Restaurant Manager Salary in San Diego, CA
Restaurant Managers in San Diego, CA, earn approximately $36.70 per hour, which translates to about $1,468.00 per week, $6,361.33 per month, and $76,336.00 per year.
The demand for Restaurant Managers in San Diego is growing moderately at about 2% per year, indicating a steady increase in job opportunities in the hospitality sector within the city.
How Much Does a Restaurant Manager Make in San Diego, CA?
The salary of a Restaurant Manager in San Diego varies based on experience and the type of establishment, but here is a general breakdown across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $29.00 | $1,160.00 | $5,026.67 | $60,160.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $36.70 | $1,468.00 | $6,345.33 | $76,336.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $58.40 | $2,336.00 | $10,106.67 | $121,472.00 |
Do Restaurant Managers in San Diego Earn Tips?
Restaurant Managers typically do not earn tips as part of their compensation. Their income is usually salary-based, reflecting their managerial responsibilities rather than direct customer service.
Restaurant Manager Salary in San Diego vs. National Average
Nationally, Restaurant Managers earn an average of about $31.40 per hour, which equates to approximately $65,312 per year.
Comparatively, Restaurant Managers in San Diego earn more, with an average hourly wage of $36.70 and an annual salary of around $76,336. This reflects the higher cost of living and competitive hospitality market in San Diego.
Highest-Paying Areas Near San Diego for Restaurant Managers
Nearby areas in the San Diego region offer varied pay rates for Restaurant Managers:
- La Jolla: $38.50 per hour
- Downtown San Diego: $37.80 per hour
These areas tend to offer higher wages, often due to upscale dining establishments and tourist-driven demand.
What Influences a Restaurant Manager’s Salary in San Diego?
Several factors impact how much a Restaurant Manager can earn in San Diego:
- Experience and Leadership Skills: Proven management experience and strong leadership abilities often result in higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining and high-end restaurants usually offer better salaries compared to casual or fast-food venues.
- Location Within the City: Managers in affluent neighborhoods or tourist-heavy districts sometimes earn more.
- Size and Revenue of the Restaurant: Larger restaurants with higher sales volumes may provide larger compensation packages.
- Additional Certifications and Training: Formal hospitality training or certifications can enhance earning potential.
How To Become a Restaurant Manager in San Diego
Becoming a Restaurant Manager typically involves gaining relevant education, certifications, and hands-on experience. Here are some steps to consider:
- Complete Culinary or Hospitality Education: Programs like the San Diego Mesa College Culinary Arts Program and Grossmont College Hospitality and Tourism Management Program provide valuable training for aspiring managers.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Manager Certification and the California Food Handler Card are often mandatory and demonstrate knowledge of safety standards.
- Gain Experience in Restaurant Roles: Starting from roles such as server, cook, or assistant manager helps build essential operational insights.
- Develop Strong Leadership and Organizational Skills: Effective communication, team management, and problem-solving skills are critical for success.
Top Employers Hiring Restaurant Managers in San Diego
Several prominent employers actively seek skilled Restaurant Managers in San Diego, including:
- Davidson Hospitality Group
- Din Tai Fung
- Lafayette Hotel
- Cafe Coyote
Establishments That Restaurant Managers in San Diego Work At
Restaurant Managers work across various establishment types, each affecting salaries differently:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These establishments often offer the highest pay due to greater responsibilities and revenue.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Managers here may earn less but often gain diverse experience.
- Hotel Restaurants and Resorts: Higher-end hotels may provide competitive salaries and benefits.
- Franchise Chains: These can offer stable income but typically with standardized pay scales.
The establishment type influences complexity of duties, work environment, and ultimately the compensation level.
Related Hospitality Jobs in San Diego for Restaurant Managers
If you are interested in roles similar to Restaurant Manager, consider these related positions which involve leadership and hospitality management skills.
These include Assistant Restaurant Manager, Food and Beverage Manager, and Director Of Restaurant Operations, offering paths with increasingly senior responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Restaurant Managers in San Diego
Understanding labor laws and tax regulations is essential for Restaurant Managers to ensure compliance and proper management.
- Federal labor statistics and occupational information can be accessed on the bls.gov website.
- California-specific labor laws and workplace regulations are detailed on the dir.ca.gov site.
- For local government resources and regulations, visit the sandiego.gov website.