Housekeepers in Washington, DC typically earn around $16 per hour on average. However, this wage can vary significantly based on the restaurant or hotel they work for, their experience level and the type of establishment.
While Housekeepers generally don't receive cash tips at restaurants as Servers or Bartenders might, some establishments offer bonus opportunities or service gratuities that can add an extra $2 to $7 per hour to their earnings. In upscale hotels or venues associated with restaurants, these additional earnings can make a meaningful difference.
Top-Paying Restaurants for Housekeepers in Washington, DC- 1. The Hay-Adams
- 2. The Watergate Hotel
- 3. The Dupont Circle Hotel
- 4. Four Seasons Hotel Washington, DC
- 5. Rosewood Washington, DC
- 6. Hotel Monaco Washington DC
- The Impact of Restaurant Type on Housekeeper Earnings
- How To Find a High Paying Housekeeper Job in Washington, DC
- What’s the Outlook for Housekeeper Jobs in Washington, DC in 2025 and Beyond?
- Is a Housekeeper’s Salary Enough to Live Well in Washington, DC?
- Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Washington, DC Housekeeper Jobs
Top-Paying Restaurants for Housekeepers in Washington, DC
While Housekeepers are more commonly employed in hotels, many of these hotels boast popular and high-end restaurants that indirectly affect the wages and benefits afforded to Housekeeping staff. Working in these establishments often translates to higher pay and more benefits for Housekeepers.
Consider these notable restaurants and their parent hotels, which are known for offering competitive wages to their Housekeeping teams:
1. The Hay-Adams
The Hay-Adams is a historic luxury hotel near the White House, known for its refined dining options and exceptional service. Housekeepers here benefit from the hotel's reputation for high standards and generous employee compensation packages.
2. The Watergate Hotel
Famous for its iconic history and luxurious amenities, the Watergate Hotel houses several acclaimed restaurants. The complex environment helps Housekeepers earn competitive wages supported by a well-established luxury brand.
3. The Dupont Circle Hotel
Located in the historic Dupont Circle neighborhood, this hotel combines stylish dining venues with modern accommodations. Housekeepers enjoy favorable pay rates relative to the local market thanks to the hotel's upscale positioning.
4. Four Seasons Hotel Washington, DC
Known worldwide for exemplary service and luxury, the Four Seasons integrates top-tier restaurants and event spaces. Housekeeping staff here benefit from competitive hourly wages and access to bonuses tied to overall guest satisfaction.
5. Rosewood Washington, DC
Rosewood offers elegant dining and opulent accommodations in the heart of the city. Housekeepers employed here often receive higher hourly wages reflecting the premium nature of the brand, along with additional benefits.
6. Hotel Monaco Washington DC
This boutique hotel features contemporary American cuisine in its restaurant alongside stylish lodging. Housekeepers here benefit from competitive pay in a trendy setting that encourages staff retention and appreciation.
The Impact of Restaurant Type on Housekeeper Earnings
Housekeepers' earnings vary depending on the type of restaurant or hotel setting they work in. Upscale and luxury establishments tend to offer higher base wages due to the premium service standards and clientele expectations.
Housekeepers employed in luxury hotels that feature fine dining restaurants typically enjoy better wages, as these venues generate higher revenue and often include employee benefits and performance bonuses.
- Casual restaurants or hotels: Wages tend to be closer to the minimum wage with fewer tip or bonus opportunities. Tips for Housekeepers are rare but occasional guest generosity can add to earnings.
- Upscale and luxury establishments: Base pay is usually higher and Housekeepers might receive bonuses tied to guest satisfaction. Tips or service charges may be pooled among staff, increasing total earnings by $2–$7 per hour.
Location also matters: hotels and restaurants in central areas of Washington, DC with heavy tourist or business traffic often maintain higher wage standards for Housekeepers to attract reliable staff.
How To Find a High Paying Housekeeper Job in Washington, DC
Tailor Your Resume
Emphasize any prior Housekeeping experience, attention to detail and reliability. Highlight familiarity with cleaning protocols, guest interaction skills or any relevant certifications.
Network Within Hospitality Circles
Connect with industry professionals through local job fairs or online platforms focusing on hospitality opportunities in DC. Personal referrals can open doors to better paying roles.
Look for Upscale Hotels and Restaurants
Target applications toward well-known luxury brands or venues with a reputation for excellent employee treatment and compensation.
Prepare for Interviews
Demonstrate professionalism, punctuality and customer-service orientation. Be ready to discuss how you handle cleaning tasks efficiently and any experiences with guest satisfaction.
Consider Certification Courses
Obtaining Housekeeping or sanitation certifications can boost your profile and may lead to higher wages or promotions.
What’s the Outlook for Housekeeper Jobs in Washington, DC in 2025 and Beyond?
The demand for skilled Housekeepers in Washington, DC is expected to remain steady or grow moderately over the coming years. As tourism rebounds and new hotels and restaurants open or renovate, cleaning and sanitation remain critical.
According to labor projections, Housekeeping roles will continue to be essential, especially as enhanced cleaning standards have become permanent fixtures in hospitality due to health concerns.
Washington, DC’s status as a political and business hub means a steady influx of visitors who require lodging and dining services, sustaining the need for Housekeeping staff at a solid level into 2025 and beyond.
Is a Housekeeper’s Salary Enough to Live Well in Washington, DC?
With an average base pay of about $16 per hour and potential additional earnings from bonuses or gratuities, a Housekeeper in Washington, DC can expect an annual income roughly between $36,000 and $42,000.
Washington DC has a relatively high cost of living, including average rents around $1,700 per month for a one-bedroom apartment, utilities averaging $150 per month and groceries costing roughly $300 to $450 monthly.
While a Housekeeper’s salary can cover basic living expenses, especially if sharing housing or budgeting carefully, it may be challenging to afford luxury living without supplementary income or dual earners.
High-paying positions in upscale hotels and related bonuses significantly improve the ability to live comfortably in the city, underlining the importance of aiming for those roles.
Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Washington, DC Housekeeper Jobs
We selected these positions by reviewing job listings across public platforms, our own hospitality industry contacts and data from employer reviews. The focus was on opportunities that combine competitive pay, good benefits and strong workplace reputations.
Our key considerations included:
- Compensation: Above-average hourly wages and potential bonus structures
- Benefits: Health insurance, paid leave and training programs
- Location: Central or high-traffic areas with steady business and clientele
- Employer reputation: Positive worker reviews and low employee turnover rates
Choosing any of these hotels or affiliated restaurant locations will offer both stability and opportunity for Housekeepers looking to maximize earnings in Washington, DC.
