearby areas offer slightly different salaries for Sommeliers:
- Downtown Cary: $32.00 per hour
- Preston: $33.00 per hour
Sommeliers working in Preston may find higher-paying opportunities compared to other nearby locales, including Downtown Cary.
What Influences a Sommelier’s Salary in Cary?
Several factors determine a Sommelier’s salary in Cary:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Sommeliers with strong wine knowledge and service skills tend to command higher wages.
- Establishment Type: Fine dining restaurants, luxury hotels, and exclusive wine bars typically pay more than casual dining places.
- Certifications: Advanced certifications such as Certified Sommelier or Advanced Sommelier status from the Court of Master Sommeliers can significantly boost earnings.
- Local Market Demand: Cary’s growing hospitality industry and tourist activity influence salary levels.
- Personal Skills: Abilities in customer service, wine pairing, and sales impact earning potential.
How To Become a Sommelier in Cary
Starting a career as a Sommelier in Cary involves several key steps:
- Education: Begin with introductory courses such as the WSET Level 1 Award in Wines offered by Somm School in Greensboro, NC, which provides a foundational understanding of wine.
- Advanced Learning: Pursue WSET Level 2 Award in Wines to deepen knowledge about grape varieties and wine regions.
- Professional Certification: Obtain the Certified Sommelier certification from the Court of Master Sommeliers to gain recognized industry credentials.
- Further Accreditation: The Advanced Sommelier certification is a valuable goal for those looking to excel, emphasizing comprehensive wine knowledge and service skills.
- Gain Experience: Work under experienced Sommeliers in restaurants or wine establishments to build practical expertise.
Top Employers Hiring Sommeliers in Cary
Notable employers in Cary looking for skilled Sommeliers include:
- AVA Rooftop Bar
- Herons at The Umstead Hotel and Spa
- Academy Street Bistro
Establishments That Sommeliers in Cary Work At
Sommeliers typically work in a range of establishments including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These places often offer higher salaries due to the upscale clientele and extensive wine lists.
- Luxury Hotels and Resorts: Such as The Umstead Hotel and Spa, providing opportunities for higher pay and prestige.
- Exclusive Wine Bars and Lounges: Establishments like AVA Rooftop Bar which value specialized wine knowledge and pairing skills.
- Casual Dining: Sommeliers in casual settings may earn less but can gain valuable experience.
The prestige and type of venue greatly influence income, with upscale and luxury establishments paying premiums for qualified Sommeliers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Cary for Sommeliers
If you’re considering related careers to Sommelier, you may want to explore roles such as:
These include Beverage Director, Bar Manager, and Restaurant Manager—roles that share elements of wine knowledge, hospitality management, and customer service.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sommeliers in Cary
Sommeliers should be aware of the legal framework affecting their employment:
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for detailed information on workplace rights and protections.
- The North Carolina state government website offers specific labor and employment resources relevant to Sommeliers working in Cary.