Food Service Managers Salary in Washington, DC-VA-MD-WV

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV

Median annual salary $77,620 +18.8% vs national
Median hourly $37.32
10th percentile $59,140
90th percentile $128,880
Employed locally 3,490
National median $65,310

Compare Food Service Managers salary & buying power

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    Food Service Managers in the Washington, DC-VA-MD-WV area have a median annual salary of $77,620, which is notably higher than the national median for this occupation at $65,310. This indicates that Food Service Managers in this region earn approximately 18% more than their counterparts across the United States. When compared to the local median household income of $123,896, it becomes evident that while a significant portion of households earns more than the median salary for these managers, many fall below this benchmark. The higher compensation reflects the area's competitive job market and potentially higher cost of living, as evidenced by the relatively low local unemployment rate of 3.00%.

    The earnings potential for Food Service Managers varies significantly based on experience, with entry-level workers earning closer to the 10th percentile at $59,140 annually, while those at the 25th percentile earn around $67,180. As managers gain experience and demonstrate increased proficiency in their roles, salaries tend to rise substantially, reaching a median of $77,620. Those who achieve higher levels of expertise and responsibility can see earnings as high as the 75th percentile, which is approximately $100,700 annually, with top performers potentially earning up to $128,880 at the 90th percentile. The disparity in earnings between entry-level and experienced managers is driven by factors such as managerial skills, experience, the size and complexity of operations managed, and the ability to effectively handle financial and personnel management tasks.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $59,140
    25th
    $67,180
    50th (median)
    $77,620
    75th
    $100,700
    90th
    $128,880

    Washington economic context

    Unemployment rate 3.00% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $123,896 2023 • Census ACS
    Food Service Managers salary vs area income 63% Median Food Service Managers salary is 37% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Food Service Managers make per hour in Washington?

    The median hourly wage for Food Service Managers in Washington, DC-VA-MD-WV is $37.32, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $62.29 or more per hour.

    Is Washington above or below average for Food Service Managers salaries?

    The median Food Service Managers salary in Washington, DC-VA-MD-WV is 18.8% above the national median of $65,310. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Food Service Managers in Washington?

    Entry-level Food Service Managers (10th percentile) earn around $59,140 per year in Washington, DC-VA-MD-WV. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $67,180.