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General manager job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected general manager job growth rate is 6% from 2018-2028.
About 189,200 new jobs for general managers are projected over the next decade.
General manager salaries have increased 4% for general managers in the last 5 years.
There are over 1,204,568 general managers currently employed in the United States.
There are 442,690 active general manager job openings in the US.
The average general manager salary is $71,581.
Year![]() ![]() | # Of Jobs![]() ![]() | % Of Population![]() ![]() |
---|---|---|
2021 | 1,204,568 | 0.36% |
2020 | 951,533 | 0.28% |
2019 | 974,878 | 0.29% |
2018 | 931,330 | 0.28% |
2017 | 901,123 | 0.27% |
Year![]() ![]() | Avg. Salary![]() ![]() | Hourly Rate![]() ![]() | % Change![]() ![]() |
---|---|---|---|
2025 | $71,581 | $34.41 | +2.8% |
2024 | $69,599 | $33.46 | --0.1% |
2023 | $69,703 | $33.51 | +0.5% |
2022 | $69,344 | $33.34 | +1.1% |
2021 | $68,584 | $32.97 | +1.6% |
Rank![]() ![]() | State![]() ![]() | Population![]() ![]() | # of Jobs![]() ![]() | Employment/ 1000ppl ![]() ![]() |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 531 | 77% |
2 | Delaware | 961,939 | 561 | 58% |
3 | South Carolina | 5,024,369 | 2,791 | 56% |
4 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 758 | 56% |
5 | Kansas | 2,913,123 | 1,559 | 54% |
6 | Indiana | 6,666,818 | 3,560 | 53% |
7 | Minnesota | 5,576,606 | 2,964 | 53% |
8 | Missouri | 6,113,532 | 3,194 | 52% |
9 | Alabama | 4,874,747 | 2,520 | 52% |
10 | Kentucky | 4,454,189 | 2,317 | 52% |
11 | Wyoming | 579,315 | 303 | 52% |
12 | Virginia | 8,470,020 | 4,296 | 51% |
13 | Ohio | 11,658,609 | 5,823 | 50% |
14 | Georgia | 10,429,379 | 5,227 | 50% |
15 | North Carolina | 10,273,419 | 5,159 | 50% |
16 | Tennessee | 6,715,984 | 3,347 | 50% |
17 | Iowa | 3,145,711 | 1,559 | 50% |
18 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 3,365 | 49% |
19 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 2,953 | 49% |
20 | North Dakota | 755,393 | 372 | 49% |
Rank![]() ![]() | City![]() ![]() | # of Jobs![]() ![]() | Employment/ 1000ppl ![]() ![]() | Avg. Salary![]() ![]() |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Lansing | 14 | 12% | $58,215 |
2 | Grand Rapids | 22 | 11% | $57,235 |
3 | Atlanta | 38 | 8% | $53,010 |
4 | Scottsdale | 17 | 7% | $55,610 |
5 | Orlando | 18 | 6% | $55,142 |
6 | Sacramento | 24 | 5% | $96,120 |
7 | Urban Honolulu | 16 | 5% | $95,842 |
8 | New Orleans | 15 | 4% | $55,327 |
9 | Indianapolis | 28 | 3% | $52,722 |
10 | Denver | 23 | 3% | $60,975 |
11 | Washington | 22 | 3% | $90,607 |
12 | Baltimore | 17 | 3% | $70,146 |
13 | Boston | 17 | 3% | $81,775 |
14 | Phoenix | 33 | 2% | $55,885 |
15 | Jacksonville | 20 | 2% | $53,750 |
16 | San Jose | 18 | 2% | $98,086 |
17 | Chicago | 27 | 1% | $59,793 |
18 | Los Angeles | 22 | 1% | $91,424 |
19 | San Diego | 18 | 1% | $88,341 |
Susquehanna University
University of Memphis
University of New Hampshire
Austin Community College
University of Nevada - Las Vegas
Murray State University
Temple University
University of South Florida
Texas A&M University
New Mexico State University
University of Alaska Fairbanks
Coastal Carolina University
Indiana University Kokomo
Dr. Robert Meuret: Ongoing staffing challenges are resulting in historic career opportunities for hotel employees. There are more than 70,000 hotel jobs currently open across the nation, according to Indeed. This means that recent graduates can be more selective in employers. Graduates should be interviewing future employers during the interview process. They should seek out employers with a clear path to growth opportunities, supportive management, competitive benefits (health insurance, 401K with match, PTO, etc..,) and of course competitive wages. Seek out managers who will help you meet your goals, not just theirs. As of December 2023, national average hotel wages were at an all-time high of $23.91 per hour, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Dr. Robert Meuret: Our hotel partners and advisory board members really drive what we teach in the classroom. They advise us on the skills and competencies needed in today’s hotels. Hotels