Sommelier Salary in San Antonio, TX
Sommeliers in San Antonio, TX, in 2026, 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 San Antonio is growing at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job growth and opportunities in the wine and beverage industry within the city.
How Much Does a Sommelier Make in San Antonio, TX?
The salary of a Sommelier in San Antonio varies by experience, skill, and establishment, but the following table outlines typical earnings across different levels.
| 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 San Antonio Earn Tips?
Sommeliers often earn tips in addition to their base salary. Typical tip earnings can be substantial, with many sommeliers making an extra $10 to $20 per hour in tips depending on the establishment and clientele, significantly boosting overall compensation.
Sommelier Salary in San Antonio vs. National Average
Nationally, Sommeliers earn about $27.00 per hour, which equates to roughly $56,160.00 per year.
When compared to the national average, Sommeliers in San Antonio earn slightly more at $31.00 per hour and $64,480.00 annually.
This difference could be influenced by the local wine culture, demand for expert wine professionals, and cost of living factors in San Antonio.
Highest-Paying Areas Near San Antonio for Sommeliers
Some of the nearby areas offering higher salaries for Sommeliers include:
- Downtown: $32.00 per hour
- Alamo Heights: $33.00 per hour
These areas may provide better compensation due to upscale restaurants and hospitality venues seeking expert wine service.
What Influences a Sommelier’s Salary in San Antonio?
The salary of a Sommelier in San Antonio is influenced by several key factors:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Sommeliers with extensive wine knowledge and certifications tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Luxury hotels, high-end restaurants, and exclusive wine bars often pay more compared to casual dining venues.
- Certification and Education: Professional certifications such as Certified Sommelier or advanced WSET qualifications can significantly impact salary.
- Location Within the City: Certain neighborhoods with affluent clientele offer better-paying opportunities.
- Networking and Reputation: Sommeliers well-known in the local scene or associated with prestigious venues may earn more.
How To Become a Sommelier in San Antonio
If you want to pursue a career as a Sommelier in San Antonio, consider the following steps:
- Obtain Foundational Wine Education: Start with courses such as WSET Level 1 and WSET Level 2 offered locally by The Texas Wine School to build your wine knowledge.
- Pursue Certifications: Aim for industry-recognized certifications like the Certified Sommelier from the Court of Master Sommeliers and advanced WSET Level 3 qualification.
- Gain Practical Experience: Work in restaurants, bars, or wine retail to develop service skills and deepen wine expertise.
- Network Within the Wine Industry: Connect with local wine professionals, attend tastings, and participate in wine events to build relationships that can open doors.
Top Employers Hiring Sommeliers in San Antonio
Some of the top employers in San Antonio frequently looking for Sommeliers include:
- Ruth's Chris Steak House
- Republic National Distributing Company
- Napa Valley Wine Academy
Establishments That Sommeliers in San Antonio Work At
Sommeliers in San Antonio find positions across a variety of establishments:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Typically offer the highest salaries due to premium wine selections and customer service expectations.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger venues with wine programs often offer competitive pay and benefits.
- Wine Bars and Tasting Rooms: These venues may offer opportunities for sommeliers to engage directly with wine enthusiasts and often provide tips.
- Catering and Event Services: Sommeliers may be hired for private events which can sometimes pay premium rates.
Each of these settings can influence salary based on the level of expertise required and the clientele served.
Related Hospitality Jobs in San Antonio for Sommeliers
If you are interested in careers similar to a Sommelier, consider exploring the following roles.
These include Beverage Director, Bar Manager, and Bartender, all roles that share overlapping skills and responsibilities in beverage and hospitality management.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sommeliers in San Antonio
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is vital for Sommeliers working in San Antonio.
- Visit the Texas government website for comprehensive information on state labor laws and employment regulations.
- For federal regulations and labor standards, refer to the U.S. Department of Labor's official website.