Hosts and Hostesses, Restaurant, Lounge, and Coffee Shop
Job Zone 2 - Some preparation needed
Welcome patrons, seat them at tables or in lounge, and help ensure quality of facilities and service.
Median pay: $31,200/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)
Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.
Job outlook: -1.5% projected growth, 2024–2034 — declining.
About 107,700 openings per year, on average, over the decade.
Typical entry-level education: No formal educational credential.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.
• Provide guests with menus.
• Greet guests and seat them at tables or in waiting areas.
• Maintain contact with kitchen staff, management, serving staff, and customers to ensure that dining details are handled properly and customers' concerns are addressed.
• Assign patrons to tables suitable for their needs and according to rotation so that servers receive an appropriate number of seatings.
• Speak with patrons to ensure satisfaction with food and service, to respond to complaints, or to make conversation.
• Inspect dining and serving areas to ensure cleanliness and proper setup.
• Supervise and coordinate activities of dining room staff to ensure that patrons receive prompt and courteous service.
• Answer telephone calls and respond to inquiries or transfer calls.
What's the median pay for Hosts and Hostesses, Restaurant, Lounge, and Coffee Shop?
The median pay for Hosts and Hostesses, Restaurant, Lounge, and Coffee Shop is $31,200 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What's the job outlook for Hosts and Hostesses, Restaurant, Lounge, and Coffee Shop?
Employment for Hosts and Hostesses, Restaurant, Lounge, and Coffee Shop is projected to change -1.5% from 2024 to 2034 - declining.
What education is typically required for Hosts and Hostesses, Restaurant, Lounge, and Coffee Shop?
Typical entry-level education: No formal educational credential.
How many job openings are there each year for Hosts and Hostesses, Restaurant, Lounge, and Coffee Shop?
About 107,700 openings per year, on average, over the decade.