Sommelier Salary in Houston, TX
Sommelier in Houston, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $22.88 per hour, which translates to about $915.20 per week, $3,965.87 per month, and $47,590.40 per year.
The job demand for Sommeliers in Houston is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for careers in wine expertise and beverage management in this vibrant city.
How Much Does a Sommelier Make in Houston, TX?
The salary of a Sommelier in Houston can vary based on experience, establishment type, and expertise. Below is a breakdown of average pay at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $20.82 | $832.80 | $3,604.40 | $43,225.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $22.88 | $915.20 | $3,965.87 | $47,590.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $25.14 | $1,005.60 | $4,352.13 | $52,291.20 |
Do Sommelier in Houston Earn Tips?
Yes, Sommeliers in Houston commonly earn tips in addition to their base salary. They can expect to make an extra $10 per hour in tips, which significantly supplements their overall earnings, especially in upscale restaurants and wine bars.
Sommelier Salary in Houston vs. National Average
Nationally, Sommeliers earn about $19.55 per hour or approximately $40,664 per year.
Compared to this, Sommeliers in Houston earn higher wages, with an average hourly pay of $22.88 and annual earnings close to $47,590.40. This difference reflects Houston's dynamic hospitality scene and demand for wine expertise.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Houston for Sommelier
Nearby areas that offer higher pay for Sommeliers include:
- Galleria: $25.14 per hour
- Downtown: $24.50 per hour
Sommeliers working near the Galleria area benefit from the highest pay, often associated with luxury hotels, fine dining restaurants, and exclusive wine shops.
What Influences a Sommelier’s Salary in Houston?
Experience and Certifications: Those with advanced certifications such as the Certified Sommelier or Sommelier Diploma tend to command higher pay. More years in the field also increase earning potential.
Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants, luxury hotels, or exclusive wine bars usually offers better compensation than more casual dining venues.
Skills and Knowledge: Expertise in wine regions, food pairings, and customer service excellence enhances a Sommelier’s value to employers.
Location Within Houston: Salaries can vary significantly by neighborhood, with areas like Galleria and Downtown offering top-tier compensation.
How To Become a Sommelier in Houston
Begin your path to becoming a Sommelier by focusing on education and gaining practical experience.
- Formal Certification Programs: Consider enrolling in structured programs such as those offered by the Court of Master Sommeliers, which include four levels from Introductory to Master Sommelier.
- International Sommelier Guild: Their Sommelier Diploma Program offers comprehensive wine education valuable for career advancement.
- Gain Certification: Earning designations like the Certified Sommelier from the Court of Master Sommeliers or the Sommelier Diploma from the International Sommelier Guild bolsters credentials.
- Hands-on Experience: Work in restaurants or retail wine environments to develop service skills and deepen your knowledge.
Top Employers Hiring Sommelier in Houston
Houston’s culinary and hospitality scene is rich with opportunities. Notable employers looking for qualified Sommeliers include:
- Pappas Bros. Steakhouse
- Cozymeal
- Eddie V's
Establishments That Sommelier in Houston Work At
Sommeliers find positions across multiple types of establishments, each influencing their salary range:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These often pay the highest salaries due to the upscale clientele and extensive wine selections.
- Luxury Hotels and Resorts: Sommeliers here manage extensive beverage programs and enjoy competitive pay as part of large hospitality teams.
- Wine Bars and Retail Shops: Roles here can vary widely but offer chances to earn tips and commissions alongside salary.
- Casual Dining Establishments: Typically offer lower salaries but provide good entry points to the profession.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Houston for Sommelier
For those interested in roles related to being a Sommelier, consider these similar careers:
These include Beverage Director, Bar Manager, and Bartender—roles that involve beverage service and management responsibilities similar to those of a Sommelier.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sommelier in Houston
As a Sommelier working in Texas, it is important to be aware of applicable labor laws and tax regulations.
- For state-specific labor laws and employment regulations, visit the Texas government website.
- For information on federal labor laws and workplace standards, consult the U.S. Department of Labor website.