Explore Jobs
Find Specific Jobs
Explore Careers
Explore Professions
Best Companies
Explore Companies
Job outlook for restaurant managers in the United States
Restaurant manager job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected restaurant manager job growth rate is 10% from 2018-2028.
About 32,300 new jobs for restaurant managers are projected over the next decade.
Restaurant manager salaries have increased 11% for restaurant managers in the last 5 years.
There are over 133,147 restaurant managers currently employed in the United States.
There are 225,340 active restaurant manager job openings in the US.
The average restaurant manager salary is $52,202.
Are restaurant manager jobs in demand?
Restaurant Manager job and salary trends over time
Restaurant Manager jobs over time
Restaurant Manager job growth rate over time
| Year | # Of Jobs | % Of Population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 133,147 | 0.04% |
| 2020 | 116,086 | 0.03% |
| 2019 | 131,475 | 0.04% |
| 2018 | 123,700 | 0.04% |
| 2017 | 118,281 | 0.04% |
Average restaurant manager salary over time
Restaurant Manager salary by year
| Year | Avg. Salary | Hourly Rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $52,202 | $25.10 | +2.3% |
| 2024 | $51,030 | $24.53 | +2.0% |
| 2023 | $50,034 | $24.05 | +4.2% |
| 2022 | $47,995 | $23.07 | +2.4% |
| 2021 | $46,879 | $22.54 | +4.4% |
Restaurant Manager jobs by state
Most common states for restaurant managers
| Rank | State | Population | # of Jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Wyoming | 579,315 | 266 | 46% |
| 2 | Kansas | 2,913,123 | 1,105 | 38% |
| 3 | Virginia | 8,470,020 | 3,082 | 36% |
| 4 | Tennessee | 6,715,984 | 2,414 | 36% |
| 5 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 2,384 | 35% |
| 6 | Missouri | 6,113,532 | 2,158 | 35% |
| 7 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 2,133 | 35% |
| 8 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 246 | 35% |
| 9 | Minnesota | 5,576,606 | 1,866 | 33% |
| 10 | Illinois | 12,802,023 | 4,135 | 32% |
| 11 | North Carolina | 10,273,419 | 3,309 | 32% |
| 12 | Indiana | 6,666,818 | 2,134 | 32% |
| 13 | Colorado | 5,607,154 | 1,796 | 32% |
| 14 | Kentucky | 4,454,189 | 1,382 | 31% |
| 15 | Montana | 1,050,493 | 324 | 31% |
| 16 | South Carolina | 5,024,369 | 1,489 | 30% |
| 17 | Iowa | 3,145,711 | 948 | 30% |
| 18 | Utah | 3,101,833 | 932 | 30% |
| 19 | Delaware | 961,939 | 292 | 30% |
| 20 | Alaska | 739,795 | 211 | 29% |
Most common cities for restaurant managers
| Rank | City | # of Jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Rock Hill | 17 | 23% | $45,501 |
| 2 | Boynton Beach | 12 | 16% | $50,699 |
| 3 | Atlanta | 30 | 6% | $50,407 |
| 4 | Cincinnati | 17 | 6% | $44,413 |
| 5 | Pittsburgh | 12 | 4% | $47,891 |
| 6 | Aurora | 12 | 3% | $50,129 |
| 7 | Colorado Springs | 12 | 3% | $50,363 |
| 8 | Miami | 12 | 3% | $50,760 |
| 9 | Charlotte | 16 | 2% | $48,019 |
| 10 | Denver | 16 | 2% | $50,125 |
| 11 | Boston | 13 | 2% | $59,852 |
| 12 | Washington | 12 | 2% | $53,914 |
| 13 | Phoenix | 14 | 1% | $53,993 |
| 14 | Austin | 13 | 1% | $51,183 |
| 15 | Jacksonville | 13 | 1% | $50,235 |
| 16 | Indianapolis | 12 | 1% | $46,357 |
| 17 | Chicago | 11 | 0% | $49,434 |
Restaurant Manager job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of restaurant manager experts
University of Memphis
University of New Hampshire
Austin Community College
University of Nevada - Las Vegas
Temple University
University of South Florida
Texas A&M University
New Mexico State University
Coastal Carolina University
Highline College
Indiana University Kokomo
Texas Tech University
University of San Francisco
University of New Hampshire
Dr. Robert Meuret
James B. Beam Institute for Kentucky Spirits Fellow, Distilling, Wine, and Brewing Studies FacultyWhat general advice would you give to a Restaurant Manager?
