Restaurant Manager Salary in Wilmington, NC
Restaurant Managers in Wilmington, NC, in 2026, earn approximately $29.45 per hour, which translates to about $1,178.00 per week, $5,104.67 per month, and $61,256.00 per year.
The demand for Restaurant Managers in Wilmington is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy and expanding market for restaurant leadership roles in this vibrant city.
How Much Does a Restaurant Manager Make in Wilmington, NC?
The salary of a Restaurant Manager in Wilmington can vary by experience, skills, and specific employer. Here is a breakdown of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $19.14 | $765.60 | $3,309.60 | $39,715.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $29.45 | $1,178.00 | $5,104.67 | $61,256.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $45.32 | $1,812.80 | $7,825.07 | $93,785.60 |
Do Restaurant Managers in Wilmington Earn Tips?
Restaurant Managers typically do not earn tips as part of their income since their role is focused on managing operations rather than direct customer service. Their earnings primarily come from their salary or hourly wage.
Restaurant Manager Salary in Wilmington vs. National Average
Nationally, Restaurant Managers earn an average of about $29.45 per hour and approximately $61,256 per year. This aligns exactly with the average salary for Restaurant Managers in Wilmington, NC.
This parity suggests that Wilmington offers a competitive salary level while benefiting from a potentially lower cost of living compared to larger metropolitan areas.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Wilmington for Restaurant Managers
If you're considering nearby areas, here’s how salaries compare:
- Downtown Wilmington: $31.25 per hour
- Mayfaire: $30.50 per hour
These areas offer slightly higher pay rates than the Wilmington average, possibly reflecting trends related to local business density and upscale dining establishments.
What Influences a Restaurant Manager’s Salary in Wilmington?
Several factors influence how much a Restaurant Manager can earn in Wilmington.
- Experience and Leadership Skills: Managers with more years of experience and proven leadership tend to command higher salaries.
- Type and Size of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotel restaurants, or busy chains usually pay more than casual or fast food outlets.
- Location: Salaries may be higher in busier commercial districts like Downtown Wilmington and Mayfaire.
- Certifications and Education: Additional qualifications in hospitality or food safety can enhance earning potential.
- Responsibility Level: Managers overseeing larger teams or multiple restaurant outlets often receive increased compensation.
How To Become a Restaurant Manager in Wilmington
To pursue a career as a Restaurant Manager in Wilmington, consider the following steps:
- Education: Enroll in hospitality or culinary management programs such as the Cape Fear Community College Culinary Arts Program or the University of North Carolina Wilmington Hospitality Management Program to build foundational skills.
- Certifications: Earn credentials like the ServSafe Manager Certification, which focuses on food safety and sanitation, and may be essential for many employers.
- Compliance Permits: Obtain the North Carolina Alcohol Beverage Control Commission Permit if managing establishments that serve alcohol.
- Gain Experience: Work in different restaurant roles to understand operations before moving into management.
Top Employers Hiring Restaurant Managers in Wilmington
The following employers are known for recruiting Restaurant Managers in the Wilmington area:
- Waffle House
- Restaurant Management Search
- Moe's Southwest Grill
- Vicious Biscuit
- Port City Java
Establishments That Restaurant Managers in Wilmington Work At
Restaurant Managers in Wilmington typically work across various types of dining establishments.
- Casual Dining: Family restaurants and casual eateries offer busy yet rewarding environments where managers may earn average salaries.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: Often faster-paced with emphasis on operational efficiency; salaries in these establishments may be moderate.
- Fine Dining: Upscale restaurants often pay higher salaries given the complexity and expectations involved.
- Hotels and Resorts: These venues may offer managers higher pay and additional benefits for overseeing dining services as part of broader hospitality operations.
Salary differences stem largely from the scale, clientele, and revenue of the establishment managed.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Wilmington for Restaurant Managers
If you are exploring similar careers to Restaurant Manager, consider the following related roles which share common skills and industry knowledge.
These include Assistant Restaurant Manager, Food and Beverage Manager, and Bar Manager positions, which complement the skill set of Restaurant Managers.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Restaurant Managers in Wilmington
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is important for Restaurant Managers to ensure compliance and proper management.
- Refer to the U.S. Department of Labor website for federal labor laws and regulations.
- Check the North Carolina Department of Labor website for state-specific labor laws and workplace safety guidelines.
- Visit the City of Wilmington official website for local business regulations and permit information.