Sommelier Salary in New-Orleans, LA
Sommelier in New-Orleans, LA, in 2026, earn approximately $22.37 per hour, which translates to about $894.80 per week, $3,877.47 per month, and $46,529.60 per year.
The demand for Sommeliers in New-Orleans is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for professionals skilled in wine expertise and beverage service in the region.
How Much Does a Sommelier Make in New-Orleans, LA?
The salary of a Sommelier in New-Orleans can vary based on experience, skills, and employer, but the following breakdown provides a general overview across different levels of expertise.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $18.88 | $755.20 | $3,269.33 | $39,302.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $22.37 | $894.80 | $3,877.47 | $46,529.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $26.51 | $1,060.40 | $4,560.53 | $54,960.80 |
Do Sommeliers in New-Orleans Earn Tips?
Sommeliers often earn tips as part of their compensation, especially in upscale dining establishments. They can typically earn an extra $10 to $20 per hour in tips, depending on the venue and clientele, which can significantly augment their base salary.
Sommelier Salary in New-Orleans vs. National Average
Nationally, Sommeliers earn an average of around $19.62 per hour, translating to about $40,809.60 per year.
Comparatively, Sommeliers in New-Orleans, LA, earn a bit higher than the national average, with an hourly rate of $22.37 and an annual income of $46,529.60.
This higher pay can be attributed to the vibrant culinary scene and strong wine culture in New-Orleans, which drives demand for skilled Sommeliers.
Highest-Paying Areas Near New-Orleans for Sommeliers
Nearby areas offer the following average hourly wages for Sommeliers:
- French Quarter: $24.50 per hour
- Garden District: $23.80 per hour
Those working in the French Quarter may find the highest earnings, likely due to the area's high-end restaurants and tourist traffic.
What Influences a Sommelier’s Salary in New-Orleans?
Several factors affect how much a Sommelier can earn in New-Orleans:
- Experience and Expertise: More years in the role and refined wine knowledge increase earning potential.
- Certifications and Education: Certifications like Certified Sommelier or Advanced Wine Certification can enhance credibility and pay.
- Type of Establishment: Sommeliers at fine dining restaurants or luxury hotels often earn more than those in casual venues.
- Location Within the City: Some districts, like the French Quarter, offer higher wages due to upscale clientele.
- Skills Beyond Wine: Abilities such as customer service, event hosting, and inventory management can also impact salary.
How To Become a Sommelier in New-Orleans
Embarking on a career as a Sommelier in New-Orleans involves a few key steps:
- Engage in Wine Education Classes: Organizations like Wine Institute New Orleans offer courses suitable for beginners and professionals, including certification programs.
- Pursue Advanced Certifications: Programs such as the International Sommelier Guild’s Advanced Wine Certification refine skills.
- Obtain Recognized Certifications: Receiving titles like Certified Sommelier from the Court of Master Sommeliers can elevate your profile.
- Gain Experience in Wine Service: Working in various hospitality settings helps develop practical knowledge.
Top Employers Hiring Sommelier in New-Orleans
Some of the premier employers hiring Sommeliers in New-Orleans include:
- Emeril's Restaurants
- Doris Metropolitan
- GAIA Steakhouse
- Maypop
Establishments That Sommeliers in New-Orleans Work At
Sommeliers in New-Orleans find employment in a variety of settings such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Offering the highest salaries due to an emphasis on wine expertise and customer experience.
- Upscale Hotels: Often provide competitive pay and opportunities to work with exclusive wine collections.
- Wine Bars and Tasting Rooms: These provide hands-on wine service experience with variable pay based on establishment prestige.
- Casual and Casual Upscale Eateries: May offer moderate salaries but valuable experience in client interaction and wine sales.
The type of establishment substantially influences salary, with premium venues usually rewarding Sommeliers more generously.
Related Hospitality Jobs in New-Orleans for Sommelier
For those interested in careers similar to Sommelier, consider these related roles that blend hospitality and beverage expertise:
These include Beverage Director, Bar Manager, and Bartender positions, which share overlapping skills in beverage knowledge and customer service.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sommelier in New-Orleans
Understanding labor regulations and tax responsibilities is important for Sommeliers working in New-Orleans.
- Official information on federal labor laws can be found on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Details specific to Louisiana's labor laws and regulations are available at the Louisiana government website.