Sommelier Salary in Seattle, WA
Sommeliers in Seattle, WA, in 2025, earn approximately $44.91 per hour, which translates to about $1,796.40 per week, $7,784.40 per month, and $93,412.80 per year.
The demand for Sommeliers in Seattle is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy and expanding market for wine expertise and hospitality services in the region.
How Much Does a Sommelier Make in Seattle, WA?
The salary of a Sommelier in Seattle varies depending on experience and the establishment, but here is a general overview of earnings across different levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $36.50 | $1,460.00 | $6,306.67 | $75,520.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $44.91 | $1,796.40 | $7,784.40 | $93,412.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $55.26 | $2,210.40 | $9,548.80 | $114,940.80 |
Do Sommeliers in Seattle Earn Tips?
Sommeliers in Seattle often earn tips as part of their compensation, especially in upscale dining environments. It's common for Sommeliers to make an extra $10 to $20 per hour in tips, which can significantly increase their overall earnings.
Sommelier Salary in Seattle vs. National Average
Nationally, Sommeliers earn an average of around $19.60 per hour, translating to about $40,768 per year.
Compared to the national average, Sommeliers in Seattle earn considerably more, with an average hourly wage of $44.91 and annual earnings of approximately $93,412.80.
This premium reflects Seattle’s higher cost of living and the city's thriving food and wine culture.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Seattle for Sommeliers
Nearby Seattle neighborhoods that offer competitive salaries for Sommeliers include:
- Downtown: $45.50 per hour
- Capitol Hill: $46.00 per hour
These areas are known for their vibrant dining scenes, which often feature establishments willing to pay premium wages for skilled Sommeliers.
What Influences a Sommelier’s Salary in Seattle?
Several factors can influence the salary of a Sommelier in Seattle:
- Experience Level: More experienced Sommeliers tend to command higher salaries due to their expertise and refined palate.
- Skills and Certifications: Advanced certifications such as Certified Sommelier or WSET Level 3 can enhance earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, luxury hotels, and exclusive wine bars usually offer higher pay.
- Location: Salaries can vary based on the neighborhood and the clientele the establishment serves.
- Networking and Reputation: Partnerships with wine distributors and reputation in the industry can open higher-paying opportunities.
How To Become a Sommelier in Seattle
To pursue a career as a Sommelier in Seattle, you can consider the following steps:
- Obtain Specialized Wine Education: Enroll at institutions such as the Northwest Wine Academy located at South Seattle College or the Seattle Wine School, which provide comprehensive wine education and sommelier training.
- Earn Industry Recognized Certifications: Consider certifications like the Certified Sommelier offered by the Court of Master Sommeliers or the WSET Level 3 Award in Wines that demonstrate advanced wine knowledge.
- Gain Practical Experience: Work in restaurants or wine-focused establishments to develop your palate and customer service skills.
- Stay Informed: Continuously update your knowledge about wine regions, vintages, and trends through tastings and seminars.
Top Employers Hiring Sommeliers in Seattle
Some of the top employers looking for Sommeliers in Seattle include:
- Canlis
- Wild Ginger
- Purple Cafe & Wine Bar
Establishments That Sommeliers in Seattle Work At
Sommeliers typically find work in a variety of settings such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Where sommeliers tend to earn higher wages due to specialized service and clientele.
- Luxury Hotels: Often provide opportunities for elevated salaries and benefits.
- Wine Bars and Tasting Rooms: Can offer competitive pay, especially in premium wine markets.
- Casual Dining: Generally offer moderate salaries, with less emphasis on extensive wine knowledge.
The prestige and scale of the establishment often impact a Sommelier’s salary significantly.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Seattle for Sommeliers
If you’re interested in related hospitality careers, consider these roles that share similar skills or environments with Sommeliers:
These include Beverage Director, Bartender, and Bar Manager, all of which involve working closely with beverages and customer service in hospitality venues.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sommeliers in Seattle
Sommeliers in Seattle should be familiar with local and federal labor laws and tax regulations relevant to their occupation.
- For professional licenses and regulations, the Washington State Department of Licensing website is a useful resource.
- The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics website provides valuable data on employment, wages, and industry standards.