are looking for graduates with strong communication skills. Technical skills are also valued, such as proficiency in Excel and Word. Students also need to learn Revenue Management and how data is now driving decision making on hotel rates, events and guest experience, using tools such as STR reports (Smith Travel Research). Thes skills will still be important in the next 3-5 years. AI has the potential to change the hospitality industry by improving efficiency. It could also personalize customer experiences, identify trends, and reduce operational costs. Managing AI related technology may be the next frontier of hospitality management.
Dr. Robert Meuret: The hospitality industry is a global business. Students who are looking to maximize their earning potential should be open to relocating domestically or internationally. Even short stints working overseas can make your resume really standout. Learning another language like Spanish, Chinese, Sign language or Japanese can also enhance your earning potential, especially in bigger US cities and international destinations. Learning the skills I mentioned before is not always enough. Can you prove that you have obtained these skills through industry recognized certifications or digital badges. A digital badge is a tangible representation of an individual’s competencies and skills. They are designed to be easily shareable and verifiable, typically containing verifiable data such as the badge earner's name, the issuing organization, and the criteria met to earn the badge. Here at the University of Kentucky Hospitality Management and Tourism program our students have many opportunities to earn industry recognized certifications and digital badges. For example, students have earned Certification in Analytics, Distillation, Entrepreneurship, ServSafe, CVENT and Google Sheets. Internships are another great way to gain experience while still in school. Employers value work experience, and a summer internship in your chosen field may just be the deciding factor in your hiring and salary. With so many hospitality students graduating from universities all over the world, students will need to really stand out during the application and interview process. The ability to bring your education, experience and proof of skills valued by the employer will put students in a better position to negotiate a higher salary.
Dr. Oliver Jones: In the next 3-5 years, certain skills are expected to become increasingly important and prevalent in the hospitality field. These may include: Technological Proficiency, Adaptability and Resilience, Sustainability Awareness, and Cultural Competence.
Dr. Oliver Jones: As graduates embark on their careers in hospitality management, my general advice would be to prioritize gaining hands-on experience through internships, part-time jobs, or entry-level positions. Building a strong foundation of practical skills and industry knowledge early on can significantly enhance career prospects. Additionally, networking and building relationships within the industry can open doors to opportunities and provide valuable mentorship. Finally, remain adaptable and open to learning, as the hospitality landscape continues to evolve.
Dr. Oliver Jones: Maximizing salary potential in the hospitality field often requires a combination of factors. Firstly, gaining relevant experience and continually updating skills can enhance marketability and justify higher compensation. Pursuing advanced certifications or specialized training in areas such as revenue management, event planning, or hospitality technology can also command higher salaries. Additionally, networking and building a strong professional reputation can lead to opportunities for advancement and higher-paying positions. Lastly, considering geographical locations and industries within hospitality that offer higher salaries, such as luxury hospitality or corporate hospitality, can also impact earning potential.
Mr. Bill Knapp: Entering hospitality is a seller's market, with the industry expanding rapidly post-pandemic. There is a high demand for managers, leading to multiple job offers for graduates and exciting opportunities to lead teams and contribute to management.
