How Much Do Community Association Managers Make in Florida?

The salary for a Community Association Manager in Florida can vary widely based on experience, location, and the size and type of community managed. According to O*Net Online, the average annual salary for a CAM in Florida is approximately $65,160.

However, with experience, the potential for growth is significant. For CAMs managing high-end properties or large-scale associations in metropolitan areas like Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Orlando, annual compensation can exceed $120,000. As you gain experience and prove your value, your salary trajectory can see substantial upward movement, making it a financially attractive career long-term.

How Are Community Association Managers Compensated?

The compensation structure for CAMs in Florida is not one-size-fits-all. It often depends on the employer and the nature of the association they manage.

Hourly Pay: CAMs who are new to the field or manage smaller properties are often paid hourly. These wages typically fall between $19 and $59 per hour, reflecting the complexity of the job and the manager’s experience.

Salaried Positions: Most CAMs, especially those overseeing larger communities or luxury communities, are salaried employees. Annual salaries can range from $40,000 to over $120,000.

Bonuses and Incentives: A significant part of a CAM’s earnings can come from performance-based bonuses. These are often tied to metrics like maintaining low delinquency rates, achieving high resident satisfaction, or meeting the financial goals set by the association’s board.

Factors Affecting CAM Pay in Florida

Several key factors affecting pay can influence how much you earn as a CAM. Understanding these can help you strategize your career path for maximum earning potential.

Experience Level: As with most professions, experience is a primary driver of salary. An entry-level CAM will earn less than a seasoned professional with a proven track record of successfully managing large communities.

Property Type: The type of property you manage has a direct impact on your compensation. Managing a luxury high-rise in Miami Beach requires a different skill set and level of responsibility than a small suburban HOA, and the pay reflects that.

Geographic Location: Salaries vary across Florida. Major metropolitan areas like Miami, Naples, and Palm Beach tend to offer higher salaries to compensate for a higher cost of living and more complex management demands.

Size of the Association: Larger communities with more residents, extensive amenities, and bigger budgets typically pay their managers more due to the increased scope of responsibility.

Highest Paying CAM Jobs: What Types of Properties Pay More in Florida?

If you’re aiming for the top of the salary range, focusing on certain types of properties can be a smart career move. These communities often require specialized expertise and, in return, offer higher compensation.

Luxury Condominiums: High-end condominium complexes, particularly in affluent areas like Miami Beach and Naples, command top salaries due to their high-value amenities and discerning residents.

Large Master-Planned Communities: These communities often feature golf courses, resort-style pools, and extensive budgets, which translates to higher pay for the CAMs who manage them.

High-Rise Residential Properties: Managing high-rises in urban centers comes with unique challenges, including strict compliance and complex building systems, which justifies a higher salary.

Golf and Country Club Communities: Exclusive communities built around golf courses or country clubs require managers who can uphold a luxury standard, and they are compensated accordingly.

Active Adult (55+) Communities: These communities often offer extensive lifestyle services and amenities, leading to higher salaries for CAMs who can manage both the property and its vibrant social environment.

Comparison with Related Roles

How does a CAM salary stack up against other property management roles?

CAMs vs. Residential Property Managers: In many instances, a licensed CAM managing a large community association earns more than a residential property manager who oversees individual rental units. The scale and complexity of an association are often greater.

CAMs vs. Commercial Property Managers: Commercial property managers, who handle properties like office buildings or shopping centers, may earn higher salaries. However, a CAM in a top-tier luxury community can certainly earn a comparable income, especially with performance bonuses.

Job Opportunities and Market Demand in Florida

The demand for licensed and skilled CAMs in Florida is consistently strong. As the state’s population grows, so does the number of community associations, creating excellent job stability and career prospects. Holding a CAM License is not just an advantage—it’s often a requirement for managing associations with over ten units or an annual budget exceeding $100,000. This makes the license an essential credential for anyone serious about a career in this field.

Becoming a Licensed CAM in Florida

Ready to start your journey? Becoming a licensed CAM in Florida is a clear and achievable process.

1. Complete a state-approved 16-hour pre-licensure course.
2. Submit your application for licensure.
3. Pass the state examination.

This process ensures you have the foundational knowledge to manage communities effectively and professionally.

At Gold Coast Schools, we’ve helped over a million students launch successful careers since 1970. We are dedicated to your success and offer flexible learning options—including in-person, livestream, and online courses—to fit your life. Our expert instructors are here to provide the support you need every step of the way.

Enroll in our CAM pre-licensing course today and take the first step toward a prosperous new career.

Interested in becoming a Community Association Manager?

Learn more by completing the form below: