How much does a Catering Manager make?
A Catering Manager handles the food and beverage services at various events. They work in hotels, restaurants, and other locations. This role is important for ensuring guests have a great experience. The average yearly salary for a Catering Manager stands at $50,511. This can vary based on experience, location, and the size of the events they handle.
Catering Managers often earn more as they gain experience and take on larger or more complex projects. For instance, those with more than ten years in the field may see salaries rise significantly. The highest earners, typically those managing large events or high-end venues, can make over $85,000 per year. This shows that dedication and skill in this career can lead to substantial rewards.
What are the highest paying cities for a Catering Manager?

-
San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $74,221
In San Francisco, a city known for its tech giants, a catering manager oversees events for major companies like Google and Salesforce. The city's vibrant culture offers many opportunities to create unique dining experiences. The average salary is around $74,221, offering a good financial reward.
Find Catering Manager jobs in San Francisco, CA
-
Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $72,935
Los Angeles, the entertainment capital, provides a bustling environment for a catering manager. They work with studios and venues, offering creative opportunities. With a salary of about $72,935, the city's diverse market ensures a lively career path.
Find Catering Manager jobs in Los Angeles, CA
-
Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $71,849
Seattle's tech scene and dynamic food culture make it an exciting place for catering managers. They work with companies like Microsoft and Amazon, providing high-quality services. An average salary of $71,849 reflects the competitive market.
Find Catering Manager jobs in Seattle, WA
-
Colorado Springs, CO
Average Salary: $69,946
In Colorado Springs, the outdoor lifestyle and strong community spirit create a unique setting for catering managers. They often cater for local events and businesses, offering a balanced work environment. With a salary of $69,946, it's a place for growth.
Find Catering Manager jobs in Colorado Springs, CO
-
Rochester, MN
Average Salary: $69,095
Rochester's medical and educational institutions offer a steady demand for catering managers. They cater for hospitals and universities, ensuring a stable career. The average salary of $69,095 provides a comfortable living standard.
Find Catering Manager jobs in Rochester, MN
-
San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $66,523
San Jose's tech industry and diverse community provide many opportunities for catering managers. They work with tech firms and local businesses, offering a dynamic work environment. An average salary of $66,523 reflects the city's economic landscape.
Find Catering Manager jobs in San Jose, CA
-
Boston, MA
Average Salary: $66,272
Boston's rich history and educational institutions create a unique market for catering managers. They work with universities and historic venues, offering diverse experiences. With a salary of around $66,272, it's a place for professionals to thrive.
Find Catering Manager jobs in Boston, MA
-
Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $63,434
Sacramento's government and agricultural sectors provide a steady demand for catering managers. They cater for public events and local businesses, offering a stable career. The average salary of $63,434 offers a good quality of life.
Find Catering Manager jobs in Sacramento, CA
-
San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $62,645
San Diego's sunny climate and tourist attractions create a lively market for catering managers. They work with hotels and event venues, offering a vibrant career. With a salary of $62,645, it's a place for those who enjoy a dynamic environment.
Find Catering Manager jobs in San Diego, CA
-
Washington, DC
Average Salary: $62,185
Washington, DC's political and cultural scene provides many opportunities for catering managers. They work with government agencies and cultural institutions, offering a unique career path. The average salary of $62,185 reflects the city's economic environment.
Find Catering Manager jobs in Washington, DC
What are the best companies a Catering Manager can work for?

-
Specialty Restaurants
Average Salary: $75,196
Specialty Restaurants offers a variety of locations across the country. Catering Managers here oversee all catering events, from small meetings to large banquets. This company prides itself on its high-quality food and service.
-
Wolfgang Puck Catering
Average Salary: $70,706
Known for its gourmet catering, Wolfgang Puck Catering hires Catering Managers to ensure each event is flawless. They work in high-end venues in major cities like Los Angeles and New York.
-
Bon Appétit
Average Salary: $70,266
Bon Appétit is a large food service company. Catering Managers here manage large-scale catering operations in places like schools, hospitals, and airports. They need to handle many events at once.
-
Restaurant Associates
Average Salary: $69,175
With locations nationwide, Restaurant Associates offers Catering Managers the chance to work in upscale restaurants and event spaces. Their job focuses on making sure every catering event runs smoothly.
-
FLIK Hospitality Group
Average Salary: $68,988
FLIK Hospitality Group has venues in various cities. Catering Managers here plan and execute high-profile events. They work with top chefs and event planners to deliver exceptional service.
-
Goodwin Recruiting
Average Salary: $68,904
Goodwin Recruiting helps match Catering Managers with top companies. They focus on placing professionals in high-paying roles. Catering Managers who work with Goodwin often find excellent opportunities in top-tier venues.
-
HEI Hotels & Resorts
Average Salary: $68,485
HEI Hotels & Resorts offers catering services at their luxury hotels. Catering Managers here manage catering for events and guests. They work in beautiful locations like Hawaii and California.
-
Davidson Hospitality Group
Average Salary: $66,583
Davidson Hospitality Group runs upscale restaurants and event spaces. Catering Managers ensure that every event, from corporate meetings to weddings, is perfect. They work in major cities like Chicago and Miami.
-
Fooda
Average Salary: $66,458
Fooda is known for its delivery services and event catering. Catering Managers here manage catering for large events in urban areas. They focus on creating unique dining experiences for guests.
-
Schulte Hospitality Group
Average Salary: $65,343
Schulte Hospitality Group offers catering services at their resorts and hotels. Catering Managers here manage events for guests and locals. They work in beautiful locations like Florida and Nevada.
How to earn more as a Catering Manager?
Becoming a Catering Manager involves more than just organizing events. It requires a blend of leadership, organizational skills, and a keen eye for detail. One way to ensure higher earnings is through continuous learning and professional growth. Attending workshops, seminars, and acquiring certifications can open up new opportunities and increase earning potential.
Building strong relationships with clients also plays a crucial role. Catering Managers who establish trust and provide exceptional service are often rewarded with repeat business and referrals. Networking within the industry can lead to new clients and partnerships, further boosting income. Effective marketing strategies, such as social media promotion and event participation, can also attract more clients, enhancing revenue.
Below are five key factors that can help a Catering Manager earn more:
- Continuing Education: Attend workshops and acquire certifications.
- Client Relationships: Build trust and provide excellent service.
- Networking: Connect with industry professionals for new opportunities.
- Marketing: Use social media and participate in events to attract clients.
- Repeat Business: Focus on customer satisfaction to secure repeat clients.



