Valet Salary in Lakewood, CO
Valets in Lakewood, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $17.00 per hour, which comes out to about $680.00 per week, $2,946.67 per month, and $35,360.00 per year.
The job market for Valets is growing steadily at about 2% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing demand for service professionals in Lakewood.
How Much Does a Valet Make in Lakewood, CO?
The salary of a Valet in Lakewood can vary depending on experience and employer, but generally, wages range as follows:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.00 | $840.00 | $3,640.00 | $43,680.00 |
Do Valets in Lakewood Earn Tips?
Yes, Valets often earn tips as a significant part of their compensation. On average, they can make an extra $10 to $15 per hour in tips, depending on the location and the clientele. This can substantially raise their overall earnings beyond their base salary.
Valet Salary in Lakewood vs. National Average
Nationally, Valets earn an average of around $14.50 per hour and about $30,160.00 per year.
Compared to the national average, Valets in Lakewood enjoy higher wages, earning $17.00 per hour and approximately $35,360.00 annually, reflecting the regional demand and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lakewood for Valets
Nearby neighborhoods and their estimated hourly pay for Valets vary slightly:
- Downtown Lakewood: $18.00 per hour
- Belmar: $17.50 per hour
Valets working in Downtown Lakewood tend to earn the highest wages in the area, which could be due to higher traffic and service demand in that neighborhood.
What Influences a Valet’s Salary in Lakewood?
Several factors can influence how much a Valet earns in Lakewood, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Valets who can handle vehicles with greater care and efficiency generally command higher pay.
- Customer Service Skills: Exceptional communication and guest service skills can lead to better tips and sometimes higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Valets at luxury hotels, resorts, or high-end restaurants often earn more than those at casual venues.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts can sometimes offer shift differentials, increasing overall income.
- Local Demand: The busier or more upscale the area, the better the pay and tipping potential.
How To Become a Valet in Lakewood
Becoming a Valet in Lakewood typically involves a few key steps to prepare and qualify for the role:
- Obtain a Valid Driver's License: A current and valid driver's license is mandatory to handle vehicles.
- Complete Defensive Driving Certification: This certification demonstrates advanced driving skills and safety awareness which is often favored by employers.
- Enroll in Customer Service Excellence Program: Offered by Red Rocks Community College, this program focuses on enhancing customer service skills crucial for Valet Attendants.
- Take the Defensive Driving Course: Provided by the Colorado State Patrol, this course improves driving safety and is beneficial for Valet professionals.
Top Employers Hiring Valets in Lakewood
Some of the prominent companies frequently hiring Valets in the Lakewood area include:
- Propark Mobility
- LAZ Parking
- Towne Park
- SP Plus Corporation
- McDonald Automotive
Establishments That Valets in Lakewood Work At
Valets in Lakewood predominantly work at a variety of establishments such as:
- Hotels and Resorts: These places often offer better pay and tipping opportunities due to higher customer volume and expectations.
- Restaurants (Casual to Fine Dining): Establishments serving clientele who value convenience typically hire Valets, with pay varying by restaurant level.
- Event Venues and Casinos: Busy venues that require constant parking management often provide steady work and good tips.
- Shopping Centers and Office Buildings: Larger commercial centers may employ Valets with moderate wages but less tipping potential.
The type and prestige of the establishment directly affect earning potential, with luxury locations providing the highest salaries and tipping opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lakewood for Valets
If you are interested in roles similar to a Valet, here are some related jobs in hospitality and service that might interest you:
The roles listed above include Bellhop, Cashier, and Butler; each shares some customer service and operational duties similar to those of a Valet.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Valets in Lakewood
Understanding labor laws and tax regulations is important for Valets to protect their rights and manage their finances:
- Visit the Official website of the State of Colorado for detailed information on state labor laws and employment regulations.
- The City and County of Denver official site provides resources on local employment standards and guidelines that may apply to nearby Lakewood workers.