Dr. Robert Meuret: Ongoing staffing challenges are resulting in historic career opportunities for hotel employees. There are more than 70,000 hotel jobs currently open across the nation, according to Indeed. This means that recent graduates can be more selective in employers. Graduates should be interviewing future employers during the interview process. They should seek out employers with a clear path to growth opportunities, supportive management, competitive benefits (health insurance, 401K with match, PTO, etc..,) and of course competitive wages. Seek out managers who will help you meet your goals, not just theirs. As of December 2023, national average hotel wages were at an all-time high of $23.91 per hour, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
What Restaurant 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 Restaurant 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 general advice would you give to a Restaurant Manager?
Mr. Bill Knapp: Entering hospitality is a seller's market, with the industry expanding rapidly post-pandemic. There is a high demand for managers, leading to multiple job offers for graduates and exciting opportunities to lead teams and contribute to management.
What Restaurant Manager skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Mr. Bill Knapp: Hospitality managers focus on providing exceptional guest experiences, planning ahead, understanding operations, and wearing multiple hats such as being human resource managers, buyers, bookkeepers, and technical experts. They must keep up with industry trends, the economy, and new regulations.
What will help Restaurant 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 Restaurant 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 will help Restaurant 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 Restaurant 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 will help Restaurant 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 Restaurant 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 general advice would you give to a Restaurant 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 will help Restaurant Managers increase their earning potential?
Dr. Markus Schuckert: Get hands-on experience as soon as possible and learn to understand your customers as well as related processes in the back office. Try to understand the business from the cost side and what drives the revenues in your particular area. Depending on the company and your career objectives, manager-in-training programs have advantages over an in-line position. Sign up for international work experience programs if your company offers this opportunity. Travel and see the world to learn about your customers, different markets, and competition.
Franklin Marciales
Adjunct ProfessorAustin Community College
Hospitality Administration/Management
What Restaurant 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.
Bobbie Barnes
Associate Professor in ResidenceUniversity of Nevada - Las Vegas
Hospitality Administration/Management
What Restaurant 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 Restaurant 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.
What general advice would you give to a Restaurant 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 Restaurant 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 general advice would you give to a Restaurant 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 Restaurant 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.
Po-Ju Chen Ph.D.
Professor & Associate Head of Graduate and Undergraduate ProgramsTexas A&M University
Hospitality Administration/Management
What general advice would you give to a Restaurant Manager?
Po-Ju Chen Ph.D.: - Always find opportunities and trainings if offered to enhance your knowledge, skills and abilities needed at the workplace.
- Step up for call for projects - Learning by doing
- Communicate your career aspirations with the Human Resources and your mentors
What general advice would you give to a Restaurant Manager?
Dr. Erinn Tucker-Oluwole PhD: The skills that will be the most important are being a. technologically savvy in your job, b. managing a diverse workforce and customers, c. financial and budget management.
What Restaurant Manager skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Erinn Tucker-Oluwole PhD: There are so many jobs in the hospitality and tourism industry that many graduates have not been exposed to so be open. 1. Gain as much experience as possible through structured internships with companies before you graduate because this allows you to see all of the departments and jobs that the company employees. 2. Apply for management development programs so you can develop management and leadership skills with that company. 3. Join industry associations and getting involved as a member is the best networking tool.
What will help Restaurant Managers increase their earning potential?
Dr. Erinn Tucker-Oluwole PhD: After an offer is made, review all of the responsibilities of the position. Ask for a salary increase. If the number is fixed, then ask for other benefits that are offered by the company which may include e.g. transportation, mobile phone, extra vacation time, professional development funds, etc.
What Restaurant Manager skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Jean Hertzman Ph.D., CCE, CSW, CSS: A passion for serving others, communication, team work, critical thinking, and technical skills and knowledge will never go out of style. However, marketing and social media skills, data analytics, a focus on sustainability, and the ability to work with and develop technology such as AI and robots are increasingly important in all areas of hospitality.
