Restaurant Manager Salary in Wilmington, DE
Restaurant Managers in Wilmington, DE, in 2025, earn approximately $27.90 per hour, which translates to about $1,116.00 per week, $4,836.00 per month, and $58,032.00 per year.
The job market for Restaurant Managers is showing positive growth of about 5% per year, indicating a healthy demand for skilled professionals in the Wilmington area’s hospitality sector.
How Much Does a Restaurant Manager Make in Wilmington, DE?
The earnings of a Restaurant Manager in Wilmington vary based on experience, skill level, and the establishment they work for. Here's a breakdown of salary ranges:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $22.10 | $884.00 | $3,819.33 | $45,968.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $27.90 | $1,116.00 | $4,836.00 | $58,032.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $35.00 | $1,400.00 | $6,066.67 | $72,800.00 |
Do Restaurant Managers in Wilmington Earn Tips?
Typically, Restaurant Managers do not earn tips as part of their compensation. Their salaries are based mostly on a fixed pay structure and operational performance rather than direct gratuities from customers.
Restaurant Manager Salary in Wilmington, DE vs. National Average
Nationally, Restaurant Managers earn an average of approximately $28.70 per hour, or about $59,696.00 per year.
Compared to the national average, Wilmington’s Restaurant Managers earn slightly less on an hourly basis at $27.90 per hour, and their annual salary of $58,032.00 is just a bit below the national norm. This variance often reflects local cost of living and market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Wilmington for Restaurant Managers
Nearby cities offer varying pay levels for Restaurant Managers, including:
- Newark: $31.30 per hour
- Bethany Beach: $31.00 per hour
Restaurant Managers in Newark and Bethany Beach have the potential to earn more than those in Wilmington, likely due to different market demands and cost of living.
What Influences a Restaurant Manager’s Salary in Wilmington, DE?
Several factors can impact how much a Restaurant Manager earns in Wilmington:
- Experience and Leadership Skills: More experienced managers with proven leadership and problem-solving skills generally command higher salaries.
- Type and Size of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants or high-volume establishments typically offer higher pay compared to smaller or fast-casual venues.
- Education and Certifications: Managers with hospitality or culinary degrees and certifications often have better earning potential.
- Performance and Profitability: Successful managers who improve sales and customer satisfaction are often rewarded with bonuses and raises.
- Location: Salary levels are influenced by local economic conditions and competition for management talent.
How To Become a Restaurant Manager in Wilmington, DE
Becoming a Restaurant Manager involves a combination of education, experience, and sometimes formal certification:
- Education Programs: Enrolling in hospitality management programs like those at Delaware Technical Community College Culinary Arts Program or University of Delaware Hospitality Business Management Program provides a solid foundation.
- Certifications: Earning credentials such as the ServSafe Manager Certification or the Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) credential is crucial for ensuring compliance with food safety laws.
- Work Experience: Start by gaining experience in restaurant roles such as server, bartender, or assistant manager, progressing to management positions with more responsibility.
- Leadership Development: Building skills in communication, staff management, and financial oversight prepares candidates to excel as Restaurant Managers.
Top Employers Hiring Restaurant Managers in Wilmington, DE
Some of the key employers currently seeking Restaurant Managers in the Wilmington area include:
- Big Fish Restaurant Group
- Red Lobster
- TGI Fridays
- Westin
- Sheraton
Establishments That Restaurant Managers in Wilmington Work At
Restaurant Managers in Wilmington are employed across a wide variety of establishments:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These venues often pay higher wages due to the complexity of operations and clientele expectations.
- Casual Dining: Moderately priced restaurants provide steady employment and moderate salary ranges.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: These places may have larger staffing management needs but typically pay less than fine dining environments.
- Hotels and Resorts: Large hospitality venues like Westin and Sheraton require Restaurant Managers to oversee dining operations, usually at competitive salaries.
The type and prestige of the establishment strongly influence salary levels, with upscale venues generally offering the best pay and benefits.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Wilmington, DE for Restaurant Managers
If you are looking at career alternatives or progressions near the Restaurant Manager role, consider these related positions:
These include roles such as Assistant Restaurant Manager, Bar Manager, and Kitchen Manager, which share some overlapping responsibilities and career pathways with Restaurant Managers.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Restaurant Managers in Wilmington, DE
Restaurant Managers should be well-informed about labor laws and taxation relevant to their work in Wilmington:
- For comprehensive federal labor law information, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Specific state labor laws and employment standards are available on the Delaware Department of Labor website.