Restaurant Manager Salary in Charleston, SC
Restaurant Managers in Charleston, SC, in 2025, earn approximately $29.19 per hour, which equates to about $1,167.60 per week, $5,059.60 per month, and $60,715.20 per year.
The job demand for Restaurant Managers is growing steadily at a rate of 5% per year, indicating a healthy outlook for individuals pursuing this career in Charleston.
How Much Does a Restaurant Manager Make in Charleston, SC?
The salary of a Restaurant Manager in Charleston varies by experience and other factors. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings based on experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $20.92 | $836.80 | $3,621.33 | $43,360.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $29.19 | $1,167.60 | $5,059.60 | $60,715.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $40.70 | $1,628.00 | $7,033.33 | $84,560.00 |
Do Restaurant Managers in Charleston Earn Tips?
Restaurant Managers typically do not earn tips as their role focuses more on operations and management rather than direct customer service. Their compensation is generally comprised of salary and bonuses rather than gratuities.
Restaurant Manager Salary in Charleston, SC vs. National Average
The national average hourly wage for Restaurant Managers is around $29.19 per hour, with an annual salary averaging $60,715.20.
Restaurant Managers in Charleston earn about the same as the national average, reflecting Charleston's competitive hospitality industry and standard cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Charleston for Restaurant Managers
Nearby areas show some variation in pay for Restaurant Managers:
- Mount Pleasant: $28.12 per hour
- North Charleston: $27.35 per hour
Managers in Mount Pleasant tend to earn slightly higher wages than those in North Charleston, with Charleston itself offering competitive salaries.
What Influences a Restaurant Manager’s Salary in Charleston?
The salary of a Restaurant Manager in Charleston is influenced by several important factors.
- Experience and Tenure: As Managers gain years of experience, they usually see increases in salary and responsibility.
- Skills and Certifications: Strong leadership, financial management, and operational skills can enhance pay, as well as certifications like ServSafe Manager Certification.
- Type and Size of Establishment: Upscale, high-volume or chain restaurants often offer better salaries compared to smaller, casual eateries.
- Location: Salaries can vary between Charleston and surrounding cities depending on local demand and cost of living.
- Educational Background: Degrees or programs in hospitality or business management often help in securing higher-paying managerial roles.
How To Become a Restaurant Manager in Charleston
Beginning a career as a Restaurant Manager in Charleston involves acquiring relevant experience and education.
- Gain Experience in the Restaurant Industry: Most Restaurant Managers start in entry-level roles such as server or supervisor.
- Pursue Relevant Education: Programs like those at the Culinary Institute of Charleston offer comprehensive culinary arts and hospitality management education useful for aspiring managers.
- Consider Business-Focused Studies: The College of Charleston School of Business provides a Hospitality and Tourism Management program that teaches essential business skills.
- Obtain Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Manager Certification and the Certified Food and Beverage Executive (CFBE) demonstrate expertise and improve job prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Restaurant Managers in Charleston
Several prominent employers in Charleston frequently seek qualified Restaurant Managers.
- Charlestowne Hotels
- Hilton Garden Inn Hotel
- Market Pavilion Hotel
Establishments That Restaurant Managers in Charleston Work At
Restaurant Managers in Charleston work across a variety of dining establishments which can affect their earnings.
- Casual Dining: Often offers steady work but may pay less compared to more upscale locations.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: These increasingly popular venues may have competitive salary ranges due to high volume.
- Fine Dining: Typically higher paying due to the complexity and quality expectations associated with these establishments.
- Hotels and Resorts: Managers in these settings may receive benefits and higher salaries due to the scope of operations.
The type of establishment influences managerial responsibilities and pay scale significantly.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Charleston for Restaurant Managers
Those interested in similar career paths may consider related roles in hospitality management or food service leadership.
These include Assistant Restaurant Manager, Food and Beverage Manager, and Hotel General Manager positions, offering various paths within hospitality leadership.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Restaurant Managers in Charleston
Restaurant Managers should be knowledgeable about federal, state, and local labor laws and tax requirements.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for comprehensive federal employment rules.
- Check the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation for state-specific labor law information.
- The City of Charleston's official website provides local regulations and resources useful for Restaurant Managers and business owners.