Mr. Bill Knapp: Hospitality managers focus on providing exceptional guest experiences, planning ahead, understanding operations, and wearing multiple hats such as being human resource managers, buyers, bookkeepers, and technical experts. They must keep up with industry trends, the economy, and new regulations.
Mr. Bill Knapp: Most managers enjoy the variety in their job, performing different tasks and managing various events. The most common complaint is the long hours and job stresses, but efforts are being made to improve work-life balance and reduce stress.
Xiaodan Mao-Clark Ph.D.: To maximize starting salary, students should network, gain relevant work experience, and negotiate for fair compensation and relocation packages during job interviews. Researching salary ranges and adjusting for cost of living are also important.
Xiaodan Mao-Clark Ph.D.: A career in hospitality and tourism is extremely rewarding. Employers nowadays are looking for candidates with specialized skillsets. Graduates are encouraged to deepen their skills, polish their communication skills, and stay updated with industry trends.
Xiaodan Mao-Clark Ph.D.: Finance and data analytics skills are becoming more important in the hospitality and tourism industry due to increased competition and generative AI. Graduates with these skills will have an advantage in the job market.
Scott Taylor Jr.: This is an interesting question for our field and really is job dependent. I think for a graduate starting their career in hospitality and tourism it will be more about how to budget and plan effectively so that they can enjoy the money they are making no matter what that starting pay is. Going back to my first answer though, being open to new opportunities, learning new things, and a willingness to work more or harder than everyone else goes a long way in an industry that is 24/7 – 365 such as the hospitality and tourism industry.
Scott Taylor Jr.: Understanding how to utilize AI, Data, and Technology in general to understand trends and create interesting experiences for guests will continue to be important skills in the coming years.
Scott Taylor Jr.: Don’t be afraid to take on new roles or learn new skills, this might mean working longer or more hours but, in our industry, the more you know, and the larger skill set you have, especially early in your career the greater number of doors open for you later. Also, given the global nature of our industry if you are open to moving you could find yourself having some great opportunities.
Susquehanna University
Business Administration, Management And Operations
Lauren Smith: Lauren Smith advises graduates to actively engage in a dual pursuit of entrepreneurship and traditional corporate roles, emphasizing the importance of gaining diverse experiences.
Lauren Smith: Lauren Smith suggests that maximizing salary potential at the start of a career can be achieved by acquiring experience in different facets of business, such as entrepreneurship, corporate roles, and operational management.
Lauren Smith: Lauren Smith highlights the significance of skills in organizational management, operations, training development, and marketing, providing a well-rounded perspective on corporate dynamics.
Rui Qi Ph.D.: Focus on building your competitive advantages, which can be interdisciplinary. For example, some hospitality students minor in real estate finance to become asset managers for large hotel chains. Others explore the healthcare industry where there is demand for managerial-level employees who oversee the hospitality aspects of healthcare facilities, aiming to improve the experience of patients and their families.
Rui Qi Ph.D.: Knowing how to utilize ChatGPT as a tool for self-empowerment, but also using it appropriately.
Rui Qi Ph.D.: Stay curious and make learning a daily habit, especially with AI shaping the industry. Soft skills like communication and adaptability are also key for hospitality students.
Dr. Markus Schuckert: Most important: gain work experience. Relevant work experience and a track record will help you to increase your salary potential. Learn as much as possible about your job, including the roles and responsibilities of your colleagues and the management. An upgrade with relevant micro credentials and great networking are a plus.
Dr. Markus Schuckert: Hospitality managers oversee various aspects including staff coordination, service management, event planning and design, and real estate development. Across all these professions, the primary goal of hospitality management remains the same: to ensure every customer has a flawless and memorable experience. It is important to stay up-to-date with consumer trends, technology, and AI.
Dr. Markus Schuckert: Get hands-on experience as soon as possible and learn to understand your customers as well as related processes in the back office. Try to understand the business from the cost side and what drives the revenues in your particular area. Depending on the company and your career objectives, manager-in-training programs have advantages over an in-line position. Sign up for international work experience programs if your company offers this opportunity. Travel and see the world to learn about your customers, different markets, and competition.
