How Much Do Hotel Managers Make?

Are you considering a career as a hotel manager? One of the first questions you might have is how much you can expect to make in this role.

If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: hotel managers in the United States earn an average annual salary of $55,000 to $75,000, depending on factors such as experience, location, and the size of the hotel.

But there’s much more to know about hotel management salaries and career growth. In this article, we’ll explore the different types of hotel management positions, the factors that influence salaries, and the opportunities for advancement in this exciting field.

Types of hotel management positions

Hotel management can refer to a variety of positions, but some of the most common roles include general manager, assistant general manager, front office manager, food and beverage manager, and event manager.

The general manager is responsible for overseeing the entire hotel operation and ensuring that it runs smoothly. They manage staff, handle finances, and develop strategies to improve overall performance. According to Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for general managers in the lodging industry was $54,430 in May 2020.

An assistant general manager works under the general manager and is responsible for supporting their efforts. They may manage specific departments or oversee the entire hotel in the general manager’s absence. According to Payscale, the average salary for assistant general managers is $51,000 per year.

The front office manager is responsible for managing the front desk, reservations, and other guest services. They ensure that guests have a positive experience and that staff are properly trained. According to Payscale, front office managers earn an average salary of $47,000 per year.

A food and beverage manager is responsible for overseeing the hotel’s restaurants, bars, and catering services. They manage staff, create menus, and ensure that food safety standards are met. According to Payscale, the average salary for food and beverage managers is $51,000 per year.

The event manager is responsible for planning and organizing events at the hotel, such as conferences, weddings, and corporate events. They work closely with clients to ensure that their needs are met and that events run smoothly. According to Payscale, event managers earn an average salary of $51,000 per year.

Keep in mind that salaries can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and the size of the hotel. Additionally, many hotels offer bonuses and other incentives to their managers. For example, some hotel chains like Marriott, Hilton, and Hyatt offer their managers bonuses based on the hotel’s performance.

Factors that influence hotel management salaries

Hotel management is a lucrative and dynamic career, with salaries varying depending on several factors. Keep in mind that hotel manager salaries are often based on a combination of base pay, bonuses, and profit sharing, which can significantly add to the overall compensation package.

• Experience: As with most professions, experience is a significant factor in determining hotel management salaries. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for lodging managers in 2020 was $56,810 per year. However, those with more experience, such as general managers, can earn upwards of $100,000 annually.
• Location: The location of the hotel also plays a significant role in determining hotel management salaries. For instance, hotels located in high-end tourist destinations or major metropolitan areas tend to pay higher salaries than those located in less popular areas.
• Size and type of hotel: The size and type of hotel also affect a hotel manager’s salary. Large hotel chains, such as Hilton or Marriott, typically offer higher salaries than small independent hotels. Additionally, luxury hotels often pay more than budget hotels.
• Education and certifications: Hotel management professionals with a bachelor’s degree in hospitality or a related field tend to earn higher salaries than those without. Additionally, certifications such as the Certified Hotel Administrator (CHA) or Certified Hospitality Educator (CHE) can increase a hotel manager’s earning potential.
• Industry and company: Finally, the industry and company a hotel manager works for can impact their salary. For example, hotel managers working for resorts or casinos may earn more than those working for traditional hotels. Similarly, working for a well-known, established hotel chain can result in a higher salary than working for a smaller, lesser-known brand.

It is worth mentioning that while salaries are important, hotel management professionals should also consider career growth opportunities when evaluating job offers. For instance, a smaller hotel chain may offer a lower salary but provide more opportunities for advancement and career growth.

Hotel management is a rewarding career that offers opportunities for growth and advancement. By considering the factors that influence hotel management salaries, professionals can make informed decisions about their career path and maximize their earning potential. For more information on hotel management salaries, visit Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Average salaries for hotel managers

Hotel management is a rewarding and lucrative career that offers a variety of opportunities for growth and development. One of the most important considerations for anyone interested in pursuing a career in hotel management is the potential salary. Here is a breakdown of average salaries for hotel managers:

