Restaurant Manager Salary in Costa Mesa, CA
Restaurant Managers in Costa Mesa, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $36.48 per hour, which translates to about $1,459.20 per week, $6,323.20 per month, and $75,878.40 per year.
The demand for Restaurant Managers in Costa Mesa is growing steadily at about 2% per year, indicating a positive job outlook and increased opportunities in the local hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Restaurant Manager Make in Costa Mesa, CA?
The salary of a Restaurant Manager in Costa Mesa can vary based on experience, establishment size, and specific responsibilities. The following table outlines typical earnings from entry-level to top earners.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $31.25 | $1,250.00 | $5,416.67 | $65,000.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $36.48 | $1,459.20 | $6,323.20 | $75,878.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $42.45 | $1,698.00 | $7,325.00 | $87,900.00 |
Do Restaurant Managers in Costa Mesa Earn Tips?
Generally, Restaurant Managers do not earn tips as part of their regular compensation. Their salary reflects their managerial duties, and while some may occasionally receive bonuses or profit sharing in certain establishments, tip earnings are not common or consistent for this position.
Restaurant Manager Salary in Costa Mesa vs. National Average
Nationally, Restaurant Managers earn about $31.40 per hour, which results in approximate yearly earnings of $65,312.
Compared to the national average, Restaurant Managers in Costa Mesa earn considerably more, with an average hourly wage of $36.48 and a yearly salary of around $75,878.40. This difference likely reflects the higher living costs and competitive hospitality market in the Costa Mesa area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Costa Mesa for Restaurant Managers
In the nearby regions surrounding Costa Mesa, Restaurant Managers earn the following hourly wages:
- South Coast Metro: $38.00 per hour
- Eastside Costa Mesa: $37.50 per hour
These areas offer salaries above the Costa Mesa average and may provide additional opportunities for advancement and higher wages.
What Influences a Restaurant Manager’s Salary in Costa Mesa?
The salary of a Restaurant Manager can be influenced by several key factors, including:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced managers with proven skills in leadership and operations tend to earn higher salaries.
- Type and Size of Establishment: Upscale or large restaurants often offer higher pay compared to smaller or casual dining venues.
- Skills and Certifications: Skills in staff management, budgeting, customer service, and holding certifications such as food safety accreditation can boost earnings.
- Geographic Location: Local demand and cost of living in Costa Mesa impact overall compensation.
- Performance and Bonuses: Some establishments offer bonuses based on performance metrics, which can supplement base salaries.
How To Become a Restaurant Manager in Costa Mesa
Pursuing a career as a Restaurant Manager in Costa Mesa involves building relevant education and experience. Consider the following steps:
- Complete Relevant Education: Degrees or certificates in hospitality management or culinary arts can provide foundational skills. The Orange Coast College Culinary Arts Program offers comprehensive training including restaurant management, located in Costa Mesa.
- Explore Hospitality Degrees: The California State University, Long Beach Hospitality Management Program offers bachelor's degrees with coursework relevant to Restaurant Managers and is located near Costa Mesa.
- Obtain Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Manager Certification and the California Food Handler Card are often required and demonstrate food safety knowledge critical for the role.
- Gain Practical Experience: Start in entry roles such as server or assistant manager to develop managerial skills and industry understanding.
Top Employers Hiring Restaurant Managers in Costa Mesa
Costa Mesa features several notable employers actively seeking Restaurant Managers, including:
- Din Tai Fung
- The Capital Grille
- King's Seafood
Establishments That Restaurant Managers in Costa Mesa Work At
Restaurant Managers in Costa Mesa typically work in a variety of establishments, including:
- Casual Dining: These venues often provide steady managerial roles but may offer moderate salaries compared to upscale settings.
- Fast Casual: Managerial roles in fast casual restaurants often emphasize operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.
- Fine Dining and High-End Restaurants: These establishments typically offer higher salaries and bonuses reflecting the complexity of operations and clientele expectations.
- Hotel and Resort Restaurants: Roles here may include broader responsibilities and higher pay due to scale and service level.
The type of establishment directly impacts salary, with upscale and larger venues generally offering more competitive pay and benefits.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Costa Mesa for Restaurant Managers
If you're exploring similar roles related to Restaurant Manager positions, consider these options which require overlapping skills and offer diverse career paths.
These related careers include Assistant Restaurant Manager, Food and Beverage Manager, and Bar Manager, all of which involve managing various aspects of hospitality and food service operations.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Restaurant Managers in Costa Mesa
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is essential for Restaurant Managers to ensure compliance and manage their employment effectively.
- For federal labor statistics and occupational details, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
- The California Department of Industrial Relations offers detailed information on state labor laws at dir.ca.gov.
- For local business guidelines and regulations, the official Costa Mesa city website provides useful resources.