What will help Restaurant Managers increase their earning potential?
Dr. Jean Hertzman Ph.D., CCE, CSW, CSS: Get as much experience while you are in your studies as possible, including part-time jobs, internships, and leadership positions in student clubs and activities. Employers want to see that you understand the industry, can work with others, and truly have the passion for it. Having the skills listed in Question 2 will make you stand out. While it is okay to have some short-term jobs, do not jump around to different companies just for a slightly better wage. Have realistic expectations about salary and benefits. Making the company culture fits you has become just as important. If you show your dedication and willingness to learn in a company, you will be rewarded and promoted.
Sun-Hwa Kim
Associate Professor at Marketing, HRTM, and LawCoastal Carolina University
Hospitality Administration/Management
What general advice would you give to a Restaurant Manager?
Sun-Hwa Kim: Skills such as data analytics will become prevalent, particularly for students aspiring to leadership roles.
Creativity will also gain more importance because service products are going for greater personalization
and experiential value. Hospitality professionals will need to develop stronger flexibility and out-of-the-
box thinking. Furthermore, the ability to handle crises like future pandemics will be vital. Therefore, the
ability to design and execute contingency plans would be a valuable asset for any hospitality
professional.
What Restaurant Manager skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Sun-Hwa Kim: Do your research. Understand the average starting salary for your position and location. Don't be afraid
to negotiate your staring salary, even for your first job. Be prepared to highlight your skills, experience,
and the unique value bring to the table.
Compensating goes beyond just your base salary. Consider other benefits like bonuses and paid time off,
and HR programs that your organization offers.
Salary is important. However, don't lose sight of company culture, growth opportunities and overall fit.
If you like the job and people but the initial offer falls short, consider accepting with a plan to negotiate
internally over time. You can have earning opportunities form within.
Justin Taillon
Professor & Department HeadHighline College
Hospitality Administration/Management
What Restaurant Manager skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Justin Taillon: There are a lot of interesting trends. Yet, one trend is so much more important than everything else that I want to focus on it: The ability to turn data into information. As the famous quote goes, "You can't manage what you don't measure." We have moved to a data-based decision-making model for nearly everything. Those who comprehend statistics, data analysis processes, and how to make wise decisions based on an in-depth comprehension of data will be the top people in the future. The specific software someone needs to know is based on the company and area of hospitality they enter. Thus, beyond my recommendation that everyone learn advanced levels of Excel, make sure you speak to successful professionals in your career areas so you are up to date on data analysis processes and software.
What will help Restaurant Managers increase their earning potential?
Justin Taillon: Complete negotiation coursework! My department has negotiation strategy as a core component of our curriculum. This is seemingly abnormal as I do not see negotiation theory in most curriculums. Yet, students consistently tell me that learning negotiation is one of the most important skills they took away from their undergraduate degree with our institution.
At a minimum, learn about your target, reservation point, BATNA, and win/win strategic approaches to negotiation. If you do not know what those are, then you are not ready to maximize your salary potential yet.
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 Restaurant 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.
What will help Restaurant Managers increase their earning potential?
Mark Meng Ph.D.: Keeping that student mindset may increase your potential. Hospitality is different from
traditional STEM, and that means one still has a lot to learn when practicing in the real-
world business. Four-year higher education will only get your foot in the door. In this
fast-changing industry, keep learning new skills and expending your knowledge base
can push you further.
Charlie Adams Ph.D.
Associate Professor, RHIM Undergraduate AdvisorTexas Tech University
Restaurant, Hotel, & Institutional Management Program
What skills stand out on Restaurant Manager resumes?
Charlie Adams Ph.D.: Specific, measurable skills such as certification for specific activities like bartending or Serve Safe. Demonstrate capabilities through past work experience such as waiting tables, hosting, front desk, housekeeping, etc., that show effort and familiarity with the environment. Also, demonstration of marketing, sales, and/or finance are extremely beneficial. These assessable skills should be found on the resume called out in the job descriptions. Additionally, a person's work experience should reflect their career aspirations and goals. The best measure of future performance is past experience!
What soft skills should all Restaurant Managers possess?
