NEW YORK, Aug. 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- A new analysis from OysterLink, the hospitality career platform, reveals that average wages across the U.S. hospitality sector could increase by more than $6,000 annually as a result of stricter immigration enforcement and mass deportation policies.

With foreign-born workers making up 21% of the leisure and hospitality workforce, the industry faces a potential labor shortage crisis that may force employers to raise wages significantly to remain competitive. The OysterLink study, based on Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data and applying a 14.4% wage adjustment (the current wage gap between native- and foreign-born full-time workers), forecasts salary increases across key roles.

This wage impact analysis is part of OysterLink's ongoing labor market research, using publicly available BLS wage data and workforce demographics to identify economic trends affecting hospitality professionals and employers.

Projected Annual Wage Increases:

• Lodging Managers: From $68,130 → $77,941 (+$9,811)
• Housekeepers/Cleaners: From $33,450 → $38,267 (+$4,817)
• Concierges: From $37,320 → $42,694 (+$5,374)
• Receptionists & Info Clerks: From $37,230 → $42,591 (+$5,361)
• Desk Clerks (Hotels/Motels/Resorts): From $34,270 → $39,205 (+$4,935)

About OysterLink

OysterLink is a leading job platform dedicated to the hospitality industry. We connect restaurants, hotels, and hospitality employers with skilled candidates across the U.S.

With job listings, including server jobs in New York City or private chef jobs in Los Angeles, industry insights, and career resources, OysterLink helps professionals build rewarding careers in hospitality.

Media Contact
PR Representative
ana@oysterlink.com 

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SOURCE OysterLink