Restaurant Manager Salary in Riverside, CA
Restaurant Managers in Riverside, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $31.68 per hour, which translates to about $1,267.20 per week, $5,491.20 per month, and $65,894.40 per year.
The demand for Restaurant Managers in Riverside is growing steadily at about 2% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities and career advancement in the local hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Restaurant Manager Make in Riverside, CA?
The salary of a Restaurant Manager in Riverside can vary based on experience and employer, but generally, earnings range across different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $27.30 | $1,092.00 | $4,727.00 | $56,604.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $31.68 | $1,267.20 | $5,491.20 | $65,894.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $34.90 | $1,396.00 | $6,036.67 | $72,592.00 |
Do Restaurant Managers in Riverside Earn Tips?
Generally, Restaurant Managers do not earn tips as part of their regular compensation because their responsibilities revolve around management rather than direct service. However, in some establishments, managers might receive bonuses or profit-sharing but tips are not standard.
Restaurant Manager Salary in Riverside vs. National Average
Nationally, Restaurant Managers earn approximately $31.40 per hour, equating to around $65,312 per year.
Comparing this with Riverside's average hourly wage of $31.68 and annual salary around $65,894, salaries are slightly above the national average, reflecting the local market and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Riverside for Restaurant Managers
Nearby Riverside, certain areas offer higher pay for Restaurant Managers:
- Mission Grove: $33.00 per hour
- Downtown Riverside: $32.50 per hour
Managers working in Mission Grove tend to earn the highest local wages, with Downtown Riverside closely following.
What Influences a Restaurant Manager’s Salary in Riverside?
Several factors affect how much a Restaurant Manager can earn in Riverside:
- Experience: Managers with more years of industry experience typically command higher salaries due to their proven skills and leadership.
- Establishment Type: Fine dining and upscale restaurants generally offer better pay than casual or fast food operations.
- Skills: Expertise in budgeting, staff management, customer service, and marketing can increase earning potential.
- Location: Working in areas with higher operational costs or more competitive markets can lead to higher wages.
- Certifications and Education: Holding professional certifications or degrees related to hospitality management boosts salary prospects.
How To Become a Restaurant Manager in Riverside
Becoming a Restaurant Manager typically involves a combination of education, training, and experience.
Consider pursuing educational programs such as the Riverside City College - Hospitality Management Program, which offers training in restaurant operations, management, marketing, and culinary arts. Advanced education can be obtained through the University of California, Riverside Extension - Professional Certificate in Hospitality and Tourism Management, focusing on leadership and operational skills.
Certifications like the ServSafe Manager Certification, which is nationally recognized for food safety and sanitation knowledge, and the California Food Handler Card, required for food service employees statewide, are important credentials.
Gaining hands-on experience in restaurant roles and progressing through supervisory positions is essential to develop the leadership skills necessary for management.
Top Employers Hiring Restaurant Managers in Riverside
Some of the leading employers actively hiring Restaurant Managers in Riverside include:
- Denny's
- Yard House
- Jack in the Box
Establishments That Restaurant Managers in Riverside Work At
Restaurant Managers in Riverside find employment in a variety of establishments, each affecting salary and responsibilities differently:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These typically have moderate management salaries with a focus on customer experience and staff coordination.
- Fast Casual Chains: Managers here handle quicker service environments, sometimes with larger teams, often affecting wages accordingly.
- Fine Dining Venues: These establishments offer higher salaries due to the upscale service expectations and complex operations.
- Hotel and Resort Restaurants: Management roles here can include additional responsibilities and compensation based on the broader hospitality environment.
The type and prestige of the establishment significantly influence the salary and career growth of Restaurant Managers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Riverside for Restaurant Managers
If you are considering careers similar to Restaurant Manager, these related positions offer alternative paths in hospitality management and operations:
These include Assistant Restaurant Manager, Food and Beverage Manager, and Bar Manager, all sharing overlaps in responsibilities and potential career progression.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Restaurant Managers in Riverside
Restaurant Managers in Riverside should be aware of several labor laws and tax regulations that govern their employment:
- Visit the California Department of Industrial Relations for information on state labor laws and workplace regulations.
- The California Employment Development Department provides resources related to state employment services and tax information.
- For federal labor regulations and guidance, consult the U.S. Department of Labor.