Restaurant Manager Salary in Tuscaloosa, AL
Restaurant Managers in Tuscaloosa, AL, in 2025, earn an average of $26.69 per hour, which comes to approximately $1,067.60 per week, $4,626.27 per month, and $55,515.20 per year.
The job outlook for Restaurant Managers in Tuscaloosa is positive, with an expected growth rate of about 5% per year, indicating a healthy demand for managerial roles within the local restaurant industry.
How Much Does a Restaurant Manager Make in Tuscaloosa, AL?
Restaurant Manager salaries in Tuscaloosa vary based on experience and expertise. Below is a breakdown of earnings across different levels of experience.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $21.53 | $861.20 | $3,730.63 | $44,767.90 |
| Mid-level (average) | $26.69 | $1,067.60 | $4,626.27 | $55,515.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $32.38 | $1,295.20 | $5,583.73 | $66,950.40 |
Do Restaurant Managers in Tuscaloosa Earn Tips?
Restaurant Managers typically do not earn tips as part of their compensation. Their income generally consists of a fixed salary or hourly wage rather than variable tips from customers.
Restaurant Manager Salary in Tuscaloosa vs. National Average
Nationally, the average hourly wage for Restaurant Managers is about $28.00 per hour, which translates to an annual salary of roughly $58,240.
Compared to the national average, Tuscaloosa Restaurant Managers earn slightly less, with an average of $26.69 per hour and an annual salary of $55,515.20. This difference may be influenced by local cost of living and market factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Tuscaloosa for Restaurant Managers
Nearby locations offer varied pay rates for Restaurant Managers:
- Downtown Tuscaloosa: $27.50 per hour
- Northport: $26.00 per hour
Those seeking higher compensation might consider opportunities in Downtown Tuscaloosa, where pay rates tend to be above the local average.
What Influences a Restaurant Manager’s Salary in Tuscaloosa?
Several factors affect how much a Restaurant Manager can earn in Tuscaloosa:
- Experience and Skill Set: More experienced managers with leadership skills typically command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Managers at upscale or high-volume restaurants often earn more than those in smaller or fast-casual venues.
- Educational Background: Degrees or certifications in hospitality or management may influence pay scale.
- Responsibilities and Scope: Overseeing multiple locations or larger staffs can increase salary.
- Local Market Conditions: The cost of living and local demand for managers also play roles.
How To Become a Restaurant Manager in Tuscaloosa
Becoming a proficient Restaurant Manager involves a combination of education, experience, and certifications.
- Consider enrolling in programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Shelton State Community College, which prepares students with foundational food service knowledge suitable for management roles.
- The Hospitality Management Program at The University of Alabama offers focused learning on operational and administrative aspects of hospitality, which are valuable for aspiring Restaurant Managers.
- Obtaining certifications such as the ServSafe Manager Certification and the Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) is often crucial. These demonstrate expertise in food safety and regulatory compliance, which are essential managerial responsibilities.
- Gain practical experience by working in supervisory roles within restaurants or related hospitality settings.
Top Employers Hiring Restaurant Managers in Tuscaloosa
Prominent local employers frequently looking for talented Restaurant Managers include:
- Outback Steakhouse
- Cook Out Restaurants
- Twelve25
Establishments That Restaurant Managers in Tuscaloosa Work At
Restaurant Managers in Tuscaloosa work in a diverse range of establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Mid-range pay with opportunities for advancement.
- Fast Casual Chains: Generally offer consistent but moderate salaries.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Typically higher salaries reflect the increased complexity and customer expectations.
- Hotel and Resort Restaurants: Often provide benefits and higher pay aligned with upscale environments.
The type of establishment can significantly affect salary, with fine dining and hotel restaurants usually paying the most for management roles.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Tuscaloosa for Restaurant Managers
If you're interested in careers similar to Restaurant Manager, here are a few roles that share similar skills and career paths:
These roles include Assistant Restaurant Manager, Food and Beverage Manager, and Hotel General Manager, each with overlapping responsibilities in hospitality management.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Restaurant Managers in Tuscaloosa
Understanding and complying with labor laws are crucial for Restaurant Managers working in Tuscaloosa.
- The U.S. Department of Labor (federal website) offers guidelines on labor standards, wages, and workplace safety.
- The Alabama Department of Labor (state website) provides information on state-specific labor regulations and resources.
- For local ordinances and regulations, consult the City of Tuscaloosa official website (local website).