Sommelier Salary in Washington, DC
Sommeliers in Washington, DC, in 2025, earn approximately $23.49 per hour, which amounts to about $939.60 per week, $4,071.60 per month, and $48,859.20 per year.
The demand for Sommeliers in Washington, DC, is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and expanding opportunities in the hospitality and wine service industry in the region.
How Much Does a Sommelier Make in Washington, DC?
The salary of a Sommelier in Washington, DC, varies based on experience, skill level, and the type of establishment. Below is an overview of earnings across different career stages.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $17.95 | $718.00 | $3,106.67 | $37,312.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $23.49 | $939.60 | $4,071.60 | $48,859.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $38.61 | $1,544.40 | $6,675.73 | $80,328.80 |
Do Sommeliers in Washington, DC Earn Tips?
Sommeliers often earn tips, especially in fine dining establishments. They can make an extra $10 to $20 per hour in tips depending on the restaurant’s clientele and tipping culture, significantly enhancing their overall income.
Sommelier Salary in Washington, DC vs. National Average
Nationally, Sommeliers earn an average hourly wage of approximately $19.74, translating to a yearly salary of about $41,059.20.
Comparatively, Sommeliers in Washington, DC, earn higher wages at about $23.49 per hour and $48,859.20 annually. This premium can be attributed to the city’s higher cost of living, prestige of local dining venues, and demand for skilled wine professionals.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Washington, DC for Sommeliers
Nearby areas offering some of the highest salaries for Sommeliers include:
- Georgetown: $25.50 per hour
- Dupont Circle: $27.60 per hour
Working in these affluent neighborhoods may provide Sommeliers with more lucrative opportunities due to upscale restaurants and wine bars.
What Influences a Sommelier’s Salary in Washington, DC?
The salary of a Sommelier is influenced by several key factors, including:
- Experience and Expertise: More knowledgeable Sommeliers with years of industry experience tend to command higher salaries.
- Certifications: Certifications like Certified Sommelier or WSET Level 3 Award in Wines validate skills and can lead to better pay.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants, luxury hotels, and upscale wine bars generally pay more than casual dining venues.
- Reputation and Networking: Sommeliers with strong industry connections and excellent customer service skills can increase their earning potential.
- Location and Clientele: Places with affluent customers and culinary prestige, like Washington, DC, tend to offer higher salaries compared to smaller cities.
How To Become a Sommelier in Washington, DC
To start a career as a Sommelier in Washington, DC, consider the following steps:
- Gain comprehensive wine education through institutions like Capital Wine School which offers tailored WSET certifications and wine programs for aspiring Sommeliers in DC.
- Enroll in specialized courses focusing on wine tasting, pairing, and service at The Wine Academy, ideal for those pursuing this career locally.
- Earn professional certifications such as the Certified Sommelier credential, offered by the Court of Master Sommeliers, to prove your wine knowledge and service ability.
- Pursue advanced qualifications like the WSET Level 3 Award in Wines for an in-depth understanding of wines and production.
- Gain practical experience in restaurants, wine shops, or hospitality venues to sharpen skills and build your network.
Top Employers Hiring Sommeliers in Washington, DC
Prominent employers in the area recruiting Sommeliers include:
- Starr Restaurants
- Inn at Little Washington
- BLT Restaurant Group
Establishments That Sommeliers in Washington, DC Work At
Sommeliers typically work in a variety of establishments such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Usually offer the highest pay and expect deep wine knowledge.
- Upscale Hotels and Resorts: Provide varied wine services and often offer competitive salaries along with benefits.
- Wine Bars and Specialty Shops: Can offer excellent earning opportunities through both salary and tips.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Venues: Less common for Sommeliers, these establishments usually offer lower salaries.
The prestige and scale of the establishment heavily influence salary potential, with fine dining and luxury environments typically paying the most.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Washington, DC for Sommeliers
For those interested in roles similar to Sommelier, consider these related careers:
These careers are Beverage Director, Bar Manager, and Bartender, all of which involve a focus on beverage service and hospitality.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sommeliers in Washington, DC
Sommeliers should familiarize themselves with relevant labor laws and tax obligations to ensure compliance and proper management of their employment rights.
- Useful information on federal labor laws can be found on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For local regulations related to employment standards and worker rights, visit the District of Columbia’s Department of Employment Services at does.dc.gov.