The average hourly wage for Housekeepers in New York City is around $18 per hour. However, actual earnings can fluctuate significantly depending on the establishment, location and the experience level of the Housekeeper.
If you're asking, "What restaurants or hospitality venues do Housekeepers make the most money in NYC?" this article will guide you through the top-paying spots. We’ll also explore how various factors impact salary and discuss tips, which in some cases can add significantly to overall income.
Top-Paying Restaurants for Housekeepers in New York City- The Impact of Restaurant Type on Housekeeper Earnings
- How To Find a High Paying Housekeeper Job in New York City
- What’s the Outlook for Housekeeper Jobs in New York City in 2025 and Beyond?
- Is a Housekeeper’s Salary Enough to Live Well in New York City?
- Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying New York City Housekeeper Jobs
Top-Paying Restaurants for Housekeepers in New York City
While Housekeepers are more commonly associated with hotels and resorts, many luxury restaurants with extensive private dining rooms and event spaces also employ Housekeeping staff to maintain the premises. In New York City, several upscale and highly reputable restaurants stand out for offering competitive pay and benefits.
Below are some of the top-paying hospitality venues where Housekeepers can maximize their earnings:
1. Eleven Madison Park
Known worldwide for its innovative cuisine and luxurious setting, Eleven Madison Park not only attracts elite clientele but also maintains high standards of cleanliness and presentation. Housekeepers here benefit from competitive wages and a prestigious work environment.
2. Le Bernardin
This Michelin three-star seafood restaurant emphasizes perfection in every aspect, including cleanliness. Housekeepers at Le Bernardin often earn above-market wages due to the upscale nature of the venue and strong emphasis on hospitality quality.
3. Per Se
Located in the Time Warner Center, Per Se is famous for refined French cuisine and exceptional service. The attention to detail extends to all front and back areas, making Housekeeping roles critical to smooth operations and carrying good compensation.
4. The Modern
Situated within the Museum of Modern Art, The Modern combines art and fine dining. Housekeepers here are part of a team focused on maintaining the elegant ambiance which commands strong pay and reliable schedules.
5. Gramercy Tavern
This classic New York establishment is famous for its warm atmosphere and seasonal American cuisine. Gramercy Tavern employs Housekeepers who enjoy steady work and competitive wages reflective of the venue’s reputation.
The Impact of Restaurant Type on Housekeeper Earnings
Housekeeper salaries in New York City vary significantly based on the type of restaurant or hospitality venue they work in. Upscale restaurants and establishments situated in luxury hotels or high-traffic luxury neighborhoods tend to offer higher hourly wages and additional benefits.
Here are some key points regarding the impact of restaurant type on earnings:
- Upscale Fine Dining: These venues generally pay higher base wages (often $20+ per hour) and maintain rigorous standards, meaning Housekeepers earn more and may gain better tips in events or banquets.
- Casual Dining and Chain Restaurants: Wages tend to be closer to minimum wage levels, with less opportunity for tips or bonuses.
- Event Spaces and Banquet Halls: Some Housekeepers earn extra through tips or event-related bonuses, particularly in venues hosting private parties and weddings.
- Certification and Experience: Housekeepers with specialized cleaning certifications or experience in commercial hospitality cleaning often command higher wages.
Regarding tips, Housekeepers typically earn less than front-of-house staff but in high-end event venues or during catering functions, additional gratuities might add roughly $3-$7 per hour on average, supplementing base wages.
How To Find a High Paying Housekeeper Job in New York City
Research the Market
Look for openings in luxury hotels, upscale restaurants and exclusive event venues. These employers are more likely to offer better wages and benefits.
Tailor Your Resume
Highlight any relevant experience in hospitality or commercial cleaning, especially for high-end or fast-paced venues. Include any certifications you have, such as OSHA or hospitality-specific cleaning credentials.
Network Within the Industry
Engage with hospitality job fairs, online forums and local industry groups. Often, referrals and personal connections lead to better job opportunities.
Prepare for Interviews
Demonstrate your knowledge of high cleaning standards and reliability, as well as your ability to work efficiently in busy settings with minimal supervision.
Be Flexible and Available
Being open to various shifts, including weekends and evenings, can increase your chances of landing a premium Housekeeper role.
What’s the Outlook for Housekeeper Jobs in New York City in 2025 and Beyond?
The outlook for Housekeeper jobs in New York City remains stable with a moderate growth projection driven by expanding hospitality, tourism and restaurant sectors. As tourism rebounds post-pandemic, the demand for clean, well-maintained venues continues to rise.
According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of Housekeeping cleaners, including those in hospitality, is expected to increase by 6-8% over the next few years nationally, with New York City seeing rates on the higher end due to dense tourism and dining markets.
Additionally, there is growing emphasis on sanitation and health safety in hospitality venues, increasing the importance and value of skilled Housekeepers.
Is a Housekeeper’s Salary Enough to Live Well in New York City?
A Housekeeper earning around $18 per hour in New York City can make roughly $37,000 annually before taxes, based on full-time hours. Tips and bonuses, while less common for Housekeepers than front-of-house positions, can add supplemental income.
However, New York City has a high cost of living situation. For instance:
- 1-Bedroom Apartment (city center): approximately $3,000 per month
- Utilities (electricity, gas, water): $150–$200 per month
- Groceries (monthly): $400–$600
- Transportation (monthly MetroCard): $127
While it’s possible for Housekeepers to live in New York City on this income, budgeting carefully and possibly sharing housing can significantly improve quality of life. Higher-paying roles and tips, as well as additional secondary income sources, can help bridge the gap.
Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying New York City Housekeeper Jobs
We selected these venues based on current job listings, wage information and industry reputation to highlight opportunities offering competitive pay, good benefits and professional environments.
Key factors we considered included:
- Location: Venues located in high-foot-traffic, upscale neighborhoods with affluent or tourist clientele.
- Employer Reputation: Establishments known for valuing staff through fair wages, benefits and stable schedules.
- Opportunities for Advancement: Employers who offer training, certifications or career progression paths.
By focusing on these criteria, we provide guidance for Housekeepers aiming to maximize their earnings and work in rewarding environments.
