Sommelier Salary in Inglewood, CA
Sommeliers in Inglewood, CA, 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 Inglewood is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities and career advancement in this specialized hospitality role.
How Much Does a Sommelier Make in Inglewood, CA?
The salary of a Sommelier in Inglewood varies based on experience and skill level. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings at different stages in the career.
| 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 | $6,586.67 | $79,040.00 |
Do Sommeliers in Inglewood Earn Tips?
Sommeliers often earn tips as part of their income, especially when working in fine dining or upscale establishments. They can earn approximately $10 to $20 per hour in tips depending on the venue and clientele, significantly boosting their overall earnings.
Sommelier Salary in Inglewood vs. National Average
Nationally, Sommeliers earn an average of around $20.26 per hour, translating to about $42,140.80 per year.
Compared to the national average, Sommeliers in Inglewood earn substantially more, at about $31.00 per hour and $64,480.00 annually, reflecting the region's higher living costs and vibrant hospitality industry.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Inglewood for Sommeliers
A few nearby areas offering competitive pay for Sommeliers include:
- Beverly Hills: $29.16 per hour
- Encino: $27.14 per hour
While these areas offer solid salaries, Inglewood remains a favorable location with competitive pay in this field.
What Influences a Sommelier’s Salary in Inglewood?
Several factors can influence how much a Sommelier earns in Inglewood:
- Experience and Expertise: Having years of experience and advanced wine knowledge can lead to higher salaries.
- Certifications: Accredited certifications such as those from the Court of Master Sommeliers or Wine & Spirit Education Trust can enhance pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale restaurants, luxury hotels, or exclusive clubs usually offers better compensation.
- Customer Interaction and Sales Ability: Sommeliers with strong communication and selling skills add value, often reflected in their earnings.
- Local Market Demand: The hospitality landscape in Inglewood and surrounding areas impacts salary levels.
How To Become a Sommelier in Inglewood
Becoming a Sommelier requires a blend of education, experience, and certification. Here are key steps:
- Pursue Formal Wine Education: Programs like the Court of Master Sommeliers, which offers a structured certification program with levels from Introductory to Master Sommelier, are ideal.
- Obtain Industry-Recognized Certifications: Earn credentials such as the Certified Sommelier from the Court of Master Sommeliers or the WSET Level 3 Award in Wines from the Wine & Spirit Education Trust.
- Gain Practical Experience: Work in restaurants, wineries, or retail environments to develop wine tasting and service skills.
- Network and Build Industry Contacts: Engage with local wine communities and hospitality groups in Inglewood.
Top Employers Hiring Sommeliers in Inglewood
Several establishments in and around Inglewood actively seek experienced Sommeliers:
- Four Seasons
- The Dorchester
- République
- Jon & Vinny's
- Alliance Hospitality Group
Establishments That Sommeliers in Inglewood Work At
Sommeliers in Inglewood typically work at a variety of dining and hospitality venues, including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Often pay higher wages and offer generous tips due to upscale clientele.
- Luxury Hotels and Resorts: Provide opportunities for higher salaries along with benefits.
- Wine Bars and Tastings Rooms: These venues may offer variable earnings and commission opportunities.
- Catering and Event Services: Can provide flexible work but with varying pay scales depending on the event.
The level of the establishment greatly affects compensation, with premium venues offering the best financial rewards.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Inglewood for Sommeliers
For those interested in related fields to the Sommelier role, consider the following careers:
These include Beverage Director, Bartender, and Bar Manager positions, which share hospitality and beverage service skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sommeliers in Inglewood
Understanding labor laws and tax regulations is important for Sommeliers working in Inglewood.
- Check the Federal Department of Labor website for nationwide labor laws and employment information.
- Review California state employment regulations at the Employment Development Department website for localized guidance.