• National average: According to Bureau of Labor Statistics, the national average salary for hotel managers is $55,320 per year, or $26.59 per hour. However, keep in mind that this figure can vary based on a number of factors, such as geographic location, experience level, and type of hotel.
• Regional differences: Hotel managers in certain regions may earn more or less than the national average. For example, those working in metropolitan areas may earn higher salaries than those in rural areas. According to Salary.com, the highest-paying states for hotel managers include New York, Massachusetts, and Hawaii.
• Salary by experience level: As with most professions, experience plays a key role in determining salary. Entry-level hotel managers can expect to earn less than those with several years of experience. According to Payscale, the average salary for a hotel manager with less than one year of experience is $43,000 per year, while those with 10-19 years of experience can earn upwards of $70,000 per year.
• Salary by type of hotel: The type of hotel can also impact a manager’s salary. For example, managers at luxury hotels may earn more than those at budget or mid-range hotels. According to Hcareers, the average salary for a general manager at a luxury hotel is $99,000 per year, while a general manager at a budget hotel can expect to earn around $62,000 per year.

Remember, these figures are meant to serve as a general guide and should not be taken as definitive. Other factors, such as education level, certifications, and negotiation skills, can also impact a hotel manager’s salary. Additionally, it is worth mentioning that the hotel industry is known for offering opportunities for career growth and advancement, which can lead to higher salaries and more fulfilling work.

Opportunities for career growth

Hotel management is a lucrative and exciting career path that presents various opportunities for growth. Hotel managers have the chance to advance their careers through:

• Specialization in a specific area of hotel management: Hotel managers can choose to specialize in a particular area such as food and beverage management, sales and marketing, or revenue management. By specializing, they can become experts in their field, which can lead to career advancement.
• Advancement to a higher-level management position: Hotel managers can advance to higher-level management positions in larger hotels or hotel chains. For example, they can become general managers, regional managers, or even vice presidents of operations.
• Transition to a different segment of the hospitality industry: Hotel managers can transition to other segments of the hospitality industry such as event planning, travel and tourism, or restaurant management.
• Entrepreneurship: Hotel managers can start their own hotel or hospitality-related business. This option presents them with the opportunity to be their own boss and to grow their business according to their vision.

It is worth mentioning that hotel managers who advance their careers through specialization or higher-level management positions tend to earn higher salaries. According to Payscale, the average salary for a hotel manager in the United States is $53,000 per year. However, hotel managers in larger hotels or hotel chains can earn significantly higher salaries, with some earning over $100,000 per year.

Keep in mind that career growth in hotel management requires hard work, dedication, and a willingness to learn. Hotel managers must stay up-to-date with industry trends, regulations, and best practices to remain competitive in the job market. On the other hand, the hospitality industry is constantly growing and evolving, presenting hotel managers with new and exciting opportunities for career growth.

Tips for maximizing your salary and career growth

Hotel management can be a rewarding and lucrative career path, but it is important to take the necessary steps to maximize your salary and career growth. Here are some tips:

• Continuing education and professional development: Keeping up with industry trends and acquiring new skills can help you stand out in a competitive job market. Consider pursuing certifications or advanced degrees in hospitality management, revenue management, or marketing. Websites like AHLEI or HFTP offer a variety of online courses and resources for hospitality professionals.
• Networking and building industry connections: Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and connect with other hotel managers on social media platforms like LinkedIn. Building a strong network can help you stay informed about job opportunities and industry trends, and may even lead to new career opportunities.
• Negotiating your salary: Don’t be afraid to negotiate your salary when starting a new job or during performance reviews. Research the average salary range for your position and experience level using websites like Glassdoor or Bureau of Labor Statistics. Be prepared to make a case for why you deserve a higher salary based on your skills, experience, and contributions to the company.
• Seeking out new opportunities: Don’t be afraid to explore new job opportunities, especially if they offer better salary or career growth potential. Keep in mind that some hotel chains may offer more opportunities for advancement and higher salaries than others. Websites like Hcareers or Hospitality Online can help you search for job openings and compare salaries across different hotels and companies.

Remember, maximizing your salary and career growth requires a combination of hard work, dedication, and strategic planning. By investing in your education, networking with industry professionals, negotiating your salary, and seeking out new opportunities, you can take your hotel management career to the next level.

Conclusion

As you can see, hotel management offers a wide range of career opportunities and potential for growth. While salaries can vary based on a number of factors, the industry as a whole is growing and demand for skilled professionals is high.

By staying informed about industry trends and pursuing opportunities for professional development, you can position yourself for a successful and rewarding career as a hotel manager.