How much does a Catering Manager make?
Catering managers play a key role in the food service industry. They oversee all aspects of catering operations. This includes menu planning, budgeting, and client service. Their salary reflects the experience and responsibilities they carry. The average yearly salary for a catering manager is around $51,488. Those who have been in the field for a longer time earn more.
Here are some details about the salary range for catering managers:
- The lowest 10% earn about $29,000 a year.
- The middle 50% earn between $34,091 and $64,636 a year.
- The highest 10% earn more than $79,909 a year.
These figures show that there is potential for growth and higher earnings with experience. Catering managers who excel in their roles can enjoy significant financial rewards.
What are the highest paying cities for a Catering Manager?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $75,484
In San Francisco, one can lead a culinary team, managing high-end events in stunning settings. Work with tech companies and startups for unique catering experiences. The city offers diverse cuisines and vibrant markets.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $72,209
Seattle offers a mix of rustic and refined dining options. Manage catering for tech giants like Amazon and Microsoft. The city’s seafood and coffee culture make it a delight for culinary professionals.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $71,459
Los Angeles provides a lively atmosphere for event catering. Lead teams in high-profile settings for entertainment industry events. The city’s diverse food scene offers endless inspiration.
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Rochester, MN
Average Salary: $69,802
In Rochester, manage catering for healthcare events and corporate functions. The city’s strong community ties create a supportive environment for culinary innovation.
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Colorado Springs, CO
Average Salary: $69,287
Colorado Springs offers scenic backdrops for outdoor events. Manage catering for military and outdoor enthusiast gatherings. The city’s craft beer scene provides unique culinary opportunities.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $65,940
Boston’s historic charm meets modern catering needs. Work with universities and tech firms for diverse event catering. The city’s rich culinary history offers plenty of inspiration.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $65,402
San Jose’s tech-savvy environment offers unique catering opportunities. Manage events for Silicon Valley companies. The city’s diverse population brings a variety of culinary influences.
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Miami, FL
Average Salary: $62,819
Miami’s vibrant culture makes it an exciting place to lead catering. Manage events for the tourism and entertainment sectors. The city’s diverse cuisine offers endless flavor combinations.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $62,638
Sacramento provides a blend of government and community events. Manage catering for state agencies and local organizations. The city’s agricultural scene offers fresh produce options.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $62,407
San Diego offers a mix of coastal and urban catering experiences. Lead teams for events at the beach and in the city. The city’s seafood and craft beer scene are a culinary highlight.
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What are the best companies a Catering Manager can work for?

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Specialty Restaurants
Average Salary: $77,483
Specialty Restaurants offers exciting Catering Manager jobs. They have many locations across the United States. Their events range from corporate gatherings to weddings. They are known for their attention to detail and high-quality service.
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Compass Group
Average Salary: $70,392
Compass Group provides Catering Manager positions with solid pay and benefits. They operate in various sectors, including education, healthcare, and business. They focus on providing quality food and service in different environments.
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Restaurant Associates
Average Salary: $70,167
Restaurant Associates offers Catering Manager jobs with competitive salaries. They work with many types of clients, including hotels and corporate clients. They emphasize teamwork and customer satisfaction in their roles.
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FLIK Hospitality Group
Average Salary: $69,709
FLIK Hospitality Group provides diverse Catering Manager jobs. They have properties in many locations. They focus on delivering excellent service and unique dining experiences. Their teams work closely to ensure each event is a success.
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Wolfgang Puck Catering
Average Salary: $69,367
Wolfgang Puck Catering offers exciting Catering Manager opportunities. They are known for their gourmet menus and high standards. They work with a variety of clients, from private parties to large events. Their focus is on culinary excellence.
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Bon Appétit
Average Salary: $69,052
Bon Appétit provides Catering Manager roles with good pay. They offer positions in many sectors, including education and healthcare. They focus on providing healthy and delicious food options. Their teams work to meet diverse client needs.
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Fontainebleau Las Vegas
Average Salary: $68,549
Fontainebleau Las Vegas offers Catering Manager jobs with attractive salaries. They are a major player in the hospitality industry. They provide unique and memorable catering experiences. Their events range from corporate functions to lavish parties.
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Goodwin Recruiting
Average Salary: $68,474
Goodwin Recruiting places Catering Managers in top companies. They offer competitive salaries and benefits. They connect job seekers with firms that value their skills. They focus on matching candidates with the right opportunities.
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HEI Hotels & Resorts
Average Salary: $67,984
HEI Hotels & Resorts provides Catering Manager positions with solid pay. They operate many luxury hotels and resorts. They focus on delivering exceptional service and memorable experiences. Their teams work to exceed guest expectations.
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Eurest
Average Salary: $67,167
Eurest offers Catering Manager jobs with good pay and benefits. They serve various sectors, including corporate and education. They focus on providing high-quality food and service. Their teams work to meet the unique needs of each client.
How to earn more as a Catering Manager?
Working as a Catering Manager involves overseeing the planning and execution of events, ensuring everything runs smoothly. If you wish to earn more in this role, consider these key strategies:
- Gain experience: Each year of experience can open up higher-paying opportunities. Aim for roles that offer growth and challenges.
- Specialize: Expertise in specific types of events, such as corporate functions or weddings, can command higher pay. Specializing can make you more valuable.
- Certifications: Obtaining certifications in event management or culinary arts can boost your credentials and salary. These certifications show dedication to the field.
- Network: Building strong relationships with clients and industry professionals can lead to higher-paying contracts. A good network often results in more job offers.
- Manage larger events: Handling bigger, more complex events usually means higher pay. Take on larger projects to increase your earning potential.
By focusing on these areas, a Catering Manager can enhance their professional profile and earn more. Each step helps build a solid foundation for financial success in the catering industry.



