Restaurant Manager Salary in Tampa, FL
Restaurant Managers in Tampa, FL, in 2025, earn approximately $28.87 per hour, which translates to about $1,154.80 per week, $5,004.13 per month, and $60,049.60 per year.
The demand for Restaurant Managers in Tampa is growing steadily at about 2% per year, indicating a positive outlook for careers in restaurant management in the area.
How Much Does a Restaurant Manager Make in Tampa, FL?
The salary of a Restaurant Manager in Tampa varies based on experience and specific employer, but here is an overview of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $21.11 | $844.40 | $3,651.47 | $43,797.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $28.87 | $1,154.80 | $5,004.13 | $60,049.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $38.64 | $1,545.60 | $6,663.20 | $79,964.80 |
Do Restaurant Managers in Tampa Earn Tips?
Restaurant Managers typically do not earn tips as their responsibilities focus on administrative and operational management rather than direct customer service. Their compensation is generally salary or hourly-based without additional tip income.
Restaurant Manager Salary in Tampa vs. National Average
Nationally, Restaurant Managers earn an average of about $31.40 per hour, which amounts to roughly $65,312 per year.
Compared to the national average, Restaurant Managers in Tampa earn slightly less per hour and annually. Tampa's wages of approximately $28.87 per hour and $60,049.60 annually reflect local market conditions and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Tampa for Restaurant Managers
Nearby areas where Restaurant Managers can earn higher salaries include:
- Downtown Tampa: $30.50 per hour
- Westshore Business District: $32.00 per hour
These areas tend to offer better pay due to higher restaurant volumes, upscale dining environments, and concentration of hospitality businesses.
What Influences a Restaurant Manager’s Salary in Tampa?
Several key factors influence how much a Restaurant Manager earns in Tampa:
- Experience: Those with more years managing restaurants usually command higher salaries.
- Skills: Strong leadership, budgeting, and operational skills positively impact pay.
- Type of Establishment: Managers of upscale or high-volume restaurants generally earn more than those in casual dining.
- Location: Working in high-demand or business districts tends to increase earnings.
- Education and Certifications: Degrees or certifications in hospitality management can boost salary potential.
How To Become a Restaurant Manager in Tampa
To pursue a career as a Restaurant Manager in Tampa, consider these steps:
- Education: Programs like the Hillsborough Community College Hospitality Management Program provide foundational skills with an Associate in Science degree focusing on hospitality and restaurant management.
- Advanced Degrees: The University of South Florida offers a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management, beneficial for deeper knowledge.
- Certifications: Obtaining the ServSafe Manager Certification is nationally recognized and important for ensuring safe food handling and sanitation.
- State Requirements: The Certified Food Manager (CFM) Certification is required by Florida to demonstrate compliance with food safety standards.
- Gain Experience: Start in entry-level restaurant roles and progress to supervisory and then management positions.
Top Employers Hiring Restaurant Managers in Tampa
Leading organizations and restaurants in Tampa hiring Restaurant Managers include:
- Waffle House
- Talk of the Town Restaurant Group
- Barcelona Wine Bar
- The Indigo Road
- Del Frisco's Grille
Establishments That Restaurant Managers in Tampa Work At
Restaurant Managers in Tampa work at a variety of dining establishments, such as:
- Casual Dining: These establishments tend to have moderate pay but larger staff to manage.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: Often focused on efficiency and volume, with salaries reflecting high turnover and fast pace.
- Fine Dining: Managers here usually earn higher salaries due to more complex operations and expectations.
- Bars and Nightclubs: Some restaurants combined with nightlife venues pay differently based on hours and clientele.
The type and size of the establishment can significantly affect the salary and responsibilities of a Restaurant Manager.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Tampa for Restaurant Managers
If you are interested in roles similar to Restaurant Manager, consider these related careers in the hospitality industry:
These include Assistant Restaurant Manager, Food and Beverage Manager, and Bar Manager, offering different responsibilities and salary ranges within hospitality management.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Restaurant Managers in Tampa
Restaurant Managers should be aware of relevant labor laws and tax regulations to protect their rights and understand their obligations.
- Federal labor statistics and regulations are available on the Bureau of Labor Statistics website.
- State-specific labor laws for Florida can be found on the State of Florida's official website.
- Local resources for business and employment regulations are provided on the City of Tampa's official website.