A hotel director’s remuneration varies by property category and location. This guide sets out the salary ranges observed in France for 2026.
This guide is for owners of mid-range and high-end hotels. It can help you set the remuneration for your next general manager.
In brief:
- Salaries in Paris are considerably higher than those outside the capital.
- The Côte d’Azur and the Alps sit around 15% to 25% above the average for other regions.
- A five-star hotel director earns between €55,000 and €130,000 depending on location. Palace hotel salaries can reach €250,000.
- Fixed pay accounts for around 70% of the package, variable pay 20% and benefits in kind 10%.
What influences remuneration
The category and size of the property determine the level of responsibility. Location matters too: within the same category, salary ranges in Paris are higher than those outside the capital, as the figures below show.
The Côte d’Azur and the Alps sit around 15% to 25% above the average for other regions.
Salary ranges by type of property
Two and three-star hotels
Outside Paris, annual gross fixed pay ranges from €35,000 to €55,000. In Paris, the range is €39,000 to €65,000.
Four-star hotels
Outside Paris, fixed pay ranges from €40,000 to €70,000. In Paris, it ranges from €48,000 to €100,000.
Five-star hotels
At a five-star property outside Paris, fixed pay ranges from €55,000 to €90,000. In Paris, it ranges from €70,000 to €130,000.
Luxury hotels / Palaces
Outside Paris, annual gross fixed pay ranges from €90,000 to €200,000 depending on the destination and the property’s category and reputation. In Paris, it can reach €250,000.
The full package: fixed pay, variable pay and benefits
Fixed pay accounts for around 70% of the overall package, variable pay 20% and benefits in kind 10%. The exact structure of the variable element and benefits depends on the role and the property.
How we help set an offer for a leadership role
Our hospitality recruitment consultancy starts by defining the property’s category and size, the scope of the role and the proposed remuneration package.
The assessment then considers the candidate’s experience, management style, past results, motivation and fit with your context. At your request, and with the candidate’s prior agreement, we take references.
Frequently asked questions
How can I tell whether my offer is positioned correctly?
Compare it with the ranges in this guide, taking account of your region and the property category. If there is a significant gap in either direction, speak to us. An offer that is too low can lengthen the recruitment process, while one that is too high can unbalance your payroll.
Explore our tailored approach and the role of our executive search team.
Read our guidance on recruiting a hotel director and recruiting for a five-star hotel.