Restaurant Manager Salary in Santa Monica, CA
Restaurant Managers in Santa Monica, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $37.01 per hour. This amounts to about $1,480.40 per week, $6,415.07 per month, and $76,980.80 per year.
The demand for Restaurant Managers in Santa Monica is growing steadily at around 5% per year, signaling increasing opportunities and a strong market for skilled management professionals in the local hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Restaurant Manager Make in Santa Monica, CA?
The salary of a Restaurant Manager in Santa Monica varies with experience, responsibilities, and the type of establishment managed. Below is an overview of the typical earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $31.52 | $1,260.80 | $5,452.53 | $65,449.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $37.01 | $1,480.40 | $6,415.07 | $76,980.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $43.46 | $1,738.40 | $7,520.53 | $90,236.80 |
Do Restaurant Managers in Santa Monica Earn Tips?
Restaurant Managers typically do not earn tips since their role focuses on overseeing operations and staff management rather than direct customer service. Their compensation is generally composed of a salary or hourly wage without additional tip income.
Restaurant Manager Salary in Santa Monica vs. National Average
Nationally, the average hourly pay for Restaurant Managers is around $29.80, equating to approximately $61,984 per year.
Compared to the national average, Restaurant Managers in Santa Monica earn significantly more, with an average hourly wage of $37.01 and an annual income of about $76,980.80. This difference is largely due to the higher cost of living and demand for experienced hospitality management in the Santa Monica area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Santa Monica for Restaurant Managers
Nearby neighborhoods offer varying salary levels for Restaurant Managers:
- Downtown Santa Monica: $38.50 per hour
- Ocean Avenue: $39.00 per hour
These areas tend to offer slightly higher wages due to their premium locations and upscale dining scenes, attracting skilled Restaurant Managers.
What Influences a Restaurant Manager’s Salary in Santa Monica?
Several factors can impact how much a Restaurant Manager earns in Santa Monica:
- Experience and Expertise: More seasoned managers with proven success often command higher salaries.
- Skills and Certifications: Proficiency in financial management, staff leadership, and food safety certifications enhance earning potential.
- Type and Size of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotel restaurants, and larger venues typically offer better compensation compared to smaller or casual spots.
- Location: Salaries vary by neighborhood within Santa Monica due to differences in clientele and operating costs.
- Industry Trends: Growing demand for well-managed dining establishments encourages competitive compensation packages.
How To Become a Restaurant Manager in Santa Monica
To pursue a career as a Restaurant Manager in Santa Monica, consider the following steps:
- Educational Programs: Enroll in programs such as the Santa Monica College Hospitality and Tourism Management Program, which covers restaurant management, hospitality law, and food and beverage operations.
- Certificates: Obtain certifications like the ServSafe Manager Certification, which ensures compliance with food safety standards, and the California Responsible Beverage Service (RBS) Certification, critical for managing alcohol service.
- Professional Development: Completing the UCLA Extension Restaurant Management Certificate can provide valuable training in operations, financial management, and marketing strategies.
- Hands-On Experience: Gain experience in various restaurant roles and strive to take on leadership responsibilities to build management skills.
Top Employers Hiring Restaurant Managers in Santa Monica
The following employers are known for hiring Restaurant Managers in Santa Monica:
- Meat on Ocean
- Regent Santa Monica Beach
- The Cheesecake Factory
Establishments That Restaurant Managers in Santa Monica Work At
Restaurant Managers in Santa Monica can be found working in a variety of establishments including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These businesses often provide steady work and moderate salaries.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Managers here usually earn higher salaries due to the complexity and prestige of the restaurant.
- Hotel Restaurants: Tend to offer competitive pay with additional benefits.
- Fast Casual Settings: Typically provide moderate wages but can offer advancement opportunities.
The type of establishment greatly influences the salary and benefits available to a Restaurant Manager, with upscale and larger restaurants offering better compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Santa Monica for Restaurant Managers
If you are considering career paths similar to Restaurant Manager, here are some related roles to explore.
These include Assistant Restaurant Manager, Bar Manager, and Food and Beverage Manager roles, which share many skills and responsibilities with Restaurant Managers.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Restaurant Managers in Santa Monica
Understanding state and federal labor laws and tax requirements can help Restaurant Managers navigate their employment rights and obligations effectively.
- Visit the California Department of Industrial Relations for state labor laws and regulations.
- The California Employment Development Department offers employment services and information tailored to state requirements.
- For federal labor laws and resources, consult the U.S. Department of Labor.