Sommelier Salary in Dayton, OH
Sommeliers in Dayton, 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 Dayton is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the wine and hospitality industry in this area.
How Much Does a Sommelier Make in Dayton, OH?
The salary of a Sommelier in Dayton can vary depending on experience and specific employers. Below is a breakdown by experience level:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $27.50 | $1,100.00 | $4,766.67 | $57,200.00 |
| 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 Dayton Earn Tips?
Sommeliers often earn tips and service charges in addition to their salary, especially in fine dining or upscale establishments. They can make an extra $10 per hour in tips or more, which can significantly boost their total compensation.
Sommelier Salary in Dayton vs. National Average
Nationally, Sommeliers earn around $31.00 per hour, which is about $64,480.00 per year.
The salary for Sommeliers in Dayton is aligned with the national average, indicating competitive pay that matches broader market trends across the United States.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Dayton for Sommeliers
Nearby areas exhibiting higher pay rates for Sommeliers include:
- Downtown Dayton: $32.00 per hour
- Oakwood: $33.00 per hour
These locations offer marginally higher salaries, reflecting differing market demands and clientele affluence in the surrounding neighborhoods.
What Influences a Sommelier’s Salary in Dayton?
Several factors influence the earning potential of a Sommelier in Dayton:
- Experience and Expertise: Experienced Sommeliers with extensive wine knowledge and certifications tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining and luxury hotels usually offer higher salaries compared to casual dining or smaller venues.
- Certification and Education: Certified Sommeliers or those with credentials like the Certified Sommelier from the Court of Master Sommeliers often enjoy better pay.
- Customer Service Skills: Strong interpersonal skills can lead to improved tips and opportunities for advancement.
- Local Market Demand: The overall economic environment and demand for wine expertise in Dayton affect salary levels.
How To Become a Sommelier in Dayton
Becoming a Sommelier requires a combination of education, practical experience, and certifications. Here are some essential steps:
- Gain Wine Education: Programs like those from the American Wine School provide comprehensive training aligned with the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) certifications.
- Obtain Certification: The Certified Sommelier credential, offered by the Court of Master Sommeliers, includes theoretical exams, blind tastings, and service assessments.
- Work Experience: Hands-on experience in restaurants or wine-focused establishments helps develop practical sommelier skills.
- Develop Tasting Skills: Continuous practice in wine tasting and pairing is crucial for career growth.
Top Employers Hiring Sommeliers in Dayton
Dayton hosts a variety of notable establishments seeking skilled Sommeliers, including:
- Pine Club
- Meadowlark Restaurant
- Salar Restaurant and Lounge
Establishments That Sommeliers in Dayton Work At
Sommeliers in Dayton typically work across different types of establishments such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: High-end venues offer the best salaries and opportunities for tips.
- Hotels and Resorts: Upscale hotels often employ sommeliers to enhance their dining services and wine programs.
- Wine Bars and Lounges: These establishments may provide moderate salaries but opportunities for customer interaction and tips.
- Casual Dining Establishments: These tend to have lower pay but might be suitable for entry-level sommeliers.
The type of establishment significantly impacts the salary, with fine dining and luxury hotels generally offering higher compensation than casual or fast-casual places.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Dayton for Sommeliers
If you're interested in careers related to being a Sommelier, consider these similar hospitality roles:
These positions include Beverage Director, Bartender, and Bar Manager, all of which share related knowledge of beverages and hospitality service.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sommeliers in Dayton
Sommeliers working in Dayton should stay informed about labor laws and their tax responsibilities.
- You can review federal labor laws and employment information on the U.S. Department of Labor's website.
- For state-specific employment services and regulations, visit the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services website.