Restaurant Manager Salary in Salinas, CA
Restaurant Managers in Salinas, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $35.60 per hour, which translates to about $1,424.00 per week, $6,170.67 per month, and $74,048.00 per year.
The job demand for Restaurant Managers is growing strongly at about 37% per year, reflecting a robust expansion in the hospitality industry within Salinas and surrounding areas.
How Much Does a Restaurant Manager Make in Salinas, CA?
The salary of a Restaurant Manager in Salinas can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general look at earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $28.00 | $1,120.00 | $4,853.33 | $58,240.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $35.60 | $1,424.00 | $6,170.67 | $74,048.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $45.00 | $1,800.00 | $7,800.00 | $93,600.00 |
Do Restaurant Managers in Salinas Earn Tips?
Restaurant Managers typically do not earn tips as part of their compensation. Their income primarily comes from their base salary or hourly wages, rather than gratuities.
Restaurant Manager Salary in Salinas vs. National Average
Nationally, Restaurant Managers earn an average of around $31.40 per hour, translating to about $65,312.00 per year.
Compared to this, Restaurant Managers in Salinas earn higher wages on average, with a mid-level hourly rate of $35.60 and an annual salary of $74,048.00.
This reflects the local cost of living and a possibly higher demand for skilled Restaurant Managers in the Salinas area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Salinas for Restaurant Managers
When looking at nearby areas, Restaurant Manager salaries vary slightly:
- Downtown Salinas: $36.50 per hour
- North Salinas: $35.00 per hour
Those working in Downtown Salinas may find slightly better pay compared to North Salinas, though both areas offer competitive compensation.
What Influences a Restaurant Manager’s Salary in Salinas?
Several key factors influence the salary of a Restaurant Manager in Salinas:
- Experience and Leadership Skills: More experienced managers with strong leadership capabilities tend to command higher salaries.
- Type and Size of Establishment: Managers at larger or upscale restaurants typically earn more than those at smaller or casual eateries.
- Location: Salaries vary by neighborhood and proximity to city centers or affluent areas.
- Certifications and Education: Relevant training and certifications in hospitality or restaurant management can boost earning potential.
- Operational Responsibilities: Managers overseeing multiple departments or locations may receive higher pay.
How To Become a Restaurant Manager in Salinas
Becoming a successful Restaurant Manager in Salinas involves a combination of education, experience, and certifications.
Start by gaining practical experience in the restaurant industry, ideally working your way up through various roles such as server, host, or assistant manager.
Consider formal education programs such as the Hospitality Management Program at Hartnell College, which equips students with leadership skills needed for restaurant management.
The Culinary Arts Program at Monterey Peninsula College provides valuable training relevant to the food service sector and management roles.
Certification is also crucial. Obtaining the ServSafe Manager Certification ensures you understand food safety standards, a key responsibility for Restaurant Managers.
Similarly, the Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) certification is required by California law and demonstrates knowledge in food safety and sanitation.
Top Employers Hiring Restaurant Managers in Salinas
Some of the prominent employers looking for qualified Restaurant Managers in Salinas include:
- Red Lobster
- Panda Restaurant Group
- Darden Restaurants
Establishments That Restaurant Managers in Salinas Work At
Restaurant Managers in Salinas typically work in a variety of settings, including:
- Casual Dining Establishments: These often provide steady work and mid-range salaries.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: These fast-paced environments may offer competitive wages depending on the brand and size.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Managers here typically earn higher salaries due to the prestige and complexity of operations.
- Chain Restaurants and Franchises: Stability and benefits can be better, with variable pay scales depending on the company's size.
The type of establishment greatly influences a Restaurant Manager’s salary, with fine dining and larger chains often offering the highest compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Salinas for Restaurant Managers
If you are exploring similar career paths related to Restaurant Management, consider roles such as:
This includes roles such as Assistant Restaurant Manager, Food and Beverage Manager, and Bar Manager, each sharing overlapping skills and responsibilities with Restaurant Managers.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Restaurant Managers in Salinas
Restaurant Managers should be knowledgeable about labor laws and tax regulations that impact their employment.
- Visit the California Department of Industrial Relations for details on state labor laws and workplace regulations.
- The California Employment Development Department offers information on state employment services and tax guidelines.
- For federal labor laws and resources, consult the U.S. Department of Labor.