ARE YOU LOOKING TO PIVOT YOUR CAREER? CONSIDER THE FIELD OF COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION MANAGEMENT!

Career Outlook

Community association management continues to thrive as a dynamic and rewarding career path in the U.S. and internationally.

Community association management is a resilient sector, offering bright opportunities, particularly for those transitioning from service industries. This field provides excellent potential for professionals who want to build a people-facing career in a growing industry.

In 2023, approximately 365,000 community associations housed over 75.5 million residents in the United States—an increase of 10 million compared to a decade ago. With 30% of the U.S. population living in community associations, the demand for skilled managers continues to grow.

This growing population has fueled a rise in demand for professional management services.

With an estimated 10,000 management companies and up to 65,000 on-site and off-site managers, career prospects in this field are expanding rapidly.

Community management offers a fulfilling career with significant growth potential if you’re a people person with strong multitasking skills.

Community association management offers excellent career prospects, especially for those with a college degree and a recognized professional designation. It’s estimated that up to 30% of all ownership housing is in one of the three basic types of community associations. As the field continues to grow, new job opportunities will emerge, and additional roles will open due to the need to replace managers who transfer, retire, or leave the profession.

As of December 2024, the median annual wage for community association managers was just over $78,400. With steady demand, employment in the industry is projected to grow in the coming years, creating exciting opportunities for those interested in this career path.

Because job prospects and wages vary by state, researching the specifics in your area is a great first step toward a fulfilling career. With industry growth and workforce turnover, now is the perfect time to explore opportunities in community association management.

CMCA – The Essential Credential

The Certified Manager of Community Associations (CMCA) credential is a cornerstone for building a successful career in community association management. It demonstrates your competence in key management practices, commitment to ethical standards, and dedication to continuing education—qualities employers highly value.

Employers seek out dedicated professionals, and having the CMCA credential after your name can be the key to landing that all-important first interview. The CMCA credential is both accessible and affordable.

Achieving it requires just a few days of prerequisite coursework, some study time, and one exam.

With its relatively low cost, the CMCA is an excellent investment in your future.

Earning the CMCA credential enhances your professional image and expertise and opens the door to higher earnings—on average, 20% more than non-credentialed managers. Take the first step toward advancing your career today.

Is a Certified Manager of Community Associations Career Right for You?

Community association management offers an engaging and rewarding career path if you’re looking for a new opportunity. This dynamic field allows you to leverage your people skills while exploring a varied and fulfilling role. You’ll work closely with residents and Board members, oversee community operations, hire and supervise vendors, and collaborate with community leaders—all while making a tangible difference in the lives of those you serve.

Successful community association managers are organized, adaptable, and detail-oriented. They thoroughly understand community policies and thrive on multitasking in fast-paced environments. But what truly sets the best managers apart are their exceptional interpersonal skills and their ability to communicate effectively with a diverse range of people. Whether you’re guiding a Board meeting or ensuring a vendor delivers quality work, this role is perfect for those who enjoy variety and connection in their day-to-day responsibilities.

If you’re ready to pivot into a career that values your dedication and people-focused approach, community association management might be the perfect fit.

An Interactive and Rewarding Career Opportunity

Life as a community association manager comes with unique rewards built into the job. You’ll earn a competitive living and enjoy continuous learning opportunities and the chance to meet people from all walks of life. With the variety of tasks and challenges you’ll face daily, boredom is never an option—this role is packed with exciting and dynamic responsibilities!

That said, community association management isn’t for everyone. This might not be the right fit if you’re looking for a low-pressure role with fixed hours and minimal challenges. But if you’re a natural people-person who thrives on staying up-to-date with industry regulations, approaches life with positivity and enthusiasm, and can remain composed under pressure, this career offers unparalleled engagement and stimulation.

Becoming a Certified Manager of Community Associations (CMCA) is more than just earning a credential—it’s a gateway to an exciting and fulfilling career. The CMCA designation enhances your credibility, increases employer confidence in your skills, and opens doors to incredible opportunities for growth and stability in a thriving industry.