How much does a Catering Manager make?
A Catering Manager plays a key role in organizing and overseeing food and beverage services. This role can be found in various settings, such as hotels, restaurants, and event venues. The average yearly salary for a Catering Manager is around $51,126. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and the size of the organization. Catering Managers with a few years of experience may earn closer to the lower end of the salary range, while those with more experience can earn towards the higher end.
The salary distribution for Catering Managers shows a range of earnings. The lowest 10% of earners make around $29,000 per year. The next 10% earn between $29,000 and $33,909. As experience and skill increase, so does the salary. The highest 10% of Catering Managers earn more than $83,000 annually. This range highlights the potential for growth and advancement in the field. Catering Managers can increase their earnings by gaining more experience, specializing in certain types of events, or moving to higher-paying regions.
What are the highest paying cities for a Catering Manager?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $74,654
In San Francisco, managing a catering team means working with top-tier restaurants and event venues. Companies like Google and Salesforce often need catering for their events. The city's diverse culture adds a unique touch to menus.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $71,652
Seattle offers a vibrant atmosphere for catering managers. With companies like Amazon and Microsoft, there are plenty of opportunities. The city's love for fresh seafood and coffee can inspire creative menu options.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $70,478
Los Angeles provides a dynamic environment for catering managers. Working with Hollywood studios and major events gives a chance to create memorable dining experiences. The city's diverse population offers a wide range of culinary influences.
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Rochester, MN
Average Salary: $68,346
In Rochester, managing a catering team means serving a mix of corporate events and community gatherings. The presence of Mayo Clinic offers unique opportunities. The city's friendly atmosphere makes for pleasant work environments.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $65,162
Boston offers a historic setting for catering managers. Working with prestigious institutions like Harvard and MIT provides exciting challenges. The city's rich culinary scene offers endless inspiration for menus.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $64,012
San Jose, a tech hub, offers many opportunities for catering managers. Companies like Apple and Cisco need catering for their events. The city's diverse population brings a variety of tastes to the table.
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Honolulu, HI
Average Salary: $62,800
In Honolulu, managing a catering team means embracing the island's vibrant culture. Working with tourism-related events offers unique experiences. The city's fresh ingredients provide a bounty for creative menus.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $62,580
Sacramento offers a balanced environment for catering managers. Working with government offices and local businesses provides steady opportunities. The city's agricultural richness offers fresh, local ingredients.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $61,944
San Diego provides a sunny setting for catering managers. With its many beaches and tourist attractions, there are plenty of events to cater. The city's diverse food scene offers a wealth of culinary inspiration.
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Miami, FL
Average Salary: $61,833
In Miami, managing a catering team means tapping into the city's vibrant culture. With many events and festivals, there are constant opportunities. The city's diverse population brings a mix of flavors to the menu.
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What are the best companies a Catering Manager can work for?

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Specialty Restaurants
Average Salary: $79,941
Specialty Restaurants offers exciting opportunities for Catering Managers. They manage catering events across various locations. Their events take place in high-end restaurants and private venues.
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Wolfgang Puck Catering
Average Salary: $70,833
Wolfgang Puck Catering provides top-notch catering services. They work on events in luxury hotels and private homes. Catering Managers here enjoy a creative and dynamic work environment.
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FLIK Hospitality Group
Average Salary: $70,454
FLIK Hospitality Group offers diverse catering opportunities. Catering Managers work in hotels, resorts, and event spaces. They manage events for a wide range of clients.
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ZeroCater
Average Salary: $69,682
ZeroCater provides innovative catering solutions. Catering Managers here work on events in corporate offices and event venues. They focus on delivering high-quality meals.
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Restaurant Associates
Average Salary: $69,542
Restaurant Associates offers catering services in upscale restaurants. Catering Managers manage events in fine dining establishments. They ensure a seamless dining experience for guests.
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CulinArt
Average Salary: $69,227
CulinArt provides catering services for corporate events. Catering Managers work in office buildings and conference centers. They focus on delivering professional catering solutions.
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Fontainebleau Las Vegas
Average Salary: $68,938
Fontainebleau Las Vegas offers exciting catering opportunities. Catering Managers work in luxury hotels and event spaces. They manage high-profile events for a diverse clientele.
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Compass Group
Average Salary: $68,655
Compass Group provides catering services in various locations. Catering Managers work in schools, hospitals, and corporate offices. They ensure quality meals for a wide range of clients.
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Bon Appétit
Average Salary: $68,462
Bon Appétit offers catering services in educational institutions. Catering Managers work in schools and universities. They focus on providing nutritious meals for students.
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Goodwin Recruiting
Average Salary: $68,246
Goodwin Recruiting specializes in placing catering professionals. They connect Catering Managers with top companies. Catering Managers enjoy diverse opportunities in various settings.
How to earn more as a Catering Manager?
A Catering Manager can increase their earnings by focusing on several key areas. First, gaining more experience and expertise in the field can lead to higher-paying positions. This includes mastering different types of events, learning advanced culinary techniques, and understanding the latest trends in catering. Networking with other professionals and attending industry events can also open doors to better opportunities.
Another way to earn more is by expanding one's skill set. Catering Managers who can manage budgets, negotiate contracts, and lead large teams effectively often command higher salaries. Certifications in food management or hospitality can also boost earning potential. Additionally, catering managers who can demonstrate a strong track record of successful events and satisfied clients may be able to negotiate higher pay. Finally, seeking out positions in high-demand areas or with prestigious clients can lead to better compensation.
Here are five factors that can help a Catering Manager earn more:
- Gain experience and expertise in the field.
- Expand skill set to include budget management and team leadership.
- Obtain certifications in food management or hospitality.
- Build a strong reputation for successful events and satisfied clients.
- Seek positions in high-demand areas or with prestigious clients.