Austin Community College
Hospitality Administration/Management
Franklin Marciales: To maximize your salary potential when starting your career in hospitality and tourism, focus on developing a unique skillset that is in high demand, such as proficiency in a specific language, expertise in a particular type of cuisine or beverage, or advanced knowledge of hospitality software and systems.
Franklin Marciales: In 5 years, the tourism and hospitality industry employees will be expected to prioritize skills such as digital literacy, data analysis, and sustainability. With the rise of technology, hotels, resorts, and travel companies will need employees who can effectively use digital tools to manage customer relationships, analyze customer behavior, and optimize operational efficiency. One of the most effective leadership skills employees should practice is humility. Humility is a soft leadership skill that will help employees to be thoughtful, considerate, compassionate, and understanding.
Franklin Marciales: As a graduate entering the hospitality, travel, and tourism industry, my main advice would be to be flexible, adaptable, and open-minded. I believe students entering the workforce should be prepared to start at the bottom and learn from every experience, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant. It is also very important to build strong relationships with colleagues and superiors, and be willing to take on new challenges and responsibilities as they arise.
University of Nevada - Las Vegas
Hospitality Administration/Management
Bobbie Barnes: I remember hearing from a hospitality executive that managers lose their jobs for one of two reasons. Either their role does not add value, or they as a contributor don’t add value. I believe that the same goes for promotions and salary increases. I encourage recent graduates to apply in their workplaces what they learned in their coursework. By knowing and demonstrating their worth, graduates can make positive contributions to your workplace daily, which enhance opportunities for promotions and salary increases.
Bobbie Barnes: Artificial intelligence continues to automate repetitive hospitality tasks providing time for hospitality managers to focus on creating incredible experiences and authentic guest interactions. As such, leadership competencies in strategic and ethical decision-making, problem-solving, creativity, and teamwork will be critical.
Bobbie Barnes: 1. Sometimes recent graduates say, “It’s just my first job after college.” No, it’s never just a job. Whatever position the recent graduate lands after college, it is important to remember that it’s just an incredibly long interview until the next opportunity. Having this attitude will set graduates up to be promotable within their current company or ready to make a leap to a new opportunity. 2. Hard work is the key to success. Taking initiative and saying “yes” to opportunities to contribute whether it is a project at work or a service initiative within the community provides an avenue to gain new skills and perspectives. Saying “yes” when others say “no” can be a defining moment for a recent graduate.
Murray State University
Educational Administration And Supervision
Dr. Ben Littlepage: I believe skills associated with organizational systems (e.g. procedures, processes) and hybridized management are essential for the field. Organizations (e.g. schools, institutions) will continue to be lean for a variety of reasons. The ability to achieve results by refining systems and maximizing resources cannot be understated. Hybrid work schedules and communication are not leaving education. Leaders that embrace hybridized technologies for assessment, employee satisfaction and development, and content delivery will remain competitive in the face of a private market looking to capitalize on laggard leaders.
Dr. Ben Littlepage: I recommend new graduates pursue opportunities that offer a tangible skill or experience. Be the 'yes' person in the office, even if there is not a monetary reward. You will eventually leverage those opportunities for a gain.
Dr. Ben Littlepage: Salary is maximized when leaders are sought after. Leaders who pursue meaningful experiences and remain 'market ready' are viewed as an asset to any organization. Leaders must carefully consider where the field is moving and respond.
Andrew Lovell: I may be a bit “old school” but I strongly believe that a savvy and skilled manager of employee teams will never fall off this list, and likely will be even more valuable in coming years as the mix of multiple generations in the workforce continues. Communicating well with people as you lead is just essential! Second, without question managers that can utilize AI for efficient and positive experience enhancement in their hospitality environments will be highly sought after. Third, the manager that can create budgets and financial plans that contribute to increased profitability will always be important.
