The average hourly wage for Hostesses in Jackson is around $12 per hour. However, their actual income can vary significantly depending on the restaurant and shift, especially considering tips. While base wages may seem modest, many Hostesses earn additional income through tips, which in Jackson typically range from $2 to $8 per hour, depending on the establishment and clientele.
If you’re curious about which restaurants in Jackson pay Hostesses the most and how factors like restaurant type affect earnings, you’re in the right place. We’ll explore top-paying spots and also discuss strategies to maximize your income as a Hostess in Jackson.
Top-Paying Restaurants for Hostesses in Jackson, MS
Jackson’s dining scene offers a mix of casual and upscale restaurants that provide good earning opportunities for Hostesses. Some venues stand out for higher wages and better tips due to their popularity, ambiance and clientele.
Below are some of the top spots where Hostesses tend to make the most money:
1. Bully’s Restaurant
Known for its classic Southern Hospitality and comfort food, Bully’s Restaurant has been a cherished local favorite for decades. Its steady flow of regular customers and tourists alike creates consistent shifts that help Hostesses boost their income through tips.
2. The Manship Wood Fired Kitchen
This trendy spot is popular for its wood-fired dishes and craft cocktails. The stylish, modern setting attracts a clientele willing to tip well for excellent service, making it a good place for Hostesses to earn more than average.
3. Parlor Market
An upscale restaurant nestled in the Farish Street Historic District, Parlor Market offers farm-to-table cuisine. Its reputation for fine dining means Hostesses often receive higher wages and better gratuities from the sophisticated patrons.
4. Babalu Tapas & Tacos
This vibrant restaurant and bar combine lively atmosphere with flavorful small plates. Babalu’s energetic vibe and crowd of both locals and visitors means Hostesses can enjoy frequent tipping throughout the night.
5. Peach’s Restaurant
With its inviting atmosphere and beloved Southern-inspired menu, Peach’s Restaurant attracts a diverse clientele. The well-established reputation helps Hostesses at Peach’s earn solid wages and substantial tips on busier shifts.
The Impact of Restaurant Type on Hostess Earnings in Jackson
The type of establishment where a Hostess works significantly influences both the hourly wage and tip potential. Here’s how:
- Upscale Restaurants: These venues usually offer higher base pay and have customers who tip generously. Hostesses at these restaurants often benefit from consistent shifts with strong tipping opportunities.
- Casual Dining: While base wages might be slightly lower, casual restaurants tend to have steady traffic, offering predictable tips throughout the shift.
- Chain Restaurants/Hotels: Often pay stable wages but tips can be limited to occasional events or busier nights.
- Experience and Certification: Having Hospitality training or certification can sometimes lead to better schedules and minor wage bumps but isn’t as common in Hostess roles.
On average, Hostesses in casual dining in Jackson may see tip ranges of approximately $2 to $5 per hour, whereas upscale venues might provide $5 to $8 or more per hour in tips, supplementing their base pay nicely.
How To Find a High Paying Hostess Job in Jackson
Research Popular Dining Districts
Target neighborhoods known for upscale dining or trendy restaurants, such as the Fondren District or Eastover, where higher-paying Hostess positions are more common.
Network Within the Hospitality Community
Attend local food events or join Hospitality groups to connect with restaurant managers and staff who can alert you to openings with good pay and tipping potential.
Prepare a Strong Application
Highlight your customer service skills, reliability, and any relevant experience. Include a well-crafted cover letter emphasizing flexibility and professionalism.
Visit Restaurants In-Person
Drop off your resume during non-peak hours and express your interest directly. Showing eagerness and punctuality can make a strong impression.
Leverage Online Job Boards
Use websites listing Hospitality jobs in Jackson and filter for Hostess positions with competitive hourly rates and tip potential.
What’s the Outlook for Hostess Jobs in Jackson in 2025 and Beyond?
The demand for Hostesses in Jackson is expected to remain stable or grow modestly in the coming years due to the city’s expanding food scene and tourist interest. As new restaurants and bars continue opening, especially in thriving neighborhoods, there will be increased need for skilled front-of-house staff.
According to labor market projections, Hospitality roles like Hostesses will maintain steady employment opportunities. Additionally, seasonal events and festivals bring temporary boosts in demand for such positions.
Overall, Jackson’s food service industry is positioned to offer reliable job openings with fair compensation for Hostesses through 2025 and beyond.
Is a Hostess’s Salary Enough to Live Well in Jackson?
A Hostess in Jackson making an average of $12 per hour plus tips can expect an annual income roughly between $24,000 and $28,000, depending on hours worked and generosity of tipping customers.
When compared with the cost of living in Jackson, this income generally suffices for a modest, comfortable lifestyle. For example:
- Average Rent (1-bedroom apartment): Approximately $850–$1,000 per month
- Utilities: Around $150 monthly
- Groceries: Estimated $250–$350 monthly for one person
With careful budgeting, a Hostess earning this wage can cover basic living expenses, though higher-tier restaurants with better tips may provide financial breathing room for savings and extras.
Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Jackson, MS Hostess Jobs
We selected these restaurants based on a combination of factors including competitive pay rates, positive employee feedback on wages and tips and their locations in neighborhoods with strong dining traffic.
Additional criteria included:
- Established Reputation: Restaurants known for consistent patronage and quality service
- Positive Work Environment: Venues noted for fair treatment and benefits where applicable
- Tip Opportunities: Places with a history of Hostess tipping due to busy seatings and customer generosity
These factors combined indicate promising earnings potential for Hostesses seeking the best jobs in Jackson.