Restaurant Manager Salary in Durham, NC
Restaurant Managers in Durham, NC, in 2025, earn approximately $27.54 per hour, which translates to about $1,101.60 per week, $4,773.60 per month, and $57,283.20 per year.
The demand for Restaurant Managers in Durham is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating positive job prospects and an expanding hospitality industry in the region.
How Much Does a Restaurant Manager Make in Durham, NC?
The salary of a Restaurant Manager in Durham varies depending on experience and the employer, but the general earnings across different levels are as follows.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $18.06 | $722.40 | $3,129.60 | $37,555.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $27.54 | $1,101.60 | $4,773.60 | $57,283.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $42.00 | $1,680.00 | $7,280.00 | $87,360.00 |
Do Restaurant Managers in Durham Earn Tips?
Restaurant Managers typically do not receive regular tips as part of their compensation. Their earnings are usually derived from their salary or wages. However, in some establishments, managers might receive performance bonuses or occasional gratuities, but tips are not a significant part of their income.
Restaurant Manager Salary in Durham vs. National Average
Nationally, Restaurant Managers earn an average of around $28.99 per hour, which comes to about $60,299.20 per year.
Compared to the national average, Restaurant Managers in Durham earn slightly less hourly, with $27.54 per hour and $57,283.20 annually.
This difference might reflect local cost of living and market conditions in Durham.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Durham for Restaurant Managers
Looking at nearby areas, Restaurant Managers can find the following wage differences:
- Downtown Durham: $29 per hour
- Research Triangle Park: $30.50 per hour
Managers working in Research Triangle Park have the potential to earn more compared to other nearby locations.
What Influences a Restaurant Manager’s Salary in Durham?
Several key factors influence the salary of a Restaurant Manager in Durham.
- Experience and Leadership Skills: Managers with years of management experience and strong leadership abilities command higher salaries.
- Type and Size of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, and large chains often offer better pay compared to smaller casual dining spots.
- Certifications and Education: Obtaining relevant certifications and degrees can enhance earning potential.
- Location Within the City: Working in high-demand areas like Downtown Durham or Research Triangle Park can lead to higher wages.
- Performance and Responsibility Level: Managing multiple locations or higher staff counts often results in better compensation.
How To Become a Restaurant Manager in Durham
Becoming a successful Restaurant Manager involves several educational and professional steps.
Many aspiring managers start with formal education such as the Durham Technical Community College Culinary Arts Program, offering culinary and management courses tailored for this career. Additionally, a bachelor's degree from the North Carolina Central University Hospitality and Tourism Administration program prepares students for leadership roles in the restaurant industry.
Certifications like the ServSafe Manager Certification are nationally recognized and often required to demonstrate food safety knowledge. Moreover, the North Carolina Alcohol Beverage Control Commission Permit is mandatory for managers overseeing establishments serving alcohol, ensuring compliance with state laws.
Gaining hands-on experience by working in various restaurant roles is highly beneficial to develop operational and management skills.
Top Employers Hiring Restaurant Managers in Durham
Several notable companies actively hire Restaurant Managers in Durham:
- Red Lobster
- Wendy's
- Bob Evans Restaurants
- Cook Out Restaurants
Establishments That Restaurant Managers in Durham Work At
Restaurant Managers in Durham typically work in a variety of establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often family-friendly or themed, with moderate pay.
- Fast Casual Chains: These have a faster pace and may offer competitive salaries due to volume.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Managers in these establishments tend to earn higher salaries reflecting the upscale service.
- Hotel and Resort Restaurants: These may provide additional benefits and higher pay due to larger operational scale.
The type and prestige of the establishment greatly influence compensation levels for Restaurant Managers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Durham for Restaurant Managers
If you're interested in roles similar to Restaurant Manager, here are a few related careers you might consider:
These include Assistant Restaurant Manager, Head Chef, and Food and Beverage Manager positions, which share overlapping skills and responsibilities in dining and hospitality management.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Restaurant Managers in Durham
Restaurant Managers in Durham should understand relevant labor laws and tax regulations at various levels.
- For federal labor laws and regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- State-specific labor laws can be found at the North Carolina Department of Labor's official site.
- Local regulations and resources are available through the City of Durham's official website.