Valet Salary in Madison, WI
Valets in Madison, WI, in 2026, make approximately $16.67 per hour, amounting to about $666.80 per week, $2,889.47 per month, and $34,673.60 per year.
The job market for Valets in Madison is expected to grow by about 5% per year, indicating an expanding demand for this role in the hospitality and service industries within the city.
How Much Does a Valet Make in Madison, WI?
The salary for a Valet in Madison varies with experience and employer, offering different pay scales across entry-level, mid-level, and top earners.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.00 | $560.00 | $2,413.33 | $28,960.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.67 | $666.80 | $2,889.47 | $34,673.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.00 | $800.00 | $3,466.67 | $41,600.00 |
Do Valets in Madison Earn Tips?
Valets typically do earn tips, which can significantly supplement their income. On average, a Valet in Madison may earn an extra $10 per hour in tips, making their total compensation notably higher than the base wage.
Valet Salary in Madison vs. National Average
The national hourly average salary for Valets is about $15.00 per hour, translating to approximately $31,200 per year.
Compared to the national average, Valets in Madison earn slightly more, with an average wage of $16.67 per hour and a yearly income near $34,673.60.
This difference can be attributed to the local demand, cost of living, and the hospitality sector's conditions in Madison.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Madison for Valets
Several areas near Madison offer competitive pay rates for Valets:
- Downtown: $17.00 per hour
- Capitol Area: $16.50 per hour
Working in Downtown Madison may offer the highest pay compared to other nearby areas, reflecting its busy nature and upscale venues requiring Valet services.
What Influences a Valet’s Salary in Madison?
Several factors affect how much a Valet can earn in Madison:
- Experience and Seniority: Valets with several years of experience or supervisory responsibilities often receive higher pay.
- Skills and Certifications: Defensive driving skills, customer service excellence, and emergency training can boost earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Valets working at luxury hotels, event venues, or high-end restaurants generally earn more than those in smaller parking facilities.
- Shift Timing: Night or weekend shifts might include shift differentials or increased tips.
- Location: Working in busier or more affluent neighborhoods of Madison can lead to better compensation.
How To Become a Valet in Madison
Beginning a career as a Valet in Madison involves several foundational steps to improve prospects and income potential.
Required Qualifications:
- Valid Driver's License: Essential for operating vehicles safely and legally.
- Customer Service Excellence Program: Offered by Madison Area Technical College, focusing on crucial customer interaction skills.
- Defensive Driving Course: Provided by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation to enhance driving safety awareness.
- CPR Certification: Preferred by some employers for handling emergency situations.
Developing excellent interpersonal skills and a good driving record are also vital for securing and advancing in a Valet role.
Top Employers Hiring Valets in Madison
Leading establishments and companies employing Valets in Madison include:
- Parking Management Company
- Towne Park
- The Edgewater Hotel
Establishments That Valets in Madison Work At
Valets often find employment across diverse settings in Madison, such as:
- Luxury and Boutique Hotels: Typically offer the highest pay and tipping opportunities due to upscale clientele.
- Event Venues and Convention Centers: Can provide busy seasonal work with potentially higher tips.
- Restaurants and Nightclubs: Valets here may work busier shifts and earn more in tips, especially in popular nightlife districts.
- Medical Centers and Corporate Offices: Usually provide steady, though generally lower, salary levels.
The type of establishment greatly influences a Valet’s salary as well as the tip income earned throughout shifts.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Madison for Valets
If you're interested in careers related to the Valet position, consider the following roles which share similarities in customer service and operational duties:
These include Bellhop, Food Delivery Driver, and Cashier positions, each involving customer interaction and service skills valuable to hospitality environments.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Valets in Madison
Valets in Madison must comply with both state and local labor laws as well as tax requirements to ensure fair working conditions and legal employment.
- Refer to the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development - State labor laws and employment resources for detailed employment standards.
- Stay informed about driving-related regulations through the Wisconsin Department of Transportation.
- For local ordinances and job opportunities, visit the City of Madison Official Website.