Charlie Adams Ph.D.: Communication, Commitment, and Customers Service are the "Three Cs" of hospitality soft skills. Outstanding communication skills are important for motivating employees and satisfying customers' wants and needs. The hospitality industry employs and serves a wide spectrum of people. Commitment is vital to a successful hospitality career because of the demands placed on employees and managers. People work long hours in jobs that are fast-paced and physically demanding. Customer service is king because our guests pay our salaries and keep hospitality businesses profitable.
What hard/technical skills are most important for Restaurant Managers?
Charlie Adams Ph.D.: Three very important hard skills are operations competency, sales and marketing, and financial acumen. Hospitality businesses are multifaceted and require competencies in both the front and back of the house. Sales and marketing is something every hospitality manager does, and being good at it can mean the difference between the success and failure of a business. Financial acumen means planning, forecasting, and controlling the income and expenses of a hospitality business. Financial skills are crucial to the profitability and growth of hospitality enterprises.
What skills will help Restaurant Managers earn the most?
Charlie Adams Ph.D.: Managers who possess the creativity and knowledge to keep restaurants and hotels profitable during uncertain and difficult economic periods are essential.
With contributions from Dr. Shane Blum
Thomas Maier Ph.D.
Associate Professor, Hospitality ManagementUniversity of San Francisco
School of Management
What skills stand out on Restaurant Manager resumes?
Thomas Maier Ph.D.: Effective communication skills, experience in the field with service and guest relations. Leadership and team-building.
What soft skills should all Restaurant Managers possess?
Thomas Maier Ph.D.: Creating a transformational organization, building a positive and inclusive work culture.
What skills will help Restaurant Managers earn the most?
Thomas Maier Ph.D.: -Driving financial returns
-Recognizing the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion
-Differentiating the customer experience
-Understanding the impact social media and user-generated content has on customer loyalty choice
Daniel Innis Ph.D.
Professor of Marketing and Hospitality ManagementUniversity of New Hampshire
Peter T. Paul College of Business and Economics
What skills stand out on Restaurant Manager resumes?
Daniel Innis Ph.D.: I think the most important skill is a lifelong learning orientation and the recognition by the student/employee that there is always something new to learn. In fact, I shared this with my intro class just this week when I told them that even now, at age 58, I am learning new things every day. That attitude will help one grow into a career and to excel. Another skill that is very much underrepresented is an understanding of revenue management and pricing. The industry is improving on this front, but not enough universities offer a course on the subject to undergraduates. We have it here at UNH, and I developed it a few years ago. It has been a wild success, attracting students from other majors as well.
What soft skills should all Restaurant Managers possess?
Daniel Innis Ph.D.: In terms of soft skills, a warm smile and a welcoming spirit are really important. That comes not from "learning" but from doing what you love. I tell my students to never take a job for money. Take it because it is something that you will love to do. If you love what you do, you are normally an excellent performer, and the money will follow. I have followed that path in my life, and it has worked exceptionally well (I have owned two inns and a hotel in addition to being a professor). You can tell the instant you walk into a hotel or restaurant who loves what they do...and who does not. If you love what you do, you will be a huge success.
What hard/technical skills are most important for Restaurant Managers?
Daniel Innis Ph.D.: I think that an understanding of revenue management is key. I tell my students that in every transaction, every party should feel that they made a "profit." The business gets some money. The customer should get more value than the money that they gave up. If that is the case, then they come back. In addition, the ability to spot opportunities for additional revenue is key. We never charge for parking or internet at our properties as that annoys customers. We did, however, offer beer and wine room service (the front desk staff could handle that) at a great price, and we had a gift shop that was right next to the front desk, again staffed when necessary by the front desk. These two moves did not add expenses to our operation, but they did add revenue and profit. Spotting those easy opportunities to add value for guests is key, and it is great when it also adds to the bottom line.
What skills will help Restaurant Managers earn the most?
Daniel Innis Ph.D.: With respect to earning, I have to go back to the lifelong learning factor. Employees who are willing to learn, to get dirty on the job (figuratively), and who want to understand an entire operation will do well wherever they go. An open mind, willingness to work hard, and a desire to understand what every employee in every operation experiences helps employees to grow and develop personally and professionally to the benefit of the employer.