Restaurant Manager Salary in Columbus, GA
Restaurant Managers in Columbus, GA, in 2026, earn approximately $30.23 per hour, which translates to about $1,209.20 per week, $5,239.87 per month, and $62,878.40 per year.
The job market for Restaurant Managers in Columbus is showing positive growth at about 2% per year, indicating a steady demand for leadership and management professionals in the local restaurant and hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Restaurant Manager Make in Columbus, GA?
The salary of a Restaurant Manager in Columbus varies based on experience, responsibilities, and the type of establishment. Below is an overview of earnings according to experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $18.38 | $735.20 | $3,174.13 | $38,090.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $25.25 | $1,010.00 | $4,366.67 | $52,520.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $49.72 | $1,988.80 | $8,591.47 | $103,417.60 |
Do Restaurant Managers in Columbus, GA Earn Tips?
Restaurant Managers typically do not earn tips as part of their compensation. Their income primarily comes from salaries or wages rather than gratuities, as their role focuses on managing operations rather than direct serving.
Restaurant Manager Salary in Columbus, GA vs. National Average
On a national level, Restaurant Managers earn around $31.40 per hour, which equals roughly $65,312 per year.
Comparatively, Restaurant Managers in Columbus earn slightly less hourly at $30.23 per hour and annually at $62,878.40, reflecting local market conditions and cost-of-living differences.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Columbus for Restaurant Managers
Nearby areas may offer variations in pay. For Restaurant Managers, these are some of the highest-paying locations near Columbus:
- Downtown Columbus: $32.00 per hour
- Midtown Columbus: $31.50 per hour
Considering these figures, working in Downtown Columbus can offer slightly higher compensation compared to Midtown.
What Influences a Restaurant Manager’s Salary in Columbus, GA?
Several factors can impact the salary of a Restaurant Manager in Columbus:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced managers with leadership and organizational skills command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants tend to offer better salaries than casual or fast-casual venues.
- Education and Certifications: Specialized training and certifications can enhance salary prospects.
- Performance and Responsibilities: Managers overseeing multiple locations or large teams earn more due to broader duties.
- Local Demand and Economic Factors: The health of the local hospitality market influences wage levels.
How To Become a Restaurant Manager in Columbus, GA
To pursue a career as a Restaurant Manager in Columbus, consider these steps:
- Education: Enroll in culinary or hospitality management programs such as the Columbus Technical College Culinary Arts Program or the Georgia State University Hospitality Administration Program.
- Certifications: Obtain industry-recognized credentials like the ServSafe Manager Certification or the Certified Food and Beverage Executive (CFBE) certification to demonstrate expertise in food safety and management.
- Gain Experience: Start in entry-level roles within restaurants to build hands-on knowledge of operations.
- Develop Leadership Skills: Strong communication and team management abilities are critical for Restaurant Managers.
Top Employers Hiring Restaurant Managers in Columbus, GA
Several prominent employers frequently hire Restaurant Managers in Columbus, including:
- Olive Garden Italian Restaurants
- Waffle House
- Marriott International
Establishments That Restaurant Managers in Columbus, GA Work At
Restaurant Managers can find employment across various types of food service establishments in Columbus:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often provide stable employment with moderate salaries.
- Fast Casual Chains: May offer growth opportunities but sometimes lower pay compared to upscale venues.
- Fine Dining: Tend to pay higher wages due to elevated service standards and complex operations.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often employ Restaurant Managers to oversee food service departments with competitive salaries and benefits.
The type and prestige of the establishment significantly influence the earning potential of Restaurant Managers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Columbus, GA for Restaurant Managers
Those interested in Restaurant Management might also consider related roles with overlapping skills and responsibilities.
These include roles such as Assistant Restaurant Manager, Food and Beverage Manager, and Hotel General Manager, which offer alternative career pathways in hospitality management.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Restaurant Managers in Columbus, GA
Understanding labor laws and tax regulations is important for Restaurant Managers to ensure compliance and proper financial planning.
- Georgia state labor laws and workforce information can be accessed through the Georgia Department of Labor website.
- For federal labor regulations, the U.S. Department of Labor website provides comprehensive information on employment laws and workplace standards.