Restaurant Manager Salary in Lakeland, FL
Restaurant Managers in Lakeland, FL, in 2025, earn approximately $27.60 per hour, which translates to about $1,104.00 per week, $4,784.00 per month, and $57,408.00 per year.
The demand for Restaurant Managers in Lakeland is growing moderately at about 2% per year, indicating steady opportunities and a stable job market for management roles in the local hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Restaurant Manager Make in Lakeland, FL?
The salary of a Restaurant Manager in Lakeland varies depending on experience level and employer size. Here's a breakdown of expected earnings:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $20.60 | $824.00 | $3,570.67 | $42,880.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $27.60 | $1,104.00 | $4,784.00 | $57,408.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $36.90 | $1,476.00 | $6,386.00 | $76,752.00 |
Do Restaurant Managers in Lakeland Earn Tips?
Generally, Restaurant Managers in Lakeland do not earn tips as part of their compensation. Their income primarily comes from their base salary or hourly wage rather than gratuities.
Restaurant Manager Salary in Lakeland vs. National Average
Across the United States, the average hourly wage for Restaurant Managers is about $31.40, with an annual average salary near $65,312.
Compared to the national average, Restaurant Managers in Lakeland earn slightly less, at $27.60 hourly and $57,408 annually. This difference can reflect local cost of living and market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lakeland for Restaurant Managers
Nearby areas where Restaurant Managers can expect higher pay include:
- Downtown Lakeland: $28.50 per hour
- Lakeland Highlands: $29.00 per hour
Restaurant Managers working in these neighborhoods might benefit from marginally increased wages compared to other parts of Lakeland.
What Influences a Restaurant Manager’s Salary in Lakeland?
The amount a Restaurant Manager earns depends on various factors. Here are the key influences:
- Experience and Leadership Skills: Managers with years of proven leadership tend to earn higher wages.
- Establishment Type: Fine dining or upscale restaurants usually offer better pay than casual dining or fast food.
- Location: Salary can vary between neighborhoods and proximity to major city centers or tourist hubs.
- Certifications and Education: Holding management certs or relevant hospitality degrees can enhance salary prospects.
- Size of the Restaurant: Larger establishments with higher revenues often pay more to managers.
How To Become a Restaurant Manager in Lakeland
To pursue a career as a Restaurant Manager in Lakeland, consider these steps:
- Education: Polk State College offers an Associate in Science degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management, providing foundational knowledge in restaurant operations, customer service, and management principles.
- Advanced Studies: Florida Southern College provides a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in Hospitality Management, focusing on leadership skills and industry-specific knowledge.
- Certification: Earning the ServSafe Manager Certification is essential for ensuring food safety and sanitation compliance.
- State Requirements: Florida mandates at least one Certified Food Manager (CFM) per shift; acquiring this certification demonstrates compliance with state regulations.
- Experience: Gaining experience through assistant manager or supervisory positions helps build critical skills.
Top Employers Hiring Restaurant Managers in Lakeland
Several well-known establishments actively hire Restaurant Managers in Lakeland, including:
- Longhorn Steakhouse
- Buffalo Wild Wings
- First Watch
Establishments That Restaurant Managers in Lakeland Work At
Restaurant Managers can be found working across a variety of hospitality establishments, each with unique impacts on salary:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Provide steady income but generally more modest pay scales.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Often have faster-paced environments with potential for bonuses and incentives.
- Fine Dining: Tend to offer higher salaries due to complex operations and clientele expectations.
- Hotel and Resort Restaurants: Can offer added benefits and compensation.
The type of establishment and its clientele directly influence managerial responsibilities and earning potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lakeland for Restaurant Managers
If you are considering related roles in hospitality, here are a few similar positions to explore:
These include Assistant Restaurant Manager, Bar Manager, and Food and Beverage Manager positions.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Restaurant Managers in Lakeland
Understanding labor laws and taxation is important for Restaurant Managers operating in Lakeland.
- Visit the U.S. Department of Labor website for comprehensive federal labor laws and regulations.
- For state-specific licensing requirements, check the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation website.
- Employment laws and workforce development resources can be accessed at the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity website.