The real estate business was traditionally a male-dominated sector, but, increasingly, many women are joining the ranks, particularly in property management within the sector. Property management is one of the few property management professions with such a notable predominance of women among its professionals; yet, within it, such concerns as insufficient leadership and pay equity continue to plague its members.
So, what percentage of property managers are female? In the United States, 61.9% of property managers are women. However, the representation of women in property management varies globally. In India, for example, women make up only 25.1% of the real estate workforce. This blog explores gender distribution in property management, the challenges women face, and what can be done to improve gender diversity in the field.
Gender Distribution of Property Managers in the U.S.
Current Statistics
Zippia indicates that women account for 62.0% of property managers in the United States, while men comprise 38.0%: The percentage of females has been slowly but surely increasing through the years. In 2010, the number of female property managers was 60.7%, which means an increase of 1.3% over the last decade.
Comparison Over the Years
Data shows that women have consistently made up most property managers in the U.S.
Year | Female Property Managers | Male Property Managers | % Female Property Managers | % Male Property Managers |
2019 | 62.0% | 38.0% | ||
2018 | 60.1% | 39.9% | ||
2017 | 59.7% | 40.3% | ||
2016 | 60.0% | 40.0% | ||
2015 | 59.0% | 41.0% |
Gender Pay Gap in Property Management
It's ironic that despite the fact property management is a female-oriented profession, there remains an existing gender pay gap. For example, on average, a male property manager earns $46,640, while a female property manager makes $43,095. In this sense, a female property manager earns 92 cents of a dollar made by a male property manager.
Gender Representation in Property Management in India
In contrast to the United States, India’s real estate sector has a low female labor force participation rate.
Low Female Participation in Real Estate
Out of 71 million workers in India’s real estate sector, only 7 million are women, resulting in a 25.1% participation rate.
The lack of female representation in leadership roles and workplace safety concerns prevent more women from entering the industry.
Cultural and Social Barriers
Real estate is traditionally seen as a male-driven industry in India.
Women face limited opportunities in senior management roles.
Gender biases and safety concerns make it difficult for women to participate in fieldwork or site inspections.
Women in Commercial Real Estate (CRE)
Increase in Female Real Estate Professionals
Women now make up 70% of realtors in the U.S., showing a significant shift in gender dynamics within the industry.
Challenges in Leadership Representation
Despite making up the majority in property management, only 1.3% of women occupy C-suite positions in commercial real estate.
36% of real estate firms still lack any female senior executives.
Impact of the Pandemic on Women in Property Management
The COVID-19 pandemic forced millions of women to leave the workforce, impacting gender diversity in property management.
Women increasingly shifted towards hybrid and remote work to maintain a work-life balance.
Challenges Women Face in Property Management and Real Estate
Gender Stereotypes in Construction and Engineering Roles
Women continue to be underrepresented in key real estate-related fields:
Only 26% of licensed architects are women.
Women account for only 11% of the construction workforce.
14% of civil engineers and 28% of IT professionals in real estate are female.
Workplace Barriers
Lack of mentorship opportunities for women.
Limited leadership roles despite high participation in property management.
Gender stereotypes affecting women’s career growth in real estate.
Recommendations for Increasing Female Representation in Property Management
1. Upskilling and Training Programs for Women
Providing women with access to real estate education and certifications.
Encouraging female participation in property management courses.
2. Integrating Technology
Digital platforms can help bridge gender gaps by offering remote property management opportunities.
Encouraging prop-tech startups led by women.
3. Improving Workplace Safety and Gender Sensitivity
Creating safer workplaces to encourage more women to enter real estate.
Conducting gender sensitivity training for employees and management teams.
4. Promoting Leadership Opportunities for Women
Encouraging female leadership in real estate firms.
Implementing mentorship programs to support career growth.
5. Investing in Women-Led Real Estate Ventures
Providing funding for women-led property management firms.
Include women in government real estate contracts.
So, what percentage of property managers are female? In the United States, 62.0 percent of property managers are women. It is one of a few professional areas in real estate where women comprise most of the workforce. However, women still have issues regarding pay, leadership, and stereotypes that relate to gender.
In the United States and elsewhere, the level of female participation in property management continues to remain low. If an increase in training programs, a heftier integration of technology, and greater leadership opportunities were to be offered, these three ingredients may substantially help in minimizing the gender gap in real estate.
With the right policies and workplace culture, women can continue to reshape the property management industry, making it more inclusive and equitable for future generations.
At Proper Hosting, we value diversity and expertise in property management, ensuring that the best professionals—regardless of gender—are managing your investments. Whether you’re looking for a skilled property manager or industry insights, we connect you with qualified experts who fit your needs. Partner with us for reliable and professional property management solutions.
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