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Job outlook for managers in the United States
Manager job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected manager job growth rate is 6% from 2018-2028.
About 189,200 new jobs for managers are projected over the next decade.
Manager salaries have increased 4% for managers in the last 5 years.
There are over 1,920,990 managers currently employed in the United States.
There are 1,236,194 active manager job openings in the US.
The average manager salary is $58,651.
Are manager jobs in demand?
Manager job and salary trends over time
Manager jobs over time
Manager job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 1,920,990 | 0.57% |
| 2020 | 1,531,635 | 0.46% |
| 2019 | 1,583,412 | 0.47% |
| 2018 | 1,512,228 | 0.46% |
| 2017 | 1,463,098 | 0.44% |
Average manager salary over time
Manager salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $58,651 | $28.20 | +2.8% |
| 2024 | $57,027 | $27.42 | --0.1% |
| 2023 | $57,112 | $27.46 | +0.5% |
| 2022 | $56,818 | $27.32 | +1.1% |
| 2021 | $56,196 | $27.02 | +1.6% |
Manager jobs by state
Most common states for managers
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 4,077 | 587% |
| 2 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 17,327 | 253% |
| 3 | Washington | 7,405,743 | 16,351 | 221% |
| 4 | Delaware | 961,939 | 2,028 | 211% |
| 5 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 2,726 | 203% |
| 6 | Minnesota | 5,576,606 | 11,055 | 198% |
| 7 | Virginia | 8,470,020 | 16,515 | 195% |
| 8 | Montana | 1,050,493 | 2,018 | 192% |
| 9 | Oregon | 4,142,776 | 7,776 | 188% |
| 10 | North Carolina | 10,273,419 | 19,163 | 187% |
| 11 | Utah | 3,101,833 | 5,703 | 184% |
| 12 | Rhode Island | 1,059,639 | 1,951 | 184% |
| 13 | Georgia | 10,429,379 | 19,071 | 183% |
| 14 | Illinois | 12,802,023 | 23,257 | 182% |
| 15 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 11,042 | 182% |
| 16 | Colorado | 5,607,154 | 10,116 | 180% |
| 17 | North Dakota | 755,393 | 1,277 | 169% |
| 18 | Vermont | 623,657 | 1,041 | 167% |
| 19 | Kansas | 2,913,123 | 4,824 | 166% |
| 20 | Indiana | 6,666,818 | 10,978 | 165% |
Manager job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of manager experts
University of Memphis
University of Minnesota - Twin Cities
University of New Hampshire
Austin Community College
University of Nevada - Las Vegas
Murray State University
Temple University
University of South Florida
Xavier University
New Mexico State University
Weber State University
University of Alaska Fairbanks
Highline College
Indiana University Kokomo
Dr. Robert Meuret
James B. Beam Institute for Kentucky Spirits Fellow, Distilling, Wine, and Brewing Studies FacultyWhat Manager skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Robert Meuret: Our hotel partners and advisory board members really drive what we teach in the classroom. They advise us on the skills and competencies needed in today’s hotels. Hotels are looking for graduates with strong communication skills. Technical skills are also valued, such as proficiency in Excel and Word. Students also need to learn Revenue Management and how data is now driving decision making on hotel rates, events and guest experience, using tools such as STR reports (Smith Travel Research). Thes skills will still be important in the next 3-5 years. AI has the potential to change the hospitality industry by improving efficiency. It could also personalize customer experiences, identify trends, and reduce operational costs. Managing AI related technology may be the next frontier of hospitality management.
What will help Managers increase their earning potential?
Dr. Robert Meuret: The hospitality industry is a global business. Students who are looking to maximize their earning potential should be open to relocating domestically or internationally. Even short stints working overseas can make your resume really standout. Learning another language like Spanish, Chinese, Sign language or Japanese can also enhance your earning potential, especially in bigger US cities and international destinations. Learning the skills I mentioned before is not always enough. Can you prove that you have obtained these skills through industry recognized certifications or digital badges. A digital badge is a tangible representation of an individual’s competencies and skills. They are designed to be easily shareable and verifiable, typically containing verifiable data such as the badge earner's name, the issuing organization, and the criteria met to earn the badge. Here at the University of Kentucky Hospitality Management and Tourism program our students have many opportunities to earn industry recognized certifications and digital badges. For example, students have earned Certification in Analytics, Distillation, Entrepreneurship, ServSafe, CVENT and Google Sheets. Internships are another great way to gain experience while still in school. Employers value work experience, and a summer internship in your chosen field may just be the deciding factor in your hiring and salary. With so many hospitality students graduating from universities all over the world, students will need to really stand out during the application and interview process. The ability to bring your education, experience and proof of skills valued by the employer will put students in a better position to negotiate a higher salary.
