Hotel General Manager Salary in Washington, DC
Hotel General Managers in Washington, DC, in 2025, earn approximately $65.00 per hour, which translates to about $2,600.00 per week, $11,266.67 per month, and $135,200.00 per year.
The demand for Hotel General Managers in Washington, DC, is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating an expanding market for experienced leadership within the city's thriving hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Hotel General Manager Make in Washington, DC?
The salary of a Hotel General Manager in Washington, DC, varies based on experience, skills, and the size of the establishment. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $53.00 | $2,120.00 | $9,173.33 | $110,080.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $65.00 | $2,600.00 | $11,266.67 | $135,200.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $78.00 | $3,120.00 | $13,520.00 | $162,240.00 |
Do Hotel General Managers in Washington, DC Earn Tips?
Hotel General Managers generally do not earn tips as their compensation is based on a salary or hourly wage. Their responsibilities focus on overall hotel operations rather than direct guest service where tipping would be common.
Hotel General Manager Salary in Washington, DC vs. National Average
Nationally, Hotel General Managers earn an average of about $67.00 per hour, which amounts to approximately $139,360.00 per year.
Compared to the national average, those working in Washington, DC earn slightly less hourly at $65.00 but remain competitive in annual earnings at $135,200.00. This reflects the local market dynamics and cost of living considerations.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Washington, DC for Hotel General Managers
Hotel General Managers in the surrounding areas of Washington, DC, can see varied salary levels:
- Downtown: $134,300 per year
- Capitol Hill: $131,925 per year
These neighborhoods offer salaries slightly below or near the city average, influenced by the hotel size and clientele in those districts.
What Influences a Hotel General Manager’s Salary in Washington, DC?
Several factors impact how much a Hotel General Manager in Washington, DC can earn:
- Experience and Leadership Skills: Those with extensive management experience and proven leadership abilities command higher salaries.
- Size and Type of Hotel: Luxury hotels and large resorts tend to offer higher pay compared to budget or boutique hotels.
- Location: Hotels situated in high-demand areas or tourist hotspots may pay more due to competitive market conditions.
- Education and Certifications: Formal education and certifications can boost earning potential.
- Hotel Performance: A successful track record in increasing hotel profitability can translate to bonuses and salary increases.
How To Become a Hotel General Manager in Washington, DC
Becoming a Hotel General Manager in Washington, DC generally involves a combination of education, experience, and professional development:
- Education: Pursue programs such as the Georgetown University Hotel Management Program or the American University Hospitality Management Certificate to gain foundational knowledge in hospitality operations and leadership.
- Certifications: Obtaining certifications like the Certified Hotel Administrator (CHA) or the Food Safety Manager Certification helps demonstrate industry expertise and commitment to standards.
- Experience: Gain hands-on experience in hotel operations, starting in supervisory roles and advancing to management through demonstrated results.
- Networking: Engage with local hospitality organizations and attend industry events in Washington, DC to enhance career opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Hotel General Managers in Washington, DC
Several well-known organizations actively employ Hotel General Managers in Washington, DC:
- Marriott International
- Hilton
- Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants
- The Ned Hotel
- Modus Hotels
Establishments That Hotel General Managers in Washington, DC Work At
Hotel General Managers typically work in various types of establishments including:
- Luxury and Upscale Hotels: Offer the highest earning potential due to the scale and complexity of operations.
- Business and Convention Hotels: Positions often provide competitive salaries aligned with the volume of guests and events managed.
- Boutique Hotels: While generally smaller, these can offer unique leadership experiences but may pay less.
- Resorts and Extended Stay Hotels: Salaries vary widely depending on location and services offered.
The size and prestige of the hotel often correlate strongly with pay scale differences.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Washington, DC for Hotel General Managers
If you are exploring careers related to Hotel General Manager roles, consider these related positions that involve hospitality management and leadership:
These include Hotel Manager, Restaurant Manager, and Food and Beverage Manager—positions that require robust operational management skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Hotel General Managers in Washington, DC
Hotel General Managers should stay informed about applicable labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and successful employment.
- Review federal labor regulations on the U.S. Department of Labor (federal website).
- For local employment standards and resources, visit the District of Columbia Department of Employment Services (state website).
- Information on government employment policies can be found at the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (federal website).