Andrew Lovell: For those entering hospitality management, I always urge folks to be ready to seek opportunities for improvement. This could mean a commitment to networking, seeking out a professional association, or raising your hand for a committee or a project in your workplace. Getting that first job and your foot-in-the-door should not be the start of a period of relaxation. A high potential employee continues to find ways to add value while remaining true to who they are as a contributor and a person.
Andrew Lovell: Have a thirst for knowledge! Take advantage of training and development opportunities. Apply for the management training program that the HR team or corporate office promotes. Be willing to relocate in order to accelerate your career path – do it once and it’ll be easier the next time an opportunity arises! And of course, I’d recommend exploring a master’s degree program in hospitality management or an MBA program to unlock higher earning potential.
Dr. Kim Roberts: Business professionals lead organizations by focused efforts that revolve around products/services, processes, and people. Business professionals work to ensure the firm's products and/or services meet customer expectations, with an eye toward an ever-changing market. They manage processes that produce or support the firm's products. This requires the ability to analyze data to make informed decisions, to drive continuous improvement, and to solve problems through critical thinking. Successful business professionals must also create climates that promote teamwork and foster collaboration.
Dr. Kim Roberts: Now is a good time to enter business professions because of the projected growth of employment opportunities. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, "Overall employment in business and financial occupations is projected to grow faster than the average for all occupations from 2022 to 2032." Furthermore, the growth of online learning and online degrees means a full-time job and family commitments are not roadblocks to earning a business degree.
Luana Nanu: Boosting your salary potential in the hospitality industry starts with specialized education and gaining experience through internships in diverse settings (Pretty much following my advice of always being open to experiences that can enrich your skills and resume). Networking within the industry through conferences and professional associations can open doors to mentorships and job opportunities (being as involved as possible from as early as possible). Do research on the companies that you are applying too as well as the areas. Look at the brand history and ability to climb within the organization. Don’t be shy and ask in your interview what are the opportunities to advance within the role, or cross training.
Continuously update your knowledge on the latest industry trends and technologies and cultivate a professional online presence to showcase your expertise and achievements (take advantage of all the profession certifications you can get, especially at USF, we provide LinkedIn learn certificates for free).
But I do want to emphasize that the more experience you have, the better the pay. That is why it is important to start as early as possible. And take advantage of your network, especially your professors, ask them to introduce you to key industry professionals.
Luana Nanu: To be open to experiences and to start as soon as possible. Our industry is so diverse, branching into so many fields. The more exposed you get the higher the chances of making yourself competitive. Moreover, I would also advice the graduates to make sure they get enough experience before they graduate, be it paid or not paid experience, any learning opportunity counts. Lastly, dream big, don’t give up, and do not take no for an answer.
Luana Nanu: Firstly, digital literacy and technology proficiency will be essential as the sector increasingly employs AI and data analytics to enhance guest experiences and operational efficiency. Secondly, with a growing focus on environmental sustainability, expertise in sustainable practices such as energy efficiency, waste reduction, and eco-friendly service innovation will be highly valued, there are so many online opportunities to learn about this and even get certifications. Thirdly, cultural intelligence and diversity awareness will be key for catering to a global clientele, requiring professionals to navigate cultural differences and promote inclusivity. Lastly, adaptability and crisis management skills will be indispensable in responding to rapid changes and challenges, ensuring businesses can thrive amid economic, health, or technological disruptions.
Texas A&M University
Hospitality Administration/Management
Po-Ju Chen Ph.D.: - Always find opportunities and trainings if offered to enhance your knowledge, skills and abilities needed at the workplace.
- Step up for call for projects - Learning by doing
- Communicate your career aspirations with the Human Resources and your mentors
Po-Ju Chen Ph.D.: - Be geographically flexible for more opportunities for their career development.
- Be our future leaders in
Po-Ju Chen Ph.D.: - Guest services skills are becoming even more important in the Post Pandemic Era
- Be technologically savvy especially the interactive technologies, generative AI, etc.
