Restaurant Manager Salary in Cambridge, MA
Restaurant Managers in Cambridge, MA, in 2025, earn approximately $32.93 per hour, which translates to about $1,317.20 per week, $5,707.87 per month, and $68,494.40 per year.
The demand for Restaurant Managers in Cambridge is growing strongly at about 48% per year, indicating a rapidly expanding job market and promising opportunities for professionals in this role.
How Much Does a Restaurant Manager Make in Cambridge, MA?
The salary of a Restaurant Manager in Cambridge varies depending on experience and employer type. Below is a breakdown of earnings based on career stage.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $25.89 | $1,035.60 | $4,481.60 | $53,795.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $31.69 | $1,267.60 | $5,492.93 | $65,915.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $41.87 | $1,674.80 | $7,230.13 | $86,989.60 |
Do Restaurant Managers in Cambridge Earn Tips?
Restaurant Managers generally do not earn tips since their role focuses on overseeing operations rather than direct customer service. Their income is usually based on salary and bonuses rather than gratuities.
Restaurant Manager Salary in Cambridge vs. National Average
Nationally, Restaurant Managers earn an average of around $31.69 per hour, translating to about $65,915.20 per year.
Compared to the national average, Restaurant Managers in Cambridge earn a slightly higher hourly rate of $32.93 and an annual salary of $68,494.40. This reflects the city's higher cost of living and competitive hospitality industry.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Cambridge for Restaurant Managers
Looking at nearby areas, salaries for Restaurant Managers can vary:
- Harvard Square: $35.00 per hour
- Kendall Square: $34.50 per hour
Both Harvard Square and Kendall Square offer higher pay rates than the average for Cambridge, making them lucrative locations for Restaurant Managers.
What Influences a Restaurant Manager’s Salary in Cambridge?
Several key factors influence how much a Restaurant Manager can earn in Cambridge:
- Experience: More experienced managers command higher salaries due to their proven ability to handle diverse challenges.
- Skills: Expertise in areas such as team leadership, inventory management, and budgeting adds significant value.
- Type of Establishment: Managers at upscale or high-volume restaurants generally earn more than those at smaller or casual dining places.
- Education and Certifications: Relevant certifications in hospitality management or food safety can boost earning potential.
- Location: Being in high-demand districts like Harvard Square often results in better compensation.
How To Become a Restaurant Manager in Cambridge
Becoming a Restaurant Manager involves a combination of education, training, and experience. Here are essential steps to help you get started:
- Gain Culinary and Management Training: Programs like the Professional Chef's Program at Cambridge School of Culinary Arts provide valuable skills in culinary techniques and restaurant management.
- Advanced Hospitality Education: Boston University Metropolitan College offers a Master of Management in Hospitality, covering restaurant operations and leadership.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: The nationally recognized ServSafe Manager Certification is commonly required and highly respected.
- Complete Alcohol Service Training: TIPS Certification helps managers ensure responsible alcohol service, which is critical in many establishments.
Top Employers Hiring Restaurant Managers in Cambridge
Several prominent employers in Cambridge are actively looking for skilled Restaurant Managers:
- Marriott International
- Legal Sea Foods
- Shake Shack
- The Charles Hotel
Establishments That Restaurant Managers in Cambridge Work At
Restaurant Managers can find opportunities in a range of establishments:
- Casual Dining: These restaurants offer moderate salaries and provide a broad managerial experience.
- Fast Casual: Managers here often work in fast-paced environments with competitive wages but possibly fewer benefits.
- Fine Dining: These typically offer the highest salaries due to the level of service and attention to detail required.
- Hotels and Resorts: These venues can provide expansive management experience and higher compensation packages.
The type of establishment directly impacts a Restaurant Manager's salary, with higher-end and larger venues offering greater earning potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Cambridge for Restaurant Managers
For those interested in similar roles, other opportunities within hospitality management include:
These include Assistant Restaurant Manager, Food and Beverage Manager, and Hotel General Manager, offering various pathways within the hospitality sector.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Restaurant Managers in Cambridge
Understanding local and federal labor laws is crucial for Restaurant Managers in Cambridge:
- Visit the Massachusetts government website for comprehensive information on state labor regulations and employee rights.
- For federal workplace standards, the U.S. Department of Labor's site offers valuable resources on labor laws and tax obligations.