Sommelier Salary in Kansas City, KS
Sommeliers in Kansas City, KS, 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 Kansas City is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating positive prospects and increasing opportunities for professionals in this role.
How Much Does a Sommelier Make in Kansas City, KS?
The salary of a Sommelier in Kansas City varies depending on experience and establishment, but the following gives an overview by experience level.
| 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 Kansas City Earn Tips?
Sommeliers often earn tips in addition to their base salary, typically receiving an extra $10 per hour in tips. This can significantly enhance their overall earnings depending on the establishment and clientele.
Sommelier Salary in Kansas City vs. National Average
Nationally, Sommeliers earn an average of about $31.00 per hour and around $64,480.00 per year.
Sommelier salaries in Kansas City tend to align closely with these national averages, reflecting competitive compensation in the local market relative to the rest of the country.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Kansas City for Sommeliers
In the regions near Kansas City, salaries for Sommeliers show some variation:
- Downtown: $32.00 per hour
- Westport: $33.00 per hour
These neighborhoods offer slightly higher pay than the general Kansas City average, likely due to their bustling hospitality scenes and upscale dining venues.
What Influences a Sommelier’s Salary in Kansas City?
Several factors influence the salary of a Sommelier in Kansas City:
- Experience and Expertise: Years in the profession and depth of wine knowledge can substantially increase earnings.
- Certification and Education: Formal certifications from respected organizations or wine education can improve salary prospects.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants, luxury hotels, and exclusive clubs often pay more compared to casual or fast-casual venues.
- Responsibilities and Role: Sommeliers involved in wine procurement, inventory management, or training staff may command higher wages.
How To Become a Sommelier in Kansas City
Becoming a Sommelier requires a mix of formal education, certifications, and practical experience. Here are key steps:
- Acquire Education and Certifications: Programs such as the International Sommelier Guild (ISG) Kansas City offer Intermediate and Advanced Wine Certification courses that cover comprehensive wine knowledge.
- Pursue Certification Pathways: The Court of Master Sommeliers provides a structured certification sequence with four levels culminating in the prestigious Master Sommelier title.
- Earn Certified Sommelier Title: Obtaining the Certified Sommelier certification demonstrates a strong grasp of wine service and knowledge.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working in restaurants, wine bars, or hospitality venues helps develop expertise and build professional networks.
Top Employers Hiring Sommeliers in Kansas City
Leading establishments in Kansas City seeking Sommeliers include:
- The American Restaurant
- Bluestem
- Rye
Establishments That Sommeliers in Kansas City Work At
Sommeliers typically find employment in various dining and hospitality venues:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Often pay the highest salaries and offer opportunities to showcase advanced wine expertise.
- Upscale Hotels and Resorts: Provide a prestigious environment and sometimes higher compensation packages.
- Wine Bars and Tasting Rooms: Often serve as entry points or specialized roles with varied pay.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: Usually offer lower salaries but can be good places for gaining experience.
The type and reputation of the establishment play a crucial role in determining a Sommelier's salary.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Kansas City for Sommeliers
If you are interested in pursuing roles related to that of a Sommelier, consider the following options:
These include Beverage Director, Bartender, and Bar Manager positions, which involve related skills in beverage service and management.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sommeliers in Kansas City
Understanding the labor laws and tax rules is essential for Sommeliers working in Kansas City. Some helpful resources include:
- Visit the federal Department of Labor website for comprehensive labor laws and employment information.
- The State of Kansas official site provides details on labor regulations specific to the state.
- For local employment resources and regulations, check the Unified Government of Wyandotte County and Kansas City, KS website.