How to Become a Hosts and Hostesses, Restaurant, Lounge, and Coffee Shop in Illinois
Hosts and Hostesses, Restaurant, Lounge, and Coffee Shops in Illinois earn a median salary of $31,080/year, which is 2% above the national average. Illinois has a state income tax of ~4.9%. After taxes and rent, a hosts and hostesses, restaurant, lounge, and coffee shop takes home approximately $711/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.
What a hosts and hostesses, restaurant, lounge, and coffee shop can afford in Illinois
Becoming a hosts and hostesses, restaurant, lounge, and coffee shop in Illinois
Meet education requirements
Hosts and Hostesses, Restaurant, Lounge, and Coffee Shop positions in Illinois typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Illinois. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many hosts and hostesses, restaurant, lounge, and coffee shop positions in Illinois require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Illinois licensure or certification
Illinois may require specific licensing or professional certification for hosts and hostesses, restaurant, lounge, and coffee shops. Requirements vary by state — contact the Illinois Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Illinois
Illinois employs 12,500 hosts and hostesses, restaurant, lounge, and coffee shops. The highest concentrations are in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin and Decatur.
Hosts and Hostesses, Restaurant, Lounge, and Coffee Shop salary by metro area in Illinois
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago-Naperville-Elgin | $31K | $15.08/hr | 9,960 |
| Decatur | $30K | $14.65/hr | 80 |
| Rockford | $30K | $14.26/hr | 280 |
| Peoria | $30K | $14.25/hr | 320 |
| Kankakee | $29K | $14.09/hr | 100 |
| Springfield | $29K | $14/hr | 270 |
| Champaign-Urbana | $29K | $14/hr | 290 |
| Bloomington | $29K | $14/hr | 310 |
Hosts and Hostesses, Restaurant, Lounge, and Coffee Shop salary range in Illinois
Hosts and Hostesses, Restaurant, Lounge, and Coffee Shop careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a hosts and hostesses, restaurant, lounge, and coffee shop make in Illinois?▼
The median hosts and hostesses, restaurant, lounge, and coffee shop salary in Illinois is $31,080 per year ($14.94/hr). This is 2% above the national median of $30,380. Salaries range from $29,120 to $45,980.
What are the requirements to become a hosts and hostesses, restaurant, lounge, and coffee shop in Illinois?▼
Hosts and Hostesses, Restaurant, Lounge, and Coffee Shop positions in Illinois typically require No formal educational credential. Illinois may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Illinois licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a hosts and hostesses, restaurant, lounge, and coffee shop afford to live in Illinois?▼
At the median salary of $31,080, a hosts and hostesses, restaurant, lounge, and coffee shop in Illinois would take home approximately $2,123/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 66.5% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for hosts and hostesses, restaurant, lounge, and coffee shops in Illinois?▼
The highest paying metro areas for hosts and hostesses, restaurant, lounge, and coffee shops in Illinois are Chicago-Naperville-Elgin ($31,360), Decatur ($30,460), Rockford ($29,660). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Illinois have state income tax for hosts and hostesses, restaurant, lounge, and coffee shops?▼
Yes, Illinois has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.9%. On a $31,080 salary, this means roughly $1,538/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.