Restaurant Manager Salary in Raleigh, NC
Restaurant Managers in Raleigh, NC, in 2025, earn approximately $28.70 per hour, which translates to about $1,148.00 per week, $4,974.67 per month, and $59,696.00 per year.
The demand for Restaurant Managers in Raleigh is growing moderately at about 2% per year, indicating a steady and positive job outlook in the hospitality industry in this region.
How Much Does a Restaurant Manager Make in Raleigh, NC?
Restaurant Manager salaries in Raleigh vary based on experience and other factors. Below is a comprehensive breakdown of earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $21.58 | $863.20 | $3,736.27 | $44,835.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $28.70 | $1,148.00 | $4,974.67 | $59,696.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $38.20 | $1,528.00 | $6,619.33 | $79,456.00 |
Do Restaurant Managers in Raleigh Earn Tips?
Restaurant Managers typically do not earn tips as part of their compensation. Their salaries are generally fixed and reflect their managerial responsibilities rather than customer-facing gratuities.
Restaurant Manager Salary in Raleigh vs. National Average
Nationally, Restaurant Managers earn an average of around $31.40 per hour, translating to about $65,312 annually.
Compared to the national average, Restaurant Managers in Raleigh earn slightly less, with an average hourly pay of $28.70 and annual earnings of approximately $59,696.
This difference may be influenced by regional cost of living and local industry demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Raleigh for Restaurant Managers
Nearby cities offer competitive wages for Restaurant Managers, slightly higher than Raleigh's averages:
- Asheville: $29.90 per hour
- Concord: $29.52 per hour
Considering proximity to Raleigh, Restaurant Managers might find better pay opportunities in Asheville and Concord, which offer slightly higher wages.
What Influences a Restaurant Manager’s Salary in Raleigh?
Several key factors influence how much a Restaurant Manager earns in Raleigh:
- Experience Level: More experienced managers with proven leadership skills earn higher salaries.
- Educational Background: Formal culinary or hospitality management education can impact pay positively.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and hotels often offer higher compensation than fast casual or chain restaurants.
- Skills and Certifications: Certifications like ServSafe Manager and knowledge of state alcohol control laws add value.
- Size of the Establishment: Managing larger teams and operations usually results in better pay.
How To Become a Restaurant Manager in Raleigh
Becoming a successful Restaurant Manager in Raleigh involves several important steps:
- Education: Consider programs like the Culinary Arts program at Wake Technical Community College or the comprehensive Culinary Arts program at Johnson & Wales University Charlotte Campus for foundational skills and management training.
- Certification: Obtain certifications such as the ServSafe Manager Certification to demonstrate knowledge of food safety protocols.
- Permits: Understand and acquire the North Carolina Alcoholic Beverage Control Permit for establishments serving alcohol.
- Experience: Gain experience in various restaurant roles to build operational and leadership expertise.
- Networking: Connect with industry professionals and pursue leadership opportunities to advance.
Top Employers Hiring Restaurant Managers in Raleigh
The following are prominent employers actively hiring Restaurant Managers in Raleigh:
- McDonald's
- RH
- Darden Restaurants
Establishments That Restaurant Managers in Raleigh Work At
Restaurant Managers in Raleigh typically find work in various types of establishments:
- Casual Dining: These offer a moderate pace and usually provide steady salaries with opportunities for tips to staff.
- Fast Casual and Fast Food: Positions here demand quick service management skills and may offer lower salaries but include bonuses or incentives.
- Fine Dining: Requires extensive experience and can offer the highest salaries among restaurant types.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often provide structured pay scales and benefits tied with larger operations.
The type of establishment can significantly affect the salary and work environment a Restaurant Manager experiences.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Raleigh for Restaurant Managers
If you're considering career options related to Restaurant Manager roles, here are some similar hospitality jobs with comparable responsibilities:
These roles include Assistant Restaurant Manager, Bar Manager, and Food and Beverage Manager, offering similar skills and career paths in hospitality management.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Restaurant Managers in Raleigh
Restaurant Managers should understand both federal and state labor laws to ensure compliance and proper management:
- Learn about federal labor regulations and statistics at the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
- For information on North Carolina employment laws and resources, visit the North Carolina state government website.