Restaurant Manager Salary in Boulder, CO
Restaurant Managers in Boulder, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $29.22 per hour, which translates to about $1,168.80 per week, $5,064.80 per month, and $60,777.60 per year.
The demand for Restaurant Managers in Boulder is growing steadily at about 2% per year, indicating a positive job outlook and increasing opportunities in the local restaurant industry.
How Much Does a Restaurant Manager Make in Boulder, CO?
The salary of a Restaurant Manager in Boulder can vary based on experience, skill set, and the type of establishment. Here's a breakdown of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $24.16 | $966.40 | $4,179.47 | $50,227.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $29.22 | $1,168.80 | $5,064.80 | $60,777.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $35.33 | $1,413.20 | $6,108.13 | $73,366.40 |
Do Restaurant Managers in Boulder Earn Tips?
Generally, Restaurant Managers do not earn tips as part of their compensation package. Their income is largely based on salary or hourly wages rather than gratuities, since managerial roles typically focus on overseeing operations rather than direct customer service.
Restaurant Manager Salary in Boulder vs. National Average
Nationally, Restaurant Managers earn an average of around $31.40 per hour, which amounts to about $65,312 annually.
Compared to the national average, Restaurant Managers in Boulder earn slightly less hourly at $29.22 per hour and $60,777.60 annually, reflecting regional economic differences and local industry standards.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Boulder for Restaurant Managers
Nearby areas around Boulder offer competitive salaries for Restaurant Managers, with slight variations:
- Downtown Boulder: $30.50 per hour
- Pearl Street Mall: $31.00 per hour
These locations tend to have bustling restaurant scenes, contributing to slightly higher wages compared to some other parts of Boulder.
What Influences a Restaurant Manager’s Salary in Boulder?
Several factors can influence how much a Restaurant Manager earns in Boulder. These include:
- Experience and Leadership Skills: Managers with several years of industry experience and proven leadership abilities usually command higher salaries.
- Type and Size of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants and larger establishments often offer better compensation than smaller or casual venues.
- Education and Certifications: Formal education in hospitality or restaurant management, along with certifications like ServSafe Manager Certification, can increase earning potential.
- Performance and Responsibilities: Managers who successfully drive sales, control costs, and develop staff may receive bonuses or higher pay.
- Location and Local Market Demand: Salaries may vary within the Boulder area based on demand and cost of living.
How To Become a Restaurant Manager in Boulder
To pursue a career as a Restaurant Manager in Boulder, consider the following steps:
- Education: Enroll in relevant programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts or the Hospitality Management Program at University of Colorado Boulder to gain essential knowledge.
- Obtain Certifications: Acquiring certifications such as the ServSafe Manager Certification or Certified Food and Beverage Executive (CFBE) credential can enhance your qualifications.
- Gain Practical Experience: Start in entry-level roles within restaurants to build hands-on experience and understand operational workflows.
- Develop Skills: Focus on leadership, communication, budgeting, and customer service skills necessary for managing teams and operations efficiently.
- Networking: Connect with industry professionals through local hospitality associations or events to discover job opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Restaurant Managers in Boulder
Several prominent establishments in Boulder are actively hiring Restaurant Managers, including:
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Shake Shack
- Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant
Establishments That Restaurant Managers in Boulder Work At
Restaurant Managers in Boulder typically work across a variety of establishment types such as:
- Casual Restaurants: These often have moderate pay but offer experience managing a diverse range of operations.
- Fast Casual Chains: These provide opportunities to manage high-volume environments, sometimes with better compensation packages.
- Fine Dining Venues: Managers here often earn higher salaries due to the upscale nature of the service and clientele.
- Hotel Restaurants and Resorts: These establishments may offer additional benefits and managerial growth possibilities.
The type of establishment has a significant impact on salary, with upscale venues generally offering higher pay compared to casual settings.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Boulder for Restaurant Managers
If you are considering careers related to Restaurant Manager roles, here are some similar positions worth exploring:
These include Food and Beverage Manager, Bar Manager, and Assistant Restaurant Manager, each offering overlapping skills and potential career progression paths.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Restaurant Managers in Boulder
Restaurant Managers should stay informed about relevant labor laws and tax regulations that affect their work.
- Visit the Official website of the State of Colorado for state employment regulations and resources.
- Look up local government information on the City of Boulder official website.
- For federal labor laws, including wage standards, check the U.S. Department of Labor's official website.