Property Manager FAQ

It depends on the state; some require a real estate license.

Not always. Many managers start as leasing agents.

It can be, especially with emergencies and difficult residents.

The median annual wage for property managers was $69,990 ($33.65 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $41,010 and the highest 10% earned more than $139,680.

Most people need about 1–3 years of experience of training. A high school diploma plus experience is typical; many property managers have degrees in business or real estate. Some states require a real estate license for leasing or management activities.

No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education, plus short-term on-the-job training.

It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +3.7% from 2025–35 (about as fast as average), with about 36,900 openings each year. Upsides include variety of tasks; a common challenge is that difficult residents and evictions.

Key technical skills include leasing and marketing, fair housing compliance, property management software, and budgeting. Employers also value customer service, conflict resolution, and organization.

Common credentials include Certified Apartment Manager (CAM), Certified Property Manager (CPM), Accredited Residential Manager (ARM), and Real estate license. Some states require property managers to hold a real estate license or a property management license. Fair housing and landlord-tenant laws apply everywhere.