Restaurant Manager Salary in Little Rock, AR
Restaurant Managers in Little Rock, AR, in 2025, earn approximately $26.90 per hour, which translates to about $1,076.00 per week, $4,662.67 per month, and $55,952.00 per year.
The demand for Restaurant Managers in Little Rock is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing job opportunities in the local hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Restaurant Manager Make in Little Rock, AR?
The salary of a Restaurant Manager in Little Rock can vary based on experience, skills, and the type of restaurant, but here is a general breakdown of earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $20.20 | $808.00 | $3,493.33 | $41,984.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $26.90 | $1,076.00 | $4,662.67 | $55,952.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $42.00 | $1,680.00 | $7,280.00 | $87,360.00 |
Do Restaurant Managers in Little Rock Earn Tips?
Restaurant Managers typically do not earn tips as part of their compensation. Their income is usually based strictly on their salary or hourly wages, excluding additional tip earnings.
Restaurant Manager Salary in Little Rock, AR vs. National Average
Nationally, Restaurant Managers earn an average of about $29.30 per hour, which equates to roughly $60,944 per year.
Compared to the national average, Restaurant Managers in Little Rock earn slightly less, with an average hourly wage of $26.90 and an annual salary around $55,952.
This difference can be attributed to the lower cost of living in Little Rock and variations in restaurant industry dynamics across regions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Little Rock for Restaurant Managers
Nearby areas offer higher salaries for Restaurant Managers, including:
- North Little Rock: $41.30 per hour
- Brinkley: $35.60 per hour
Managers willing to commute to these locations may find more lucrative opportunities than those located strictly in Little Rock.
What Influences a Restaurant Manager’s Salary in Little Rock?
Several key factors influence the salary of a Restaurant Manager in Little Rock:
- Experience and Skill Level: More years in management or advanced leadership skills generally lead to higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Managing upscale or large chain restaurants typically results in better compensation than smaller local eateries.
- Education and Certifications: Formal training in hospitality management or certifications such as ServSafe Manager can increase earning potential.
- Location Within the City: Restaurants in busier or more affluent neighborhoods may pay higher wages to attract talent.
- Responsibilities and Scope: Managers overseeing multiple locations or larger staffs tend to have greater salaries.
How To Become a Restaurant Manager in Little Rock
Achieving a role as a Restaurant Manager in Little Rock involves specific steps and qualifications:
- Education: Programs such as those at Pulaski Technical College Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management Institute offer comprehensive training in hospitality management.
- Advanced Business Skills: Courses at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock School of Business focusing on business and hospitality management equip candidates with valuable skills.
- Certifications: Obtaining the ServSafe Manager Certification or Certified Food and Beverage Executive (CFBE) credential demonstrates industry knowledge and commitment.
- Experience: Gaining on-the-job experience by working in supervisory roles within restaurants helps build practical skills.
Top Employers Hiring Restaurant Managers in Little Rock
Some of the prominent employers in Little Rock actively seeking Restaurant Managers include:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
- Olive Garden
- Chili's
Establishments That Restaurant Managers in Little Rock Work At
Restaurant Managers in Little Rock can find employment in various types of establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These establishments often offer moderate salaries with potential for tips cascading to management in some cases.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Managers may earn competitive wages but typically do not receive tips.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Higher-end restaurants usually offer better salary packages with more complex management responsibilities.
- Chain Restaurant Locations: Often provide structured salary scales with benefits and growth potential.
The type of establishment can significantly impact the overall compensation and career advancement opportunities for a Restaurant Manager.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Little Rock for Restaurant Managers
If you are exploring careers connected to Restaurant Management, here are some roles worth considering:
These include Assistant Restaurant Manager, Food and Beverage Manager, and Executive Chef, all of which share overlapping skills and responsibilities within the hospitality sector.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Restaurant Managers in Little Rock
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is essential for Restaurant Managers to navigate their employment effectively.
- Refer to the Federal website for the U.S. Department of Labor for comprehensive details on labor laws and regulations.
- Visit the Arkansas Department of Labor for state-specific labor standards and worker rights.
- The City of Little Rock official website provides resources on local business regulations and policies.