What general advice would you give to a Manager?
Dr. Oliver Jones: In the next 3-5 years, certain skills are expected to become increasingly important and prevalent in the hospitality field. These may include: Technological Proficiency, Adaptability and Resilience, Sustainability Awareness, and Cultural Competence.
What Manager skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Oliver Jones: As graduates embark on their careers in hospitality management, my general advice would be to prioritize gaining hands-on experience through internships, part-time jobs, or entry-level positions. Building a strong foundation of practical skills and industry knowledge early on can significantly enhance career prospects. Additionally, networking and building relationships within the industry can open doors to opportunities and provide valuable mentorship. Finally, remain adaptable and open to learning, as the hospitality landscape continues to evolve.
What will help Managers increase their earning potential?
Dr. Oliver Jones: Maximizing salary potential in the hospitality field often requires a combination of factors. Firstly, gaining relevant experience and continually updating skills can enhance marketability and justify higher compensation. Pursuing advanced certifications or specialized training in areas such as revenue management, event planning, or hospitality technology can also command higher salaries. Additionally, networking and building a strong professional reputation can lead to opportunities for advancement and higher-paying positions. Lastly, considering geographical locations and industries within hospitality that offer higher salaries, such as luxury hospitality or corporate hospitality, can also impact earning potential.
What will help Managers increase their earning potential?
Mr. Bill Knapp: Most managers enjoy the variety in their job, performing different tasks and managing various events. The most common complaint is the long hours and job stresses, but efforts are being made to improve work-life balance and reduce stress.
What general advice would you give to a Manager?
Xiaodan Mao-Clark Ph.D.: To maximize starting salary, students should network, gain relevant work experience, and negotiate for fair compensation and relocation packages during job interviews. Researching salary ranges and adjusting for cost of living are also important.
What Manager skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Xiaodan Mao-Clark Ph.D.: A career in hospitality and tourism is extremely rewarding. Employers nowadays are looking for candidates with specialized skillsets. Graduates are encouraged to deepen their skills, polish their communication skills, and stay updated with industry trends.
What will help Managers increase their earning potential?
Xiaodan Mao-Clark Ph.D.: Finance and data analytics skills are becoming more important in the hospitality and tourism industry due to increased competition and generative AI. Graduates with these skills will have an advantage in the job market.
What general advice would you give to a Manager?
Scott Taylor Jr.: This is an interesting question for our field and really is job dependent. I think for a graduate starting their career in hospitality and tourism it will be more about how to budget and plan effectively so that they can enjoy the money they are making no matter what that starting pay is. Going back to my first answer though, being open to new opportunities, learning new things, and a willingness to work more or harder than everyone else goes a long way in an industry that is 24/7 – 365 such as the hospitality and tourism industry.
What Manager skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Scott Taylor Jr.: Understanding how to utilize AI, Data, and Technology in general to understand trends and create interesting experiences for guests will continue to be important skills in the coming years.
What will help Managers increase their earning potential?
Scott Taylor Jr.: Don’t be afraid to take on new roles or learn new skills, this might mean working longer or more hours but, in our industry, the more you know, and the larger skill set you have, especially early in your career the greater number of doors open for you later. Also, given the global nature of our industry if you are open to moving you could find yourself having some great opportunities.
What general advice would you give to a Manager?
Rui Qi Ph.D.: Focus on building your competitive advantages, which can be interdisciplinary. For example, some hospitality students minor in real estate finance to become asset managers for large hotel chains. Others explore the healthcare industry where there is demand for managerial-level employees who oversee the hospitality aspects of healthcare facilities, aiming to improve the experience of patients and their families.
What Manager skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Rui Qi Ph.D.: Knowing how to utilize ChatGPT as a tool for self-empowerment, but also using it appropriately.
Dr. Michael LuBrant Ph.D.
Director, Program of Mortuary ScienceUniversity of Minnesota - Twin Cities
Funeral Service And Mortuary Science
What will help Managers increase their earning potential?
