Restaurant Manager Salary in Birmingham, AL
Restaurant Managers in Birmingham, AL, in 2026, earn approximately $29.58 per hour, which translates to about $1,183.20 per week, $5,127.20 per month, and $61,526.40 per year.
The demand for Restaurant Managers in Birmingham is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting promising job prospects and expanding opportunities within the local hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Restaurant Manager Make in Birmingham, AL?
The salary of a Restaurant Manager in Birmingham can vary depending on experience and employer size. Here is an overview of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $21.58 | $863.20 | $3,731.47 | $44,958.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $29.58 | $1,183.20 | $5,127.20 | $61,526.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $40.55 | $1,622.00 | $7,015.33 | $84,344.00 |
Do Restaurant Managers in Birmingham Earn Tips?
Restaurant Managers typically do not earn tips as part of their compensation. Their income is primarily salary or hourly wage-based, reflecting their management role rather than direct service.
Restaurant Manager Salary in Birmingham vs. National Average
Nationally, Restaurant Managers earn about $29.58 per hour and $61,526.40 per year.
In Birmingham, the average salaries for Restaurant Managers align closely with the national averages, indicating competitive pay that reflects both local cost of living and industry standards.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Birmingham for Restaurant Managers
Nearby areas offer slightly varied salary rates for Restaurant Managers:
- Downtown Birmingham: $31.25 per hour
- Mountain Brook: $32.50 per hour
These areas show higher pay rates, potentially due to different market demands and establishment prestige.
What Influences a Restaurant Manager’s Salary in Birmingham?
Several key factors impact how much a Restaurant Manager can earn in Birmingham:
- Experience and Proven Management Skills: More seasoned managers commanding larger teams or complex operations tend to earn higher wages.
- Type and Size of Establishment: Fine dining and upscale restaurants typically pay more than fast-casual or smaller venues.
- Location Within the City: Managers working in busier or more affluent neighborhoods may receive above-average pay.
- Educational Background and Certifications: Advanced hospitality degrees or certifications can enhance salary potential.
- Performance and Business Success: Restaurants with higher revenue may be able to offer better compensation to their management.
How To Become a Restaurant Manager in Birmingham
Becoming a Restaurant Manager in Birmingham involves a combination of education, experience, and certifications.
Local educational opportunities include:
- Jefferson State Community College Culinary and Hospitality Institute - Offers comprehensive programs in culinary arts and hospitality management, preparing students for leadership roles in the restaurant industry.
- University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Collat School of Business - Provides a Bachelor of Science in Management with a focus on hospitality and tourism, equipping students with essential business and management skills.
Certifications relevant to Restaurant Managers include:
- ServSafe Manager Certification - A nationally recognized certification ensuring managers understand food safety protocols, required by many employers in the restaurant industry.
- Alabama Responsible Vendor Program - A state-specific certification focusing on responsible alcohol service, mandatory for managers in establishments serving alcoholic beverages.
Top Employers Hiring Restaurant Managers in Birmingham
If you’re seeking employment as a Restaurant Manager in Birmingham, here are some prominent employers:
- Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar
- LongHorn Steakhouse
- Bojangles'
Establishments That Restaurant Managers in Birmingham Work At
Restaurant Managers in Birmingham typically work across diverse types of establishments:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Often offer higher salaries due to complexity and high expectations.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: These provide steady employment with moderate salary ranges.
- Hotel and Resort Restaurants: May offer additional benefits and competitive pay scale.
- Chain Restaurants and Franchises: Often provide structured career paths and standardized compensation packages.
The salary can vary significantly based on the prestige, size, and location of the establishment.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Birmingham for Restaurant Managers
If you’re interested in careers similar to Restaurant Manager, consider these related roles:
These include Assistant Restaurant Manager, Bar Manager, and Food and Beverage Manager positions, which share similar management and hospitality skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Restaurant Managers in Birmingham
Restaurant Managers need to be aware of specific labor laws and tax requirements in Birmingham and Alabama.
- Visit the Federal website for the U.S. Department of Labor for comprehensive federal regulations.
- For state-specific labor laws, the Alabama Department of Labor website offers valuable resources.
- The City of Birmingham's official site provides information on local business regulations and labor policies.