- Willing to learn
- Teamwork
- Effective listening skills - pay attention to issues, concerns and guest complaints to identify root problem.
- Problem-solving skills - Find solutions to resolve issues
Dr. Erinn Tucker-Oluwole PhD: The skills that will be the most important are being a. technologically savvy in your job, b. managing a diverse workforce and customers, c. financial and budget management.
Dr. Erinn Tucker-Oluwole PhD: There are so many jobs in the hospitality and tourism industry that many graduates have not been exposed to so be open. 1. Gain as much experience as possible through structured internships with companies before you graduate because this allows you to see all of the departments and jobs that the company employees. 2. Apply for management development programs so you can develop management and leadership skills with that company. 3. Join industry associations and getting involved as a member is the best networking tool.
Dr. Erinn Tucker-Oluwole PhD: After an offer is made, review all of the responsibilities of the position. Ask for a salary increase. If the number is fixed, then ask for other benefits that are offered by the company which may include e.g. transportation, mobile phone, extra vacation time, professional development funds, etc.
Dr. Jean Hertzman Ph.D., CCE, CSW, CSS: Be open to all opportunities. The hospitality industry provides you with the incredible ability to work anywhere in the country or the world. Gaining exposure to different locations and cultures increases your hospitality awareness and cultural competency.
While the industry needs plenty of employees and leaders in the traditional segments of and management positions in hotels, food and beverage, resorts, and meetings and events, positions that need people with the skills you have learned in hospitality are available in just about any business. Some growing areas are outdoor recreation, entertainment and film as well as emerging jobs in sustainability, diversity, equity, and inclusion, and technology.
Dr. Jean Hertzman Ph.D., CCE, CSW, CSS: Get as much experience while you are in your studies as possible, including part-time jobs, internships, and leadership positions in student clubs and activities. Employers want to see that you understand the industry, can work with others, and truly have the passion for it. Having the skills listed in Question 2 will make you stand out. While it is okay to have some short-term jobs, do not jump around to different companies just for a slightly better wage. Have realistic expectations about salary and benefits. Making the company culture fits you has become just as important. If you show your dedication and willingness to learn in a company, you will be rewarded and promoted.
Jaunelle Celaire: Leadership - the world needs more of these; the ability to lead, craft and grow. Digital literacy - this world is definitely turning digital and virtual is the new trend. Emotional intelligence - there is a vast number of personalities in our world today; individuals grow and it is our job to stay emotionally connected, so we can operate more effectively.
Jaunelle Celaire: Never stop learning! This may consist of going back to school, earning new certifications in your field of study, attending conferences and seminars, and making sure that your time management is always at its finest level of excellence.
Jaunelle Celaire: 2. Leadership - the world needs more of these; the ability to lead, craft and grow. Digital literacy - this world is definitely turning digital and virtual is the new trend. Emotional intelligence - there is a vast number of personalities in our world today; individuals grow and it is our job to stay emotionally connected, so we can operate more effectively.
Coastal Carolina University
Hospitality Administration/Management
Sun-Hwa Kim: Skills such as data analytics will become prevalent, particularly for students aspiring to leadership roles.
Creativity will also gain more importance because service products are going for greater personalization
and experiential value. Hospitality professionals will need to develop stronger flexibility and out-of-the-
box thinking. Furthermore, the ability to handle crises like future pandemics will be vital. Therefore, the
ability to design and execute contingency plans would be a valuable asset for any hospitality
professional.
Indiana University Kokomo
Business/Commerce
Mark Meng Ph.D.: Analytical skill comes at the top. The hospitality world has becoming increasingly
dependent on data. Crisis and emergency management demonstrated their importance
in the past three years across all areas of the hospitality industry.
Mark Meng Ph.D.: Keeping that student mindset may increase your potential. Hospitality is different from
traditional STEM, and that means one still has a lot to learn when practicing in the real-
world business. Four-year higher education will only get your foot in the door. In this
fast-changing industry, keep learning new skills and expending your knowledge base
can push you further.