Bartender Salary in Washington, DC

Updated on May 09, 2025
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How much does a Bartender make in Washington, DC?

The average salary for a Bartender is $52,439 per year in Washington, DC.

In Washington, DC, bartenders can expect to earn a competitive salary. The average annual salary for a bartender in this area is around $52,439. This figure can vary based on experience and the type of establishment. Bartenders in high-end restaurants or hotels often earn more than those in casual bars or pubs.

The salary range for bartenders in Washington, DC can be quite broad. Entry-level bartenders might start at around $20,000 per year. With a few years of experience, this can increase to about $33,000. More experienced bartenders, especially those with specialized skills, can earn upwards of $92,000 annually. Bartenders who work in busy areas like downtown or near tourist attractions often see higher tips, which can significantly boost their overall earnings.

Bartender jobs in Washington, DC

What are the highest paying cities for a Bartender near Washington, DC?

Bartenders near Washington, DC can find some of the best pay in Silver Spring, MD. This city offers an average salary of $58,768. Bartenders in Falls Church, VA, also earn a strong income, averaging $57,296 per year. These cities provide excellent opportunities for those looking to advance their careers in the hospitality industry.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Bartender jobs near Washington, DC, highlighting Silver Spring, MD with the highest at $58,768 and National Harbor, MD with the lowest at $48,993.
  1. Silver Spring, MD
    Average Salary: $58,768
    In Silver Spring, you can find a vibrant nightlife with many bars and restaurants. Working here offers a chance to meet diverse customers. Popular spots include The Silver Spring Lounge and The Foundry.
    Find Bartender jobs in Silver Spring, MD


  2. Falls Church, VA
    Average Salary: $57,296
    Falls Church boasts a mix of upscale bars and cozy pubs. Bartenders here enjoy a lively atmosphere. Notable places include The Local and The Old Ebbitt Grill.
    Find Bartender jobs in Falls Church, VA


  3. Gaithersburg, MD
    Average Salary: $56,729
    Gaithersburg has a growing nightlife scene. Bartenders can work in trendy bars and enjoy a mix of local and young professionals. Check out The Local Taphouse and The Olde Bar.
    Find Bartender jobs in Gaithersburg, MD


  4. Vienna, VA
    Average Salary: $56,251
    Vienna offers a sophisticated bar scene. Bartenders here serve a refined clientele. Popular venues include The Wine House and The Olde Bar.
    Find Bartender jobs in Vienna, VA


  5. Fairfax, VA
    Average Salary: $52,540
    Fairfax has a bustling nightlife with many bars and clubs. Bartenders here cater to a diverse crowd. Notable spots include The Local Taphouse and The Foundry.
    Find Bartender jobs in Fairfax, VA


  6. Annapolis, MD
    Average Salary: $51,764
    Annapolis offers a charming mix of historic and modern bars. Bartenders enjoy a relaxed yet engaging atmosphere. Popular places include The Local Taphouse and The Olde Bar.
    Find Bartender jobs in Annapolis, MD


  7. Alexandria, VA
    Average Salary: $51,155
    Alexandria has a vibrant bar scene with many historic and trendy spots. Bartenders here enjoy a mix of locals and tourists. Notable places include The Local Taphouse and The Olde Bar.
    Find Bartender jobs in Alexandria, VA


  8. Frederick, MD
    Average Salary: $50,328
    Frederick offers a mix of casual and upscale bars. Bartenders here enjoy a friendly atmosphere. Popular spots include The Local Taphouse and The Olde Bar.
    Find Bartender jobs in Frederick, MD


  9. Bethesda, MD
    Average Salary: $50,126
    Bethesda boasts a lively nightlife with many upscale bars. Bartenders here serve a sophisticated clientele. Notable places include The Local Taphouse and The Olde Bar.
    Find Bartender jobs in Bethesda, MD


  10. National Harbor, MD
    Average Salary: $48,993
    National Harbor offers a bustling nightlife with many high-end bars. Bartenders here cater to a diverse crowd. Popular venues include The Local Taphouse and The Olde Bar.
    Find Bartender jobs in National Harbor, MD

What are the best paying companies for a Bartender in Washington, DC?

Bartenders in Washington, DC, can find excellent job opportunities with top-paying companies. HOWL AT THE MOON offers a competitive salary of $100,000, making it a prime choice for those seeking higher pay. Red Bear Brewing and Dauphine's also provide attractive compensation packages, with annual salaries around $91,000 and $87,500, respectively.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Bartender jobs in Washington, DC, highlighting HOWL AT THE MOON with the highest at $100,000 and MI VIDA Restaurante with the lowest at $63,889.
  1. HOWL AT THE MOON
    Average Salary: $100,000
    HOWL AT THE MOON is a popular nightlife destination in Washington, DC. They offer a vibrant atmosphere with a variety of drink options. Bartenders here enjoy a dynamic work environment and the chance to interact with a lively crowd. HOWL AT THE MOON operates multiple locations in the city.


  2. Red Bear Brewing
    Average Salary: $91,000
    Red Bear Brewing is known for its craft beers and delicious food. Bartenders here create unique drink experiences for patrons. The company operates several locations in Washington, DC, providing a chance to work in different settings.


  3. Dauphine's
    Average Salary: $87,500
    Dauphine's offers a fine dining experience with a focus on French cuisine. Bartenders here craft exquisite cocktails to complement the menu. The restaurant is located in the heart of Washington, DC, providing a sophisticated and elegant work environment.


  4. Iron Gate Restaurant
    Average Salary: $84,667
    Iron Gate Restaurant is a well-known spot for American cuisine and craft cocktails. Bartenders here work in a bustling environment, serving a diverse clientele. The restaurant is located in Washington, DC, offering a vibrant dining experience.


  5. KNEAD Hospitality + Design
    Average Salary: $74,000
    KNEAD Hospitality + Design operates several restaurants in Washington, DC, offering a variety of dining experiences. Bartenders here enjoy a collaborative work environment and the chance to create unique drink menus. The company's locations include popular spots in the city.


  6. Boqueria
    Average Salary: $70,000
    Boqueria is a vibrant market and restaurant that offers a mix of Spanish and American cuisine. Bartenders here craft creative cocktails to match the diverse menu. The restaurant is located in Washington, DC, providing a lively and energetic work atmosphere.


  7. Gatsby
    Average Salary: $70,000
    Gatsby is a chic restaurant known for its modern American cuisine and sophisticated cocktail menu. Bartenders here work in a stylish and elegant setting. The restaurant is located in Washington, DC, offering a refined dining experience.


  8. Truluck's
    Average Salary: $69,000
    Truluck's is a well-known seafood restaurant with a focus on fresh and sustainable ingredients. Bartenders here create delicious seafood-inspired cocktails. The restaurant operates several locations in Washington, DC, providing a variety of work environments.


  9. Clyde's Restaurant Group
    Average Salary: $64,052
    Clyde's Restaurant Group operates several popular restaurants in Washington, DC, offering a range of dining experiences. Bartenders here work in a dynamic and fast-paced environment. The company's locations include well-known spots in the city.


  10. MI VIDA Restaurante
    Average Salary: $63,889
    MI VIDA Restaurante offers a vibrant and lively atmosphere with a focus on Latin American cuisine. Bartenders here craft exciting and flavorful cocktails. The restaurant is located in Washington, DC, providing a fun and energetic work environment.

Currently 7,451 Bartender job openings, nationwide.

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Position
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Bartender
7,451 Job Openings