Dr. Michael LuBrant Ph.D.: Our professional relationships are very important in mortuary science. Do everything you can to meet as many people in the profession while a student; take advantage of every opportunity for internship and practicum experiences. Get to know the vendors who visit and serve funeral home clients. The greater your professional network, the more opportunities you will have for employment. Many employment opportunities are presented via 'word of mouth' and through professional connections, which is why it's so important to get to know as many people as possible while still a student. When searching for a job, endeavor to find an employer and mentor who will help you be successful. Consider employment areas in towns and communities that may be new and/or unfamiliar to you - there are many business owners who are actively looking for someone to take over and/or purchase their business as they approach retirement.
What general advice would you give to a Manager?
Dr. Markus Schuckert: Most important: gain work experience. Relevant work experience and a track record will help you to increase your salary potential. Learn as much as possible about your job, including the roles and responsibilities of your colleagues and the management. An upgrade with relevant micro credentials and great networking are a plus.
What Manager skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Markus Schuckert: Hospitality managers oversee various aspects including staff coordination, service management, event planning and design, and real estate development. Across all these professions, the primary goal of hospitality management remains the same: to ensure every customer has a flawless and memorable experience. It is important to stay up-to-date with consumer trends, technology, and AI.
Franklin Marciales
Adjunct ProfessorAustin Community College
Hospitality Administration/Management
What general advice would you give to a Manager?
Franklin Marciales: To maximize your salary potential when starting your career in hospitality and tourism, focus on developing a unique skillset that is in high demand, such as proficiency in a specific language, expertise in a particular type of cuisine or beverage, or advanced knowledge of hospitality software and systems.
What Manager skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Franklin Marciales: In 5 years, the tourism and hospitality industry employees will be expected to prioritize skills such as digital literacy, data analysis, and sustainability. With the rise of technology, hotels, resorts, and travel companies will need employees who can effectively use digital tools to manage customer relationships, analyze customer behavior, and optimize operational efficiency. One of the most effective leadership skills employees should practice is humility. Humility is a soft leadership skill that will help employees to be thoughtful, considerate, compassionate, and understanding.
What will help Managers increase their earning potential?
Franklin Marciales: As a graduate entering the hospitality, travel, and tourism industry, my main advice would be to be flexible, adaptable, and open-minded. I believe students entering the workforce should be prepared to start at the bottom and learn from every experience, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant. It is also very important to build strong relationships with colleagues and superiors, and be willing to take on new challenges and responsibilities as they arise.
Bobbie Barnes
Associate Professor in ResidenceUniversity of Nevada - Las Vegas
Hospitality Administration/Management
What general advice would you give to a Manager?
Bobbie Barnes: I remember hearing from a hospitality executive that managers lose their jobs for one of two reasons. Either their role does not add value, or they as a contributor don’t add value. I believe that the same goes for promotions and salary increases. I encourage recent graduates to apply in their workplaces what they learned in their coursework. By knowing and demonstrating their worth, graduates can make positive contributions to your workplace daily, which enhance opportunities for promotions and salary increases.
What Manager skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Bobbie Barnes: Artificial intelligence continues to automate repetitive hospitality tasks providing time for hospitality managers to focus on creating incredible experiences and authentic guest interactions. As such, leadership competencies in strategic and ethical decision-making, problem-solving, creativity, and teamwork will be critical.
What will help Managers increase their earning potential?
Bobbie Barnes: 1. Sometimes recent graduates say, “It’s just my first job after college.” No, it’s never just a job. Whatever position the recent graduate lands after college, it is important to remember that it’s just an incredibly long interview until the next opportunity. Having this attitude will set graduates up to be promotable within their current company or ready to make a leap to a new opportunity. 2. Hard work is the key to success. Taking initiative and saying “yes” to opportunities to contribute whether it is a project at work or a service initiative within the community provides an avenue to gain new skills and perspectives. Saying “yes” when others say “no” can be a defining moment for a recent graduate.
Dr. Ben Littlepage
ProfessorMurray State University
Educational Administration And Supervision
What will help Managers increase their earning potential?
Dr. Ben Littlepage: Salary is maximized when leaders are sought after. Leaders who pursue meaningful experiences and remain 'market ready' are viewed as an asset to any organization. Leaders must carefully consider where the field is moving and respond.
What general advice would you give to a Manager?
Andrew Lovell: I may be a bit “old school” but I strongly believe that a savvy and skilled manager of employee teams will never fall off this list, and likely will be even more valuable in coming years as the mix of multiple generations in the workforce continues. Communicating well with people as you lead is just essential! Second, without question managers that can utilize AI for efficient and positive experience enhancement in their hospitality environments will be highly sought after. Third, the manager that can create budgets and financial plans that contribute to increased profitability will always be important.
What Manager skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Andrew Lovell: For those entering hospitality management, I always urge folks to be ready to seek opportunities for improvement. This could mean a commitment to networking, seeking out a professional association, or raising your hand for a committee or a project in your workplace. Getting that first job and your foot-in-the-door should not be the start of a period of relaxation. A high potential employee continues to find ways to add value while remaining true to who they are as a contributor and a person.
What will help Managers increase their earning potential?
Andrew Lovell: Have a thirst for knowledge! Take advantage of training and development opportunities. Apply for the management training program that the HR team or corporate office promotes. Be willing to relocate in order to accelerate your career path – do it once and it’ll be easier the next time an opportunity arises! And of course, I’d recommend exploring a master’s degree program in hospitality management or an MBA program to unlock higher earning potential.
What Manager skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Kim Roberts: Business professionals lead organizations by focused efforts that revolve around products/services, processes, and people. Business professionals work to ensure the firm's products and/or services meet customer expectations, with an eye toward an ever-changing market. They manage processes that produce or support the firm's products. This requires the ability to analyze data to make informed decisions, to drive continuous improvement, and to solve problems through critical thinking. Successful business professionals must also create climates that promote teamwork and foster collaboration.
What will help Managers increase their earning potential?
Dr. Kim Roberts: Now is a good time to enter business professions because of the projected growth of employment opportunities. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, "Overall employment in business and financial occupations is projected to grow faster than the average for all occupations from 2022 to 2032." Furthermore, the growth of online learning and online degrees means a full-time job and family commitments are not roadblocks to earning a business degree.
What general advice would you give to a Manager?
Luana Nanu: Boosting your salary potential in the hospitality industry starts with specialized education and gaining experience through internships in diverse settings (Pretty much following my advice of always being open to experiences that can enrich your skills and resume). Networking within the industry through conferences and professional associations can open doors to mentorships and job opportunities (being as involved as possible from as early as possible). Do research on the companies that you are applying too as well as the areas. Look at the brand history and ability to climb within the organization. Don’t be shy and ask in your interview what are the opportunities to advance within the role, or cross training.
Continuously update your knowledge on the latest industry trends and technologies and cultivate a professional online presence to showcase your expertise and achievements (take advantage of all the profession certifications you can get, especially at USF, we provide LinkedIn learn certificates for free).
But I do want to emphasize that the more experience you have, the better the pay. That is why it is important to start as early as possible. And take advantage of your network, especially your professors, ask them to introduce you to key industry professionals.
What Manager skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Luana Nanu: To be open to experiences and to start as soon as possible. Our industry is so diverse, branching into so many fields. The more exposed you get the higher the chances of making yourself competitive. Moreover, I would also advice the graduates to make sure they get enough experience before they graduate, be it paid or not paid experience, any learning opportunity counts. Lastly, dream big, don’t give up, and do not take no for an answer.
What will help Managers increase their earning potential?
Luana Nanu: Firstly, digital literacy and technology proficiency will be essential as the sector increasingly employs AI and data analytics to enhance guest experiences and operational efficiency. Secondly, with a growing focus on environmental sustainability, expertise in sustainable practices such as energy efficiency, waste reduction, and eco-friendly service innovation will be highly valued, there are so many online opportunities to learn about this and even get certifications. Thirdly, cultural intelligence and diversity awareness will be key for catering to a global clientele, requiring professionals to navigate cultural differences and promote inclusivity. Lastly, adaptability and crisis management skills will be indispensable in responding to rapid changes and challenges, ensuring businesses can thrive amid economic, health, or technological disruptions.
What Manager skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Zachary Russell Ph.D.: - A lot could change in the next few years, but many of the current most in-demand skills will likely remain. Communication, teamwork, leadership, and related soft skills are frequently mentioned as high needs for organizations. Unfortunately, a lot of students and new employees think such skills are too obvious or basic, and don't dedicate the effort to developing those skills. It is tough to predict the effect of artificial intelligence, but a lot of the "work" found in many office positions could be automated. However, knowing what the completed work (information) means, how to use it, and how to communicate it to important stakeholders will still be important. A critical aspect of communication is the importance of listening and learning. We often focus on what we want to communicate and don't dedicate enough effort to processing what others want to communicate to us. Listening, learning, and using the information are critical to becoming a successful team member and leader.
- The willingness to learn new technology will be incredibly important in the next 3-5 years. Recent graduates often think the learning is done when they get their diploma, but it is only the beginning. Technology development doesn't stop when someone graduates, and a willingness to learn and use new technologies to make oneself more efficient and effective will be very important. We've already seen the radical changes in office productivity from chatbots like ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot, and Gemini, and the technology is still in its infancy. Skill development in these and other productivity enhancing technologies will be highly important.
What general advice would you give to a Manager?
Dr. Jean Hertzman Ph.D., CCE, CSW, CSS: Be open to all opportunities. The hospitality industry provides you with the incredible ability to work anywhere in the country or the world. Gaining exposure to different locations and cultures increases your hospitality awareness and cultural competency.
While the industry needs plenty of employees and leaders in the traditional segments of and management positions in hotels, food and beverage, resorts, and meetings and events, positions that need people with the skills you have learned in hospitality are available in just about any business. Some growing areas are outdoor recreation, entertainment and film as well as emerging jobs in sustainability, diversity, equity, and inclusion, and technology.
Michael Ault Ph.D.
Director of Master of Professional Communication, Associate Professor of CommunicationWeber State University
Communication And Media Studies
What general advice would you give to a Manager?
Michael Ault Ph.D.: Asking what a communication specialist does is kind of like asking what a Mom does. We can do a little bit of everything. Communication specialists are often hired as managers and supervisors, social media managers, public relations staff and leaders, family councilors, educators, journalists, and just about any other industry you can think of.
What general advice would you give to a Manager?
Jaunelle Celaire: Leadership - the world needs more of these; the ability to lead, craft and grow. Digital literacy - this world is definitely turning digital and virtual is the new trend. Emotional intelligence - there is a vast number of personalities in our world today; individuals grow and it is our job to stay emotionally connected, so we can operate more effectively.
What Manager skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Jaunelle Celaire: Never stop learning! This may consist of going back to school, earning new certifications in your field of study, attending conferences and seminars, and making sure that your time management is always at its finest level of excellence.
What will help Managers increase their earning potential?
Jaunelle Celaire: 2. Leadership - the world needs more of these; the ability to lead, craft and grow. Digital literacy - this world is definitely turning digital and virtual is the new trend. Emotional intelligence - there is a vast number of personalities in our world today; individuals grow and it is our job to stay emotionally connected, so we can operate more effectively.
Justin Taillon
Professor & Department HeadHighline College
Hospitality Administration/Management
What general advice would you give to a Manager?
Justin Taillon: Great first question! First, make sure you understand front-line operations. For example, I built my career in lodging. I completed an internship as a housekeeper to ensure I understood this important division that includes room attendants, laundry, mini-bar, uniforms, and more. Approximately 50% of individuals working in a hotel are employed in the housekeeping division. Later in my career, when I applied for a Director of Operations position, I was able to obtain the position because I understood not only front office but also housekeeping. This is similar in other areas. For example, in food and beverage you need to understand front and back of house operations. In the airline industry you should understand what it takes to be a gate agent before moving to flight attendant or even yield management. Secondly, have a career pathway built for yourself. Do not accept a job without thinking about the long-term strategy of how you plan to leverage that position in the future to your career pathway. Third, I believe hospitality professionals can move up faster than most other areas of business. But you need to work harder and smarter in the first few years. When I write 'smart' I mostly mean being methodical with your career pathway decisions. What I experienced and what I have seen colleagues and my recent students do is work hard and smart, and be in director roles in just a few years. Finally, build a think tank. This is 5ish individuals you admire in the industry. Ask them for advice before major decisions. My think tank proved to be the most important thing I took away from my undergraduate degree. Yes, the classes were good and I learned a lot. But the professors, guest speakers, and industry association professionals (e.g., HFTP, MPI, PCMA, CMAA) proved to be at least as important as the courses.
Mark Meng Ph.D.
Mark Z. Meng, Ph.D. Associate Professor of Hospitality and Tourism ManagementIndiana University Kokomo
Business/Commerce
What general advice would you give to a Manager?
Mark Meng Ph.D.: Analytical skill comes at the top. The hospitality world has becoming increasingly
dependent on data. Crisis and emergency management demonstrated their importance
in the past three years across all